The Rake's End

By Becky Lunt

James Creighton is a notorious rake amongst the ton, though his indiscretions are not as entertaining as they once were. His life changes after just one meeting and boredom is not the problem anymore.

Matilda Morgan is in desperate circumstances. An orphan left in the care of a relative she does not know or like, she is left with little hope of escape.

When the pair meet, an unlikely bond is formed but can Tilly overcome her fear of the social disparity between them to find happiness?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Becky Lunt
• Release date: Sep 12, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005542450

Becky Lunt

My name is Rebecca but I prefer Becky. I could start waffling on about my work and life but that would bore you just as much as it does me so I will just tell you that my imagination is awesome.... Come and get lost with me in my dreams.

Book preview

The Rake"s End

Copyright 2021 Becky Lunt

Published by Becky Lunt at Smashwords

Smashwords Edition License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only and may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this ebook with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you are reading this ebook and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your enjoyment only, then please return to Smashwords.com or your favourite retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

The main characters in this ebook are fictitious.

Any resemblance to any person either alive or dead is purely coincidental.

Table of contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

About Becky

Other books by Becky

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Creighton Family Tree

William Creighton

Gavin Andrew James Lizbeth

married married

Alice Dewent Charles Morrison

Daughter: Alicia Son: Percival

Daughter: Charlotte

Chapter One

Matilda Morgan answered the unexpected summons with a growing sense of foreboding. Important men had been calling for the past four weeks to speak privately with her guardian and after each visit, the man that had been entrusted to care for her had appeared to change. And not for the better!

He still bellowed like a butcher, threw small projectiles found close to hand when in a mood and spent an inordinate amount of time frightening her for no reason but after her eighteenth birthday last month, he’d also added drinking to excess, gambling with the local squires and belting the poor house staff to his list of despicable qualities. 

The parlour door was open and Tilly could hear the impatient pacing on the other side. The squeak of leather shoes punctuated each step her guardian took. Delay would not help either of them so she knocked briefly upon the wooden frame before entering. 

Mr Peterson? She paused beside the high-backed armchair she preferred to sit upon when alone and looked squarely at the overweight man before her. One could never have confused Grenville Peterson as being a gentleman but since she’d been in his care, he had at least had the funds to dress as one. You wished to speak with me?

I did Matilda, most urgently so I thank you for your prompt response. He spoke politely, as though she’d really had a choice and the sense of foreboding increased. Her mother’s only living relative had never been this polite to her, even when his friends had come calling.

How may I be of service sir? Thankfully her voice did not wavier with the unease she was feeling as she despised the idea that this man knew she feared him.

I do not need your assistance my dear, I have been reminded … and rightly so … of a condition within your father’s will. Peterson made a show of acknowledging the other occupant of the comfortably furnished room. Tilly had not realised her guardian’s latest visitor was still there. The second man, smartly dressed in a dark grey coat that determined him a professional man, snapped the folds of a leather-bound folder together. The noise echoed about the parlour. She was very familiar with this man as the lawyer was her father’s friend for many years and his smile was a welcome one.

I am sorry Mr Deakin, I was not aware of the particulars to my father’s will. What condition? Her eyes went from one to the other waiting for an answer.

Upon your eighteenth birthday, funds were released from the trust to begin husband-hunting. Peterson responded, still polite but his tone had changed, as though the need to be polite was grating upon his nerves and he was struggling to hide his discontent. I’ve tasked Deakin here, to rent us a suitable residence in London for your come-out season. The extra funds will be available at that time. 

The prospect of escaping this life did nothing to appease the foreboding for she knew her qualities well and none of them was likely to lead to a wanted match, but she had a part to play while company was present. 

You wish us to go to London? Tilly’s palm lifted subconsciously to her hair.

Yes, we will leave as soon as a place can be contracted.

But … London is so far away sir.

Indeed it is, Peterson responded, but as you’ve not attracted a suitor hereabouts, London society is your only chance now.

She needed no reminders of how the local men found her looks and personality sadly lacking in a wife. Her hair colour was often compared to the fiery pits of hell with the strands a vibrant red flame and many were convinced her temperament was from Satin himself because of the ‘Devils Hair’ but nothing could be further from the truth … if one could be convinced to find out.

