Blue Skies: An Unique Historical Romance

By Vicky Lynn McNeil

It is 1819 England as seventeen-year-old Lady Jessica Morgan returns home to East Lane Manor after seven years away. Unfortunately, her life has dramatically changed since she left. Jessica has known nothing but darkness since a tragic accident robbed her of her sight.

After her father, Geoffrey, decides to surrender to the hope that she will never regain her sight and introduce her to society, Jessica attends a ball where she is spotted by a ship captain, Vincent Warner, who is immediately captivated by her beauty. When Vincent learns that Jessica is blind, it is too late for him to change his mind. His heart is already lost to her. But when Jessicas sight miraculously returns after a fall, she fears it is only temporary and that her relationship with Vincent is based only on his loyalty to her father. As a chain of dramatic events unfolds, Jessica must harbor a shocking secret that when eventually revealed, will change everything.

In this historical romance, a young woman temporarily blinded from an accident returns home to find love with a handsome ship captain that sets the course of her life in a new direction.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Apr 13, 2018
• ISBN: 9781532039379

Vicky Lynn McNeil

Vicky Lynn McNeil works for an International Union. The mother of two and grandmother of six enjoys taking photographs, writing poetry and other creative works, and driving in the country. Vicky resides in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.

Book preview

Chapter One

T he next morning dawned and Jessica knew it was another bright and sunny day. She could feel the heat on her face as she held it up toward the light of the sun that shone brightly through her window.

After a light breakfast Berta helped her dress in a fine satin gown of emerald green and cream lace, Jessica held Berta’s hand as they descended the stairs to the main entrance of the old manor that had seen many of her ancestors come and go and as they did Berta explained to her all the finery she had on. Jessica could smell that same pungent odor of that oil used on the staircases and walls like it were yesterday. She sensed someone near that smelled the same and it was not Berta, she was certain this was Ian, he always smelled the same, and Jessica remembered a day long ago when she could see. Jessica was descending the long staircase and as she did she ran a finger along the wall; it had just been waxed and was still damp. Her finger made a long crooked line, and after she reached the bottom of the stairs she heard a noise, she looked up and there was Ian re-doing the wall. He looked at her and just shook his head, - never said a word, would never, but his look alone said never do that again

Is that Ian? she said then. It must be.

Ian smiled to himself with remembrance too.

Yes milady, tis I, Ian, he said. I am cleaning the hall, no help for me for a while yet; Tess is off tending her sick mother again so I’ve been doing her lot while we wait her return.

I knew it! I knew it was you, Jessica cried, her smile stretched from ear to ear she was so happy to have conquered just another hurdle. Not so bad for one who is blind, do you think Ian?

Yes milady, said Ian. You do very well,

A new voice joined them just then. Ah there you are Jessica, ready we are then Geoffrey said. Jessica turned a beaming face toward the voice of her father.

I am Papa, and I cannot wait to go.

Ian! Go please and have Davey bring a carriage around, will you? One of our finest, mind you!

Yes Sir said Ian, on my way.

Jessica listened to Ian as he ran to do Geoffrey’s bidding, she could hear his footsteps receding as he hurried along. Her heightened sense of hearing told her he was just about at the stables and Davey would soon come with exactly what her father had ordered. The light touch on her arm from Geoffrey brought her back to reality, her excitement bubbling over again as she took her father’s arm and linked her own with his. Soon they were on their way. So, Jessica, have you thought of what you would like to purchase today? Maybe some material in satins? velvets? In red or in gold?"

Oh Papa, I was thinking maybe we should consult a dressmaker, she would certainly know what colours and types of cloth that would suit me best.

Very well, said Geoffrey. That will be our first task when we get to market.

As they rode along the smell of the forest and streams overwhelmed Jessica. She could almost see the trees, right down to the holes the woodpeckers might have left. For the first time in a long while she was truly happy to be alive, back at home with Papa and Berta and Ian - and back in her own rooms upstairs.

