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Dedication:

M.M., I’ll never be able to find the right words to thank you for opening my mind to a world of so many possibilities. This one’s for you.

Chapter One

Charleston, South Carolina, 1871

To anyone passing on the street, Mr. and Mrs. Odell’s mansion looked majestic but empty. There were no conversations overheard from the kitchen or from the other servants doing laundry. All the help had been let go by Mr. Odell right before he walked out on his wife of five years.

Beauregard Odell, formerly of Atlanta, Georgia, owner of a very profitable shipping company in Charleston, South Carolina could no longer take his wife’s spoiled, and careless behavior. He had said so after one final argument between them, expletively telling his once beloved Lily he no longer gave two shits what she did from that moment on. Lily had pleaded and begged for him to stay. As she grabbed hold of his arm to keep him from storming off into the humid spring night, Beau had raised his hand. He had slapped her across the face only one time before, to bring her out of her hysteria when she saw that her beloved childhood home had been burnt to the ground by the Yankees as they paved a path of destruction throughout the South to win the Civil War. She had expected Beau to hit her again. But the slap would only sting, whereas her heart was still in pieces over the loss of her best friend and former lover, Mary Ashford.

Beau had accused her of being unfaithful to him with Wyatt Ashford, her neighbor whom she had known since girlhood. In a very calm manner, Beau told Lily he would divorce her.

Beau had no clue Wyatt wasn’t the Ashford she had once desired, but his Mary, dead from a miscarriage that had killed her and her baby. Mary had been the one she longed for, not Wyatt, even though Mary had turned away from her long ago. Through vicious rumors, thanks to the uppity Charleston society, and Beau catching her and Wyatt in an embrace, he could no longer stay married to her. The slap never came, but instead Beau gave her cheek one last fleeting caress with the back of his hand. He took his packed bags and walked out of the home they had built together, once hopeful of starting a family.

Now Lily lay sobbing in her bed…the same bed she had once shared many a steamy night with Beau. “Beau, how could you leave me? You promised you would never leave me again.” Lily spoke to the silent room as the late morning sun shined through the windows. She sweated as if she suffered from a fever, her exertion from nearly destroying her bedroom in rage. Her temper was well known and blamed on her Irish blood inherited from her father who died a year after the war had ended. Now with Beau walking out on her, she had no one. Her mother was also dead and her sister, Siobhan, hadn’t talked to her in years. Lily would never ask that traitor for any help. Her sister had moved up north and married a Yankee which was an insult to their heritage as Southern women.

Lily landed on her back, fanning her face with a wrinkled fan. She was hot and furious; angry beyond belief at Beau for believing she would cheat on him with another man, least of all Wyatt, who still mourned the death of his wife and baby.

“Mary,” Lily whispered softly, a tear falling from the corner of her eye. She reached down into her nightgown and rested her palm over her breast. Mary used to do the same to her when they were young, barely sixteen. She smiled, remembering the first time she and Mary had lain down next to each other naked in her bedroom. It had been the summer before Mary became engaged to Wyatt. Mary had been her first love, until Beau came along and helped her forget all she had lost...

“Damn him. Damn Beauregard Mitchell Odell to the bowels of Hell!” Lily snarled and sat up, the memories of the way Beau used to touch her tore through her. He would pinch and tug on her nipples, his moustache and beard sweeping across her flesh, placing his claim as his mouth slid over her cunny and drank the very depths of her. But no longer. He’d left her just like everyone else had.

The curtains shifted as a soft breeze fluttered across them, the lingering smell of last night’s rain stagnant in the air. Lily rolled out of her bed and walked over to the set of windows. She pulled off her nightgown and stood there in all her naked glory, facing the back of the house where the garden she had once taken such pride in, was now overgrown and ragged. Pressing her forehead against the window pane, she trembled with the overwhelming need to cry countless tears over her loss.

The creaking of the door made her turn as Sissy, her devoted maid of twenty years, came in holding a tray. She wiped her eyes as Sissy set the tray down on the table. She didn’t bother to cover herself since Sissy had seen her without clothes many times before. Plus, she was quite proud of her body even at twenty-eight years old and having gone through a pregnancy.

My darling Camilla…She held back a sob as she thought about the baby girl she would never hold in her arms and sing a lullaby to.