What would happen if I am not lucky enough to find a husband?

If you do not find one, I have been instructed to do so on your behalf, Peterson stated. That was most likely the cause of her trepidation as her guardian had never acted well on her behalf.

Were there any other conditions of my father’s will?

Not that you need to know of Matilda, now run along and see to the beginning of your packing. It would be best to take all your personal belongings with us for it is unlikely you will return here. Let us men take care of everything else.

Recognising that nothing of import would be discussed in her presence, Tilly dipped a quick curtsey before quitting the room. She’d developed a certain sense of peace and tranquillity here in Cornwall, after arriving from the Caribbean some three years ago. Her parents’ death had been a great blow but being forced into the guardianship of a stranger that hated her had been a greater one. Peterson had been nominated as he was the last of her mother’s kin but she could never recall a moment her mother or father mentioned him. From the time of her safe delivery into Peterson’s custody, Matilda Morgan had known her chances of a happy life had disappeared. The local squires had sent their sons to assess her as potential suitors but when they viewed her flame hair, freckled face and larger body shape, she was left with little doubt anyone would take her to wife. At some point, she’d accepted that she’d never have what her parents had had and was in some measure grateful for it. In her limited experience, those that loved never lived long enough to relish in it. 

Both her parents had died before reaching forty with only fifteen or sixteen years together, in Tilly’s mind that was not nearly long enough to see and do all this world had to offer. She had accepted that spinsterhood was her fate and was quietly biding her time until reaching her majority where she would have gained complete control over the trust left to her. Sadly now, that may not be an option if she or Peterson would find a husband so quickly.

She made her way to her bedroom where Tilly made a quick assessment of which of her belongings she would take. There was very little left of her parents’ items except for the few titbits of jewellery. The furniture had been left in the West Indies villa for her father’s business partner and his pretty wife but the jewellery and her father’s collection of books had travelled across the ocean with her. For this journey though, only the jewellery would accompany her. She may not return to Welby Hall but the books could be forwarded to wherever her new home would be. Upon searching the gowns hanging within her wardrobe, there was little that would be suitable for London society but if funds were being released then the cost of a new wardrobe would hardly be reflected upon. In the end, the instructions given to the maid were very quick and Tilly left her to them.

Oh, what a vision! The unexpected voice had James turning instantly, his cheeks reddened with embarrassment. The little babe in his arms gurgled happily despite the interruption. The dissolute rakehell James Creighton showing signs of cluckiness. Lizbeth Morrison, Countess of Thornton, laughed. His sister’s untimely arrival ended the moment of pure bliss he’d spend with his little niece. His nephew Percy was still sound asleep but little Charlotte had been fretting as he’d walked past the nursery and he simply could not resist the call to cuddle the bundle.

No one would believe you, LizzyB.

Perhaps not, but it would still make an interesting story for all those hopeful mammas out there.

You would never be so cruel would you?

Again, his sister laughed. No, you know me too well. Though it makes me happy to see you like this.

Like what?

All doe-eyed James. She danced in, her blue silk evening gown swishing about her legs. After her own adventures recently, it was good to have her safely installed under the family roof again. The new Countess could have chosen to stay with her husband’s family in Mayfair but for this week at least, she’d returned home. Oh my little princess, what has upset you tonight?

She was not upset Lizzy, just fretting a little and I did not want her to wake Percy since he is not well.

Thank you for that, the little bundle passed from one set of arms to the other. Papa wished to let you know it is time to go.

I would like to know how he got suckered into accepting this engagement, James grumbled. The Gibson’s are not a part of our social circle.

What is the matter, James? Lizzy asked, laying Charlotte back into her crib. You are not normally such a snob; not so discriminating.

Oh, I do not know, I guess I am just bored. The pair walked into the plush carpeted hallway. Pay me no mind, a good card game will have me set to rights. James flashed his famous smile hoping he could hide his deep melancholy from Lizbeth. As the new countess under perhaps scandalous circumstances, she had her own problems to worry about. 

I have no doubt you will find what you are looking for James. She responded, the gentle squeeze of her hand upon his arm told him she’d not been fooled.