Now if she could only see it all again, everything would be perfect. Jessica sighed then frowned and told herself not to dampen the mood. Instead she smiled and hugged her father’s arm to her once more. The market in the little village near Poplar was abuzz with merchants hawking their wares. Lords and ladies, the rich and the not so rich were out this beautiful spring day. The homeless as well were there with their offspring, all at their agreed posts just waiting for any handout or any chance to lighten someone’s purse. Geoffrey had a firm hold on Jessica’s arm so as not to lose her in the rush of people milling about, moving from stall to stall. Even though Jessica could hear the loud buzz of the many people at the market her father gave her a running account under his breath of all she should be aware of. Jessica was glad to be on the arm of her father guiding her through the hordes of people, for the whole event was a bit overwhelming to her and the sounds were deafening. Yet she anxiously carried on without falter, trusting her father to keep her safe. After securing the aid of the local dressmaker and at the dressmakers urging Geoffrey bought many bolts of cloth in rich white satins and yet more in a pale blue and a warm pink, and laces of all colours. He purchased ribbons and slippers, all at the suggestion of the dressmaker, and soon he had to hire a boy to fetch his driver to come and take the packages for fear of dropping them all onto the dusty ground. As they were leaving the market Geoffrey gave the dressmaker firm instructions that his carriage would pick her up at her shop tomorrow mid-morning, she should come with patterns for fittings and that the carriage would return her back home late in the day.

The woman was delighted to secure such a grand opportunity, she was speechless; she nodded thankfully which was all she could do and then departed without saying a word. Geoffrey did not take exception to her actions; he knew that this undertaking would likely feed her family for months to come and Jessica felt very special as she counted out silently the many items bought this day not even realizing the situation the dressmaker might be in, as for payment, her father always seemed to have an endless supply, and for so much being of it used on her was very flattering indeed. Approaching the waiting carriage Jessica heard her father’s name called in the distance. Geoffrey stopped and he turned them to the sound of someone, a voice that was completely new to Jessica.Morgan, my old friend! Where are you off to in such a rush? With a second glance in that direction he said, maybe there is no rush at all he said curiously. Perhaps you are just trying to hide the fact you have a beautiful young woman on your arm! Come now, speak up, man, or I may just have to question the lady myself!"

Geoffrey, looking rather sheepishly blurted out Brian Guild he said, (then thought to himself,) the last person he wanted to run in to! This is my Daughter, Lady Jessica Morgan, just come home to stay.

So, Brian said, She has returned from school! Why, Geoffrey! Brian said looking quite astonished she looks just like her mother Alicia did just before the two of you married!

Jessica was not surprised at that comment, she had heard Berta say it in hushed tones to her father the minute she stepped down from the coach but she did not fail to note that her father had neglected to mention the type of school he had sent her to. As he took her hand and presented it to his friend, Geoffrey spoke directly to her.

Jessica, allow me to introduce Brian Guild, a great friend of mine and business associate that you may or may not remember. You were so young when we formed an alliance that you probably do not. Here her father’s tone took on a sarcastic note, but I must say he looks quite amusing with his foot lodged so firmly in his mouth! Jessica smiled at her father’s comment,

Yes Papa, she said, I vaguely remember Mr. Guild; He visited often, if I am right.

Yes you remember right, we worked together frequently back then said Brian, Well, Geoffrey, you must bring this lovely young creature with you to my little party! Jessica brightened at the mention of a party.

When is this party Mr. Guild, she said.

It is this Saturday Lady Jessica, Brian replied, your father will enlighten you, he knows all of the details.

With that Brian turned and began walking off with a backwards comment saying.

Till Saturday then.

Something was niggling him, some memory, his mind remembering something about this young lady, it was so long ago but there was something about her, an accident, yes, she was blinded after a fall. He looked back once again and noticed she seemed to be looking his way but not really at him, somewhere past him, was she still blind? No, he thought, could not be, he looked back again and still she stared his way but not at him. Why would Geoffrey not say something he thought? However, Brian was stopped in his tracks when Geoffrey spoke again.

Actually, I had thought to stay home with Jessica, you see she is just getting settled.

Jessica would not hear of it.

But Papa, we must attend! I will not have people hearing about me as the rude Lady Jessica!

What time shall we be there? she said with a smile in his direction."

Eight will be fine milady Brian said, still very confused. Well then, I look forward to seeing you both on Saturday!

I am truly sorry, Papa, if I have got you into something you did not want.

No-no Jessica, all is fine, he said absently. I just worry for you, are you certain you will not be too tired for all of this? These ‘little parties as he calls them are no small affair you know!

How so, Papa? Do you worry I will embarrass you? Do you worry that the dining will be too much for me?

No dear Jessica not at all. Geoffrey put an arm around her shoulder, gave her a little hug. Well he said, for one thing it is a Grand Ball there will probably be at least two or three hundred people in attendance. And it will go on all night, or until every last person has either left, is abed or asleep somewhere. His words could not temper her excitement.