“Why Miss Lily, you’ll catch your death walkin’ around with nothin’ on,” the curvy, dark skinned woman stated and tsked under her breath as she went over to the armoire and pulled out a fresh nightgown for Lily to wear.

“Fiddle faddle, Sissy. I certainly won’t catch my death in this heat.” Lily fanned her face, and when Sissy brought over the nightgown, she grabbed it, ready to throw it to the floor.

“It’s not too hot. Stop your whinin’. Now listen to your Sissy and put on that there nightgown and eat something. You’re wastin’ away,” Sissy said and motioned for Lily to sit at the small table where she and Beau had shared breakfast together.

“I’m not hungry,” Lily said in a near pout, and when her stomach growled, Sissy raised her eyebrows.

“You could have fooled me. You need to eat and then get changed. It’s too beautiful of a day to stay inside.” Sissy inhaled deeply and spread out her arms.

Lily sat down and fiddled with her cup. “What’s the point in getting dressed? I have no one to meet. All my invitations have dried up. And I can’t take the stares and talk that will surely come my way when everyone finds out about me and Beau.”

“Miss Lily, you’ve endured much worse and come what may, you’ll live without Mr. Odell. You survived war, death, and hunger. Losin’ a man is nuthin’ to go on about. All you can do is take one day at a time.” Sissy poured the coffee into Lily’s cup and waited until Lily took a sip.

It had been days since Lily had coffee and she sighed as the savory bitter taste filled her mouth. Pushing her jet black hair away, she searched for the morning paper she liked to read every morning. “Where’s the paper?”

“It never arrived and I didn’t have the chance to get one yet. The paper’s stop comin’ since Mr. Odell left.”

Lily wanted to slam her cup down, but since she was a lady, she placed it gently on the saucer. “That bastard stopped the payments. If he was here, I would strangle him.” She drummed her fingers on the table, envisioning Beau with one of his belts around his throat as she squeezed the life out of him.

“We’re almost out of food,” Sissy said as she wrung her hands together.

Lily sighed and took hold of one of Sissy’s wrists. “I need you to remain strong. We both can’t have a breakdown. Once Beau gets over his little snit, he’ll be back.” She wanted to believe Beau would come back to her. She wouldn’t forgive him at first. Oh no, no no. She’d make him pay for what he made her go through these past few days. The last time she had felt such grief was over Mary’s death at the end of the summer and a few months prior when her precious Camilla—

“Miss Lily!” Sissy called out to her in a loud voice and Lily cringed. Under times of strain, much like now, she tended to woolgather. She reddened under Sissy’s scrutiny.

“You’re giving me a headache with all your worrying,” Lily groused and took another sip of her coffee. She went to spread jam on her roll, when Sissy knelt down next to her and pulled out a long envelope from her apron.

She knew it couldn’t be good. Whenever Sissy bowed her head like now, it was always to bring bad news. She had acted in such a way when she found her father hunched over dead in his rocking chair and after the doctor had taken her stillborn daughter away.

A chill went up her back and the coffee she drank rolled in her stomach. She patted the top of Sissy’s head. “Don’t prolong my misery. What’s this you’re giving me?”

Sissy didn’t look up at her. “As I was makin’ your breakfast, a man came with this here envelope and said it should be delivered right to you.”

Lily used a butter knife to open the envelope. Proud that her hands didn’t shake, she pulled out the letter and began reading. But before she’d reached the end of the letter, her eyes widened and she vaulted up from her chair.

“I-I can’t believe…he’s going to…” Lily, who was never at a loss for words, was now, thanks to her soon to be ex-husband.

Sissy stood and picked up the paper Lily had dropped on her plate. Sissy scanned the page although she couldn’t read. “What does it say, Miss Lily?”

Lily barely gave Sissy a glance as she moved up from the table and paced back and forth. Her nails dug into her palms as she shook, incensed by the sudden turn of events. “He means to sell the house, our house, by the end of the month and I must be out this week.”

“Oh no.” Sissy covered her mouth.

“Oh yes, he’s making me leave and if I don’t on my own accord, he’ll force me to.” A hoarse laugh left her. “I can’t believe it. I thought he was just angry and wanted to make me suffer by pretending to leave me. He really means it this time.”

“Oh, Miss Lily, what we are gonna do?” Sissy’s voice rose to a near whine.

“I haven’t a clue.” Lily tugged on her hair. “I-I need to be alone right now.”