At the bottom of the stairway, they joined the rest of their family, already waiting with hats and gloves in place. All were immaculately dressed though his elder brother Gavin still showed signs of his heartache in the worry lines that now graced his face. No one would have the tastelessness to say anything openly though, as Alice had been murdered just over a year ago. Technically, Gavin could have cried off with still being in mourning but whatever the Gibson’s held over their father had been enough for Gavin to comply too. 

I know you all think me addled, William spoke before the front doors opened, but there is much I owe Brian Gibson and this show of support is all he has asked in return. 

You have asked so little of us yourself papa, we are happy to do this with you. Lizbeth answered gently, the maid helped her into her expensive fur coat, I am just sorry Andrew and Charlie could not be here also.

Yes, it is a shame they had to attend the regimental awards, William laughed, being awarded the Prince’s medal of bravery is an everyday occurrence, why would one willingly sit through such guff when the alternative is a game of cards at the Gibsons.

The small close-knit family chuckled at the irony. Now in all seriousness, I do thank you for this.

William’s eyes darkened with the heavy sigh he expelled. Perhaps, James reflected, he’d have to dig into this unusual relationship a little further. The family must be protected at all costs. 

James accepted his hat and gloves and the party of four quit the prestigious townhouse to enter the waiting carriage. The horses were given the command to move as they’d settled back against the comfortable, well-padded squabs. 

Is it likely we will know others in attendance papa? He asked casually, his gloved fingers scratched the skin behind his ear. The length of hair had become a nuisance of late with the warming weather. 

I am not privy to the list of invitees but it would be natural that Gibson has others of our acquaintance indebted to him.

That sounds rather ominous, Lizbeth said, any other woman of her breeding would very likely be in hysterics by now whereas Lizbeth was nothing like it. He admired his little sister so much. 

The carriage ride was short and full of merry conversation despite the misgivings of their invitation. They arrived at the small but stylish home of Brian Gibson and his charming new wife Elsie. The few hired footmen made entrance easy, lighting the carpeted path from the road to the door. Though the Gibson’s were not of the first class, from one glance James could tell they’d spared no expense in hosting this evening. The host and hostess greeted them all as though long-time friends. 

William, I am happy to see you and your young brood.

As I am happy we are here Brian. The pair shook hands, you remember my eldest Gavin of course, and then James. 

Hands shook again.

And this is my daughter Lizbeth lately married to the Earl of Thornton, Charles Morrison. William completed the introductions.

Yes, and recently a happy mother I hear. I offer my congratulations my lady. The older man returned, this is my wife Elise and we hope to be blessed with the same good fortune in the near future.

Very happy to make your acquaintance Mrs Gibson, Lizbeth offered her slender hand to the cheerful blonde standing beside Gibson. Her ringlets danced around her nicely shaped shoulders. James recognised the pretty face from last season’s diamonds. This marriage was certainly not as advantageous as the chit’s family had hoped for.

He’d attempted a light flirtation himself … until the M word had been bandied about.

Then, James had run the other way and found another girl to whisper sweet romantic words to. He followed the others into a room set out with green-clothed tables. He quickly snatched a glass of wine from a passing waiter and then settled in for a rather dull evening. 

Tilly followed Peterson into the brightly lit house. It was her first official engagement for the season after her new wardrobe had been assembled. The fashionable Madame had defied her guardian’s repeated demands for something showy; noticeable; unsuited for a young debutante to produce this exquisitely designed plain gown and many others like it. Her hands nervously straightened the hanging folds of material at her waistline. 

Welcome Peterson, may I introduce my wife Elsie. Peterson was greeted heartily by an elderly stranger though clearly, the men knew each other as Peterson bowed forward and his hand thumped his chest theatrically above his heart.

Madam, my ward and I are extremely grateful for your invitation. The hand left his chest and waved briefly in Tilly’s direction. She did note that he’d not actually given her name and felt the insult keenly in such company. Their hostess offered a tentative smile.

It was our pleasure to include you both in our humble little party sir, it is our very first as a married couple. Mrs Gibson stated, her soft words carried the depth of her nerves for the success of this one night.