Oh Papa, it all sounds so exciting! Please do not worry for me, I will be fine, though I do wish there were time to have a dress made from some of the fine cloths you have bought for me today. She put a finger to her top lip then thinking, I do have one dress though, that I am told is lovely, and I am certain it would be suitable for just such an occasion. I will have Berta help me and then come down and walk about for you shall I? You will know, I am certain, if it would be suitable for a ball.

That evening as Jessica descended the stairs, she knew she was presentable; she could hear it, the intake of breath coming from her father where he stood waiting for her. She was certain then that this was the dress to wear. Geoffrey knew this day would come and that is why he had brought out Alicia’s jewel box, he put it into Jessica’s hands and carefully wrapped her fingers around the box as he led her to the library. Sitting down with her there he felt shaky, his eyes were misted with tears and he thanked the heavens that at this point his Daughter could not see him.

What is this box, Papa? She asked as she ran her hands over its contours.

Geoffrey smiled sadly; it was your mother’s, Jessica. Geoffrey almost choked on the words. It holds the jewels that were most precious to her, and now they are yours.

As it was opened the memories flooded Geoffrey’s mind as he looked at the trinkets and jewels he had given to his only love, even the occasion, Alicia’s reactions, it was all there, as fresh as if it were yesterday, his voice cracked and strained now as he said.

I - I have been saving this for just such an occasion he finally stammered.

Oh, Papa, thank you so much for saving them for me as she raised her arms so he could hug her to him tightly! Could you please pick out a nice necklace and pair of earrings for the Ball?

I will do that now, he said. Now, go on with Berta to your rooms and take that gown off before it is too worn to wear!

Berta helped her to her rooms with little effort as Jessica seemed more independent as each day passed and seemed to know her way instinctively. Even as they left the library, Jessica left first, and Berta just turned to look at Geoffrey, they both shrugged their shoulders and Berta hurried to follow close behind as they made their way from the library.

Jessica awoke the morning of the ball with a start, she sat bolt upright in her bed as she called out for her maid.

Berta! Berta! What is the time? Is it late? I must get started, get Janie to ready a bath please!

Berta clucked her tongue as she bustled into the room. Settle down, little whirlwind, there is time a plenty!

But Berta; I want to look just right! Oh, please, won’t you help?

I will not, said Berta, not until you take the time to break your fast. Without a proper meal you won’t have the strength to finish one dance.

She was so excited but still, she checked herself and realised that though she was supposed to be a woman grown, she sounded like a child at her first party, but it was her first party. Still she had to act like a woman if she was to be accepted as one. She immediately changed her actions and tone of voice to one of a calm demeanour and patience. She was transformed into a demure young woman simply in need of assistance to ready herself. However, those actions lasted about five minutes. Jessica tried to be calm but could not help herself. She had forgotten all about dancing until now, and the excitement was too much to bear.

Oh, Berta can you teach me to dance, please? To get along at least, for I have not danced a step in my life.

So after a hearty brunch they attempted a simple waltz. It was hard for Jessica to relax and allow herself to be whisked around the library as Berta hummed some ancient tune. They truly looked quite the pair. However, feeling some resistance but conquering the dance steps Jessica realized she had to allow one to lead, after all, whether she could see or not the man always led the dance. Jessica lay on her bed to rest before dressing as ordered by Berta, thoroughly convinced she would be unable to sleep when she was so excited. However, the next thing she knew, Berta was tapping on the door saying her bath would be coming soon. Berta was just finishing Jessica’s hair when Geoffrey knocked then entered looking as handsome as ever, or so Berta exclaimed as she described his attire to Jessica.

Jessica reached out and Geoffrey stood close so she could touch his coat front. She felt his face and shoulders, the material of his shirt and suit, his chest and down one arm to his hand, and then she brought it to her cheek as she quietly spoke.

Very handsome indeed Father. Jessica was so excited she could not stop talking as they rode along, however, some hours later as the carriage pulled up in front of Hedgly Mansion she was at a loss for words. Jessica felt the tension in her father’s actions as he helped her down. She could sense something was amiss.

Papa, what is wrong? she asked nervously.

No, no, it is nothing my dear, Geoffrey said under his breath. Nothing is wrong; merely a few people outside are waiting to enter, and you seem to have caught their eye.