Sissy called out her name as Lily left her bedroom and ran down the hall. Her chest heaved as she rushed along the long hallway, reaching the door she hadn’t opened in over six months. Taking in a deep breath, she let herself in.

The bedroom was half the size of hers and meant to be a nursery for the children she and Beau planned on having.

Tears fell down Lily’s cheeks. Falling to her knees, she laid her face against the bars of the crib her baby daughter had never slept in.

By the time Lily stopped crying, she went over to the rocker, took off the white sheet covering it and sat down. She rocked and hummed a lullaby her mother used to sing to her until Sissy found her and held her close, whispering words that were meant to soothe, but didn’t.

Chapter Two

The sleepy moan from the bed made Rose pause. When the sleeping woman settled back down, she continued giving herself a sponge bath to wash away the dried sweat and fluids from her body thanks to the fucking she’d enjoyed the night before. Once her bed partner had left, she would order a hip bath and bathe thoroughly. She didn’t want Margaret Anne to get ideas about staying longer than expected. She had outstayed her welcome and it was time for her to go.

Rose stretched her arms above her head and squeezed the sponge water down the back of her head, the rivulets cascading over her generous bosom and in between the succulent hips and thighs Margaret loved nibbling on. She would miss Margaret’s clever tongue and nimble fingers, but she had grown too possessive and wanted more of her time than she wasn’t willing to give. As the sole proprietor of a booming brothel, her attentions were needed elsewhere.

Leaving her water closet and walking softly past her bed where she gave the sleeping Margaret Anne a quick glance, she grabbed her red and white ankle length silk wrapper off her chair and pulled it on as she wound her curling chestnut hair into a braid. The smell of sausage and fresh warm bread reached her nose and she opened the door to her dayroom where her housekeeper, Josephine, waited with a table set up for her.

Closing the door softly behind her, she smiled at Josephine and walked over to the table breathing in the lovely scents. With a soft pat on Jo’s cheek, she nodded when Jo pulled out the chair for her to sit.

“Did you have a good night’s sleep?” Jo asked as she limped over to the sidebar to grab the coffee pot.

Rose stopped from getting her coffee herself. Jo didn’t want her to treat her any different than any of the other servants. Even with her bad leg, Jo was an efficient housekeeper. At least Jo had a pleasing look to her, and if not for her unsightly limp, she would have been right at home with her sister Alene as one of the many coveted women working at Rose’s Delights.

“I hardly slept, thank you very much,” Rose stated and covered her mouth as a yawn escaped.

“Your lover can’t keep her hands off of you. Do you allow her to take control in bed?” Jo asked in a pert voice as she gave Rose her coffee.

“Sweetie, the only woman who takes control in my bed is me.” Rose lifted her cup and winked.

“Too bad I’ll never find out,” Jo announced and set the newspaper down near Rose’s plate.

“You’re always welcome for me to tutor you in the sensual delights of a woman, but I know you prefer the more masculine persuasion,” Rose stated, wishing Jo would welcome the attentions of one or two of the men she kept on retainer for those ladies not ashamed to pursue pleasures outside their marriage, or the small number of male clients who welcomed the same.

Jo didn’t blush in embarrassment. Rose didn’t expect her to. Working at keeping Rose’s Delights in tip top shape for the past five years had given her enough of a lesson, where nothing shocked her anymore, not even an indecent proposal from her employer.

When Jo pulled up her skirt and pointed at her bad leg, Rose cleared her throat in disapproval. Even with Jo’s handicap, she never thought her to be less than a woman. But Jo had a difference of opinion which always led to them arguing.

“Sit down, you cheeky girl and join me for a cup of coffee. And if you say you have other duties to attend to, I’ll smack you. The girls are all still abed since most of them don’t get up before noon, unlike us early risers.”

“Clinton was in the kitchen when I grabbed your breakfast tray,” Jo said softly and sat down as ordered.

Rose noted the way Jo gazed into her empty coffee cup as if it held the answers to the world there. For now she wouldn’t bring up Jo’s tenuous relationship with the successful male prostitute she kept on staff.

Rose opened the paper and went straight to the society page where she learned all the dish about Charleston’s high society. Most of the gossip mentioned made her smile. It was all so delicious and scandalous. She simply couldn’t get enough of it.

Jo asked her to read something out loud when Rose dropped her cup down loudly, causing her coffee to splash over the rim. “This has to be a lie.”