Tilly studied the unlikely couple as casually as she dared, the man was old enough to be the girl’s father … if not grandfather. Mr Gibson was heavy set while his wife was petite and fragile … the very image of what she imagined as the perfect woman. Was this match what the girl had always dreamed of or something less … romantic?

She was propelled into the main room set for various card games by her guardian’s hand in the small of her back, the touch sent shivers down her spine as it was too familiar … too intimate.

It’s my intention you remain by my side Matilda, I’ll not have you making a nuisance of yourself or embarrassing me. 

Tilly glanced about the room, it was medium in size, not nearly as large as the drawing-room of their rented townhouse but with all the tables spaced about it seemed even smaller. There was not much room to freely move about even if one had a mind too. Another point of notice was currently the room contained mostly elder occupants of which she’d have nothing in common with should she have wished to mingle.

It was an easy demand to accept. As you wish sir.

It was a strange event for her to be making her come out but Tilly followed Peterson to one of the tables that had expected a final participant and then she turned her mind off. Peterson had held many card nights at home since more of her trust had been released and all she needed on these nights was to keep the decanters full so it had been easy for her to begin to imagine herself elsewhere. That was easy to do for Tilly’s imagination was the only quality of herself she valued. 

James was struggling to hold the boredom at bay. Hand after hand, table after table, the night dragged on amongst the middling class company. The pots were small, typical of polite but not particularly flushed society but his father had asked this one commitment of him so James plastered the polite smile on his face and studied the new hand. He owed his father another hour of this tedium and then he’d take his leave. There would be more fun to have at one of his clubs. But then again, he thought, a little smile lifting his cheeks beyond the one he offered his opponents, he may stay a little longer. The room suddenly got more interesting as the little dove flittered in behind a stranger. The gent sat heavily on a chair and proceeded to ignore her and she stood silently at his shoulder, her eyes drawn to a place far, far away. If they were married or engaged, there was no sign of it upon finger so James guessed she was his daughter. Anything else was abhorrent to him for some reason. 

Though, little dove did not seem to describe her overly well.

She was not a diamond of the highest class but his gaze would not be turned. The soft rose gown hugged her curves closely and his arms suddenly ached to do so themselves. And oh, those curves, larger than the normal debutant, were so inviting. James lowered his eyes momentarily to his cards, not an overly strong hand so he added a few coins to the small pile in the middle before searching again for his distraction. 

There she was, right where she’d been before, her face relaxed as she gazed into nothingness. 

What was she thinking?

What caused that lovely little smile and glow in her hazel eyes?

It certainly wasn’t enjoyment at watching the goings-on around her.

Hah! The sudden bark returned his wandering mind to the game. The cards had not helped him this time and the gentleman across the table won the pot. 

Well played Gardner, far too skilled for me this evening. James threw his cards down and excused himself. He needed a stiff drink so he made his way to where an array of crystal decanters sat on a buffet. Helping himself to a generous measure, he noticed his dove and her companion were missing. 

Why was he disappointed?

James had no idea why this feeling of loss was so strong, but the three fingers of scotch wasn’t enough to quell it. His brother joined him, Gavin’s hair mused from the repeated running of fingers through it. 

The company’s as low as my game this eve, Gavin greeted, how’s your luck holding up?

Not so bad until the last.

I saw, you seemed distracted.

I was, James admitted with a casual shrug of his broad shoulders. Do you know the fellow that had his companion standing at his shoulder?

The plump one?

Yes, James glanced about again but they were still missing from the room. 

His name is Peterson or some such. Gibson gave the introduction but I’d not paid that much attention since we are hardly likely to cross paths in our normal circle. The chit is his ward on her come out season but I do not recall he said her name.

James listened to the brief description, the pair were clearly not of his class for the gent was a stranger and his jacket of good but not quality cloth. Trade?

I do not think so but these days one can never be certain, Gavin replied before walking away.

His curiosity had not been appeased so James began to wander aimlessly between rooms in the hope of finding an introduction. Several minutes later, he happened upon them in the hallway leading from the withdrawing rooms. Their exchange of words was not a pleasant conversation. 

Chapter Two

You’ve already taken the coins I had Mr Peterson. Tilly argued, I didn’t have that many to begin with.

You must have something in that damn bag of yours! Peterson snatched the