Oh, I do not think so Papa! They do not even know me. It is you that has caught their eye I suspect, for Berta said you looked dashing tonight and I felt it for myself.

Once inside Jessica could sense a hush descending over the room, she suddenly felt shy, certain that she was now the center of attention. For all the times she had wanted to be noticed, she now felt she would like nothing more than to fade into the crush of people. Any time someone new would enter the great hall there would be a deafening quiet in order for all to hear exactly who the new entry was. After Geoffrey and Jessica were announced it seemed the roar of commotion continued again and it was to Jessica’s relief, they were just a part of the crowd once more, she knew the majority of the people at the ball must be gathered together in this room for she could feel the closeness and the many voices, goblets clinking, dresses swishing, and with it all Jessica began to feel a little faint. She was overwhelmed and for just a moment she felt thankful she was unable to see the vast crowd around her. Jessica did wish she could see her dress though. She wore a sapphire blue satin gown, cut low to show her shape, and tapered close at the waist. She could feel its form-fitting shape, but if she only she could see herself just for tonight. And if she could only see, she would have noticed a pair of blue eyes watching her intently from the balcony above.

Chapter Two

V incent had been watching this beauty since she entered the hall. He had been talking to another man when saw by the mesmerized look on that man’s face, he knew that someone of interest had entered the hall, and he dared not miss it. That was surely not her betrothed, must be her father or an uncle. She looked to be no more than eighteen or nineteen to him. He did not care how old she was or who she was, she had to be old enough to withstand a good tumble, or she would not be here. A Ball was no place for an untried child, and whoever that was with her brought her here knowing full well what men would think upon seeing her. Vincent only knew that he had to meet her. He wanted her, and he wanted her tonight, not after long, frustrating months of courting.

He wasn’t a man to wait. He stood there on the balcony, watching and waiting for just the right moment. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest. The little vixen would give him a good chase no doubt, but he would surely be the victor and she, by the look of her, would love the outcome just as much as he would, he surmised. It was no wonder that all eyes seemed to rest upon her, for in all the ports he docked he had never seen such beauty. He could not help but wonder why she clutched so tightly to the older man at her side though, almost as if she were afraid. It could not be her first coming out; if it were she would have been presented officially. No, she must be deep in thought, he decided, probably wondering which of these fools’ hearts to break tonight. Perhaps she was a temptress, enjoying the games she played with her many admirers.

A cool breeze blew in through an open window and played with Vincent’s fair hair, making him look ever more the rogue, a title he cherished and enjoyed. With his black breeches and shirt, and standing as one of the tallest men in attendance, he turned just as many heads as she did, though not always for the same reasons. His decision to make this port his last stop before turning around was a wise one for sure. It was time to get down there and finally make some kind of move before she disappeared into the crowd and possibly swept away on another man’s arm. Vincent’s eyes never left her. He descended the stairs that led him towards her, and all the while he watched intently. As he noticed the man with her walk away he was elated. Now was his chance, and he approached with expertise, skill and determination, not unlike the hunter bearing down on upon its prey.

And then there he was at her side, Jessica was startled by this intruder, as she hoped it was her father she knew it could not be, the aroma this person gave was one of - the sea?- yes and leather, this was not her father but certainly a man.

My apologies, my lady, I did not mean to startle you," he said smoothly as Jessica visibly started. I could have sworn you watched me come down from the balcony above as I approached you.

He could see that she reddened and he wondered where that had come from. He was certain now he had pegged her just right. She was a young woman well aware of her attributes and knew precisely how to use them. In short, she was a heart breaker, and a flirtatious tease. He was certain too that this reddening was a ruse to reel him in, but her games would not work on him. He wanted one thing from her and then he would be gone, likely to never see her again. That was his plan, and he fully intended to put it into action.

Are you enjoying yourself Sir? She said with a smile as she turned his way yet not really facing him.

Vincent Warner he supplied swiftly and you are?

"Lady Jessica Morgan."

Replied the man behind him who had accompanied her, a cutting edge to his voice that let Vincent know, to his deep frustration, that his presence would be watched and that this young lady was not to be trifled with. Vincent now realized that this young woman - after all - was a lady in every sense of the word. He was startled, disgusted with himself at the grave mistake he had made, he had failed to notice that the man had returned to where they stood as well. The man extended his hand politely, despite the fire in his eyes, and introduced himself.

I am Geoffrey Morgan, Lady Jessica’s father.

Vincent was ashamed of himself for not being more observant and realizing this fact well before he got to her side. He must be losing his touch he surmised. He accepted the outstretched hand and shook it vigorously.

Vincent Warner, Sir, of the Rover, he said politely. I pulled in early this morning and thought I would stay a while before turning back.

The older man’s eyes narrowed.

But I thought James White was captain of that ship Geoffrey commented

He was Sir; well, he said - still is. His wife took ill and he stays at home tending to her needs these days, but he hopes to return to the Rover when her health improves.

Oh, I see said Geoffrey, well then, if you are in need of lodgings until you leave you must come out to the East Lane Manor to be our guest in Mr. White’s stead; James always did, whenever he could, at least. I would not mind having a look at what you carry as well, if there is anything left to see, Vincent - may I call you Vincent? Yes, of course, please do, Vincent replied.

Well then Geoffrey asked when would you suppose I could come to the Rover to see what you have.

"Vincent smiled at the question, tomorrow we could make the trip if you like; you could take one of your men with a wagon just in case you see something that catches your eye, something you may like to purchase.

However, getting back to the subject of lodgings, I will be here for a few days more and I would like to take you up on your offer if I may, Vincent went on to add my cabin lacks nothing in comfort really, but it would be nice to sleep on solid ground for a change."

Geoffrey smiled. Yes, I can imagine it would. Well, it seems they are calling us to dine now, so come, you must dine with my daughter and me, Captain Warner.

Vincent smiled too, for his thoughts had turned to skipping the meal entirely and whisking the man’s daughter away to his bed instead, but none of his innermost thoughts showed through in his polite acceptance.

Of course, Vincent commented with simplicity I would be delighted to dine with such a pleasant couple.

Geoffrey seated Jessica between himself and Vincent. The polite conversation focused on James White, the Rover, her cargo and the like, but Vincent found it hard to keep track of it. His mind was reeling with thoughts of the young beauty beside him, the woman he craved. His eyes seemed to take on a life of their own, for he had to keep checking himself and correcting his actions as they seemed to wander towards the Lady Jessica whenever his attention slipped from her father. Vincent felt foolish, like a young man smitten for the first time. This feeling was foreign to him, but he found that he liked it. He hadn’t felt like this in years, for his whole life had been devoted to shipping, trading and selling, yet now here he was at a dining table with this young woman he felt suddenly besotted with. As the minutes passed he went from just wanting to bed her to feeling a genuine interest much to his surprise.

He couldn’t help but wonder about the extent of the control her father had over her; why, she didn’t even look his way once during the dinner. Yet despite her apparent shyness, he felt unable to tear his eyes away from her.

She puzzled him immensely with such a face as hers, why hide it? He wondered why she always kept her face down or toward her father, away from any direct eye contact with him or anyone else in the room entirely, and as the dinner drew to a close he became ever more intrigued. Vincent found his lust for her had become coupled with a sense of caring and concern, for he was now convinced this little beauty had a real problem. Was she afraid of her father? Geoffrey did not seem the type to be a tyrant, but if not that, then what? He was determined to find out. He found himself pouring wine for Jessica and could not help but see the crimson flush that crept across her face and the relaxed expression she now wore even in her efforts to keep her face averted from all others. He thought better of filling the goblet and stopped short. A smile flitted across Geoffrey’s face. Vincent caught it and knew he had done the right thing. Jessica leaned forward in her seat. Do either of you men find it a little too warm in here?

Vincent smiled a devilish smile for this was what he had been waiting for, but just as he was about to offer to take Jessica outside for some fresh air, Geoffrey cut in saying he would take her to the gardens. As they left the dining hall Geoffrey called back to Vincent stating that they would meet again in the ballroom, nodding in agreement, Vincent gave Geoffrey a sly grin, knowing he had been duped but not letting on at how frustrated he was, on the inside he was seething mad yet you would never know it by the look he wore.

It won’t happen again he promised himself. Thinking back on the evening so far Vincent realized that the man did have a tight hold on his daughter; he was certain now that she feared her father. He began to dislike Geoffrey Morgan, and started to wonder what he had gotten himself into. He could walk away, of course, but already he was coming to realize that was impossible. Upon entering the vast Ballroom for any sign of Jessica he scanned it for them, but found nothing so decided to wait where she had been standing earlier.

I thought perhaps the two of you had departed without a word, Vincent said with a smile when they finally came towards him. I was beginning to wonder if I was poor company!

No, nothing like that Vincent Geoffrey said. Just a long walk to clear the head, if you get my meaning Geoffrey’s eyes rolling toward Jessica. Vincent gave a knowing nod and glanced at her. Still she did not look up at him, but as he tilted his head to the side, a young man who had been watching them at dinner approached with a bow.

I was wondering if the young lady would like to dance, Sir, he said to Geoffrey.

Vincent noticed Jessica as she turned toward the voice to answer, but Geoffrey swept her away saying she had promised her father this one. Her movements seemed so calculated, almost rehearsed. What was it about her actions? There was something he was certain he was missing."

The young man looked at Vincent, shrugged and walked away. As Vincent watched him recede, he remembered noticing the young man at dinner, and he did not like the feeling he experienced toward him as he witnessed the blatant wanting in the young man’s eyes. All he wanted to say was that Jessica was his and to be on his way, but he knew that Jessica was not his; not yet, at least. He swore to himself that one way or another he would have the next dance with her, whether Geoffrey approved or not. Damn! Vincent did not quite know if he liked the turn his feelings were taking, yet he felt the burning need to capture the lovely creature and take her away on the ship, far away from this masterful domineering father of hers. Vincent noted how she smiled in her father’s direction; standing a few yards away he caught his breath, even though he wasn’t the fortunate subject of that smile.

You do well together, Sir he said when the waltz ended and they drew near. Vincent was eager to draw their attention back to him.

Thank you said Geoffrey, I was thinking that perhaps you would like to have some punch Jessica I know I would.

Oh yes, please Jessica replied, I would love some.

Vincent spoke up then saying," Shall I go for some then?

Oh no, Vincent, I will go, I need the walk.

And suddenly they were alone. Vincent thought better of waiting and missing his chance.

A waltz started up and Vincent looked to Jessica, not wanting to startle her again he lightly placed his hand at the small of her back, leaned in and said in a low voice.

"Shall we take a turn on the floor he said? Vincent did not wait for an answer, he simply began the waltz.

Oh, yes! That would be lovely said Jessica, feeling the slight push at the small of her back. This will be only the second dance of my life she said shyly.

Vincent found himself literally pulling Jessica onto the dance floor. He almost felt guilty but he could not let this chance to dance with her pass him by; he wanted her, had to show her that there was more to life than just her father. As he slipped one hand into hers and rested the other against her back, he felt an unfamiliar tugging at his heart. For once in his life, everything felt right as he swept her up into the crowd and around the room amongst the dancing couples. Vincent was in a world of his own; he could smell her hair, its scent so inviting, the softness of her skin, her slight frame. She was all woman, and all beauty. He had never felt more complete, or so certain of what he wanted. Vincent was enjoying himself so much he neglected to notice that Jessica had stumbled slightly and he noticed only when she anxiously tapped his shoulder.

I fear Sir, you are dancing too fast for me she jumped in quickly then and said, if you slow down a touch I could be ready for your next move, a note of anxiety in her voice. Please keep in mind that I am unused to dancing.

It took Vincent a moment to come out of his dream world.

Forgive me, my lady.

As he slowed his steps, he could feel her relax and he looked down at her.

Jessica, he said quietly. Look at me, please.

She flushed, still not meeting his stare.

You know, she said, changing the subject, this pace is much better to dance to.

Vincent interrupted her, getting very frustrated,

Jessica, please! Why do you change the subject? Am I so unsightly to look upon?

He could not understand why she kept avoiding eye contact; he held her chin and brought her face up to his. As he did she closed her eyes.

"Look at my face he said through gritted teeth, please, he lowered his voice now, regaining some composure yet realizing they had stopped dancing. Jessica opened her eyes then, now said Vincent

Do I look so bad?

Oh no! No! You do not, Vincent, far from it. It is just, well this is my first ball and I suppose I am a just little shy."

It was a poor excuse, but Vincent pushed no more, for he did not even know why he cared so much and still she did not really look at him. Chastising himself for his show of attentiveness, he wondered why this young woman had such an effect upon him. Even when she did look at him there was nothing in her look, no interest there, just a blank stare, no reaction at all; however, his reaction to her was painfully clear, for it was one of care, compassion, wanting, a whole mixture of feelings that came from deep within Vincent’s soul. There would be time; tomorrow he would solve this mystery. For now, all he wanted was to enjoy the intimacy of dancing with her. He held her close and kept it slow, simply rejoicing at the feel of her in his arms, her scent, her softness. When the dance ended, Vincent found he was all but holding Jessica up. And he was certain they had danced far too close for the sake of propriety. She had melted into his arms, and to his delight seemed content to stay there. He had to gently turn her around to leave the floor, and as he did he noticed her face was as flushed as his now felt. She had a crimson blush to her cheeks. Surely her father would not approve, but as they walked back to where Geoffrey stood waiting, she seemed to come back to reality.

Well, Geoffrey said, did you enjoy the dance? Are you alright Jessica, was the dance too taxing? Are you overtired? Maybe you should sit a while.

Vincent could see that Geoffrey was not amused that he took such liberties without asking his permission first. He wondered at the concern Geoffrey was showing for his daughter, for he felt that Geoffrey was treating her as though she was an invalid. Vincent cut in then stating that the dance was a light waltz and he was certain he did not overtax Jessica. Vincent was certain she felt the same way as he did now. He could sense it. He knew that they were both experiencing that same overpowering attraction; however, for the life of him he could not understand what it was that drew him to her. No doubt, she was beautiful to look upon, but he had met many women that could turn his head. It had to be her innocence, it was a rare quality indeed compared to the women he usually met. Geoffrey seemed to soften then and began talking with his daughter.

Jessica, my dear, you looked a vision out there, really you did.

Their host approached them, and to Vincent’s frustration, he seemed to know Geoffrey and Jessica. Vincent reluctantly stepped back from her side.

Jessica, you remember meeting Brian Guild of course, our host for this evening? He has come to bid you good evening.

Yes father, I remember him.

Vincent had to hold himself back as Brian reached out and took Jessica’s hand in his, then raised it to his lips.

And by her strained countenance, so did she. Vincent could see that Jessica’s smile did not reach her eyes and she kept her head bowed low, not looking at any of them directly. He felt a fierce stab of jealousy that he could not express, afraid to offend the night’s host. Fool that he was if he meant to have Jessica for his own, he feared he would be in for a fight. Geoffrey had taken Jessica for another turn on the floor and that was when Brian spoke up.

I can see you are quite taken by Lady Jessica, Sir …? He stopped, clearly waiting for Vincent to supply his name.

Vincent Warner, Sir. I presently Captain the ship called the Rover. Until James White’s wife is in better spirits, that is.

Vincent could not stand the man already. He was a slithering snake and from what he could see, an opportunist. The kind that waited for his chance to strike at a person who may be down, someone’s financial ruin or even an unsuspecting young woman. Then Vincent thought about himself. Wasn’t he going to ravish the young lady himself if he could? He grimaced. Yes, so he intended, until he realized she was just that, an innocent, an untried young lady.

Oh, said Brian so you are the reason I do not see James here tonight!

"Correct, Sir. It was my man Eli who came today to take your order, and I who received your invitation.

I see, said Brian. Well, certainly you are welcome Vincent. I do hope you are enjoying yourself Yes I am Vincent said, immensely. Do you host parties of this size this often Sir? Vincent asked, gesturing to the ballroom at large.

My dear man, I love these parties, and so do my guests, it is entertainment for everyone in this dull and dreary world we live in, said Brian.

Yes I suppose that makes perfect sense, said Vincent. Tell me said Vincent, if you would not mind, Is the Lady Jessica Morgan new to the area?"

Sir, I daresay you have been talking with these people all evening yet you know nothing about her you say? I do not believe this Sir, I think you either play with my sensibilities or you are not very astute. Well, I will tell you this, he said in hushed tones, I know all about her, so you can stop pretending with me if that is the game you play! If, however it is not your intention then Mr. Warner I fear you have been made quite the fool this night!

Vincent was entirely at a loss for answers as Mr. Guild blithely continued.

I do wonder though; she can dance, eat properly, and literally never stumbles, well, at least no more than any other woman with all the layers of clothing they have in their way. She does remarkably well for having the affliction of being blind; do you not think, Mr. Warner?

Lost for words, Vincent simply whirled on the spot and walked out to the gardens. He needed the air to calm him.

He opened his shirt a little after leaving to allow himself some space as a small breeze made its way through his shirtfront and helped to cool his torso a little. He spied a small bench and sat, his knees threatening to buckle, for he did not believe he had ever in his life been duped so cleanly. He could