“What outrageous things have been reported now about Mister So and So who was found in bed with Miss This and That and her friend?” Jo asked in a slightly bored tone.

Rose pulled the paper away from her face and put it down on the table. She traced under the words with her fingernail, wondering if she read it wrong. “It says Beau Odell has left his wife and is filing for divorce.”

“And?” Jo asked, shrugging as she grabbed a biscuit out of the basket and took a bite.

“All you have to say is ‘and?’” Rose asked in disbelief and sat back in her chair. She would have never imagined in a million years that Beau would walk out on Lily. He had once stated he would chase the devil himself to have the Southern belle. Whatever could have happened to make him end their marriage?

“Wasn’t there always talk about Mrs. Odell having a thing for one of her snooty friend’s husbands? Maybe Beau found him sticking his prick in Lily’s honeypot,” Jo said savagely.

Rose pursed her lips together, unamused by Jo’s statement. “Manners, young lady. I taught you better than that. Keep in mind Lily has always been civil to me. Remember when I wanted to donate money to the mothers of the dead soldiers’ charity and those hoity-toity ladies said my tainted money wasn’t welcome? Lily told them if they didn’t welcome my donation she would take her very large endowment elsewhere. I still have the note Lily sent me to thank me,” she said as an afterthought.

“You know how Beau is. He probably got tired of her and her stuck-up attitude,” Jo said and stood up. “On that note, Madam, I have laundry to do.”

Rose waved her away. “Go ahead. On your way downstairs, wake up your sister. I have something important to discuss with her.”

“About Mister Addison?” Jo asked.

Rose gave her a soft smile. “Perhaps.”

“All right, I’m leaving. Give my regards to the sleeping beauty in the next room,” Jo said as she made her way to the door.

Snorting, Rose watched the petite blonde leave. Rolling up the paper, she slapped her palm with it. Her mind turned over the countless possibilities now that Beau and Lily were separated. Beau would most likely visit her at one point to explain what had transpired. She was interested in hearing his side of the story, as well as Lily’s, who must be devastated. Losing Beau must have her in vapors bemoaning her fate.

But then again from what she knew about the outspoken Mrs. Odell, there was no doubt in her mind she would rise above it. And she wanted to be there to witness it.

First she would finish her breakfast, throw Margaret out of her bed and find more information about the destruction of the Odell’s marriage.

* * * *

The Marelton Chambers Hotel was the second most expensive hotel in Charleston. Beau had taken Lily there many times for dinner and to meet clients. Sometimes they even stayed overnight. It made perfect sense to her that Beau would reside there until he found more permanent lodgings.

Lily stood outside perfectly coifed and dressed in an emerald green walking dress, Beau’s favorite color on her. She planned on seeing her husband in his room and make him explain his cruel actions.

Giving her cheeks a pinch and tugging down her bodice, she made her way into the hotel. The footman who opened the door for her nodded and gave her chest a quick perusal. She smiled and sauntered in, her hips purposely swaying. Men loitering in the lobby tipped their hats to her as she made her way up to the front desk. The various reactions from the gentlemen gave her hope Beau would do the same and he would end this foolishness and come home.

When the man behind the desk smiled at her, she lifted her chin. “Good afternoon. I’m here to see my husband, Beau Odell. He’s staying in one of your rooms and he neglected to tell me his room number.”

Before the young man could reply, an older man came up behind him. Lily recognized him as the manager.

“Hello Mrs. Odell. It is always a pleasure to see you here at the Marelton.”

Lily smiled and nodded. “And the same to you, Foster. My husband has decided to stay here for a few days since he’s working such long hours and the hotel is closer to his office than our home. He forgot to notify me of his room number. If you could tell me where his room is, I can go up and see him.” She crossed her fingers behind her back over her fib.

Foster gave her an awkward stare. “Oh yes. Mr. Odell has informed us he’ll be staying here indefinitely, for work and all.” Foster walked around the desk and over to her. She followed him off to the side as he glanced around and lowered his voice. “Unfortunately I cannot give you Mr. Odell’s room number. He left explicit instructions no one be told unless they’re on our approved list.” Foster pulled on his collar. “You’re not on the list, Mrs. Odell.”

Lily’s jaw dropped. Shaking her head in astonishment, she slapped her reticule against her hip where the document from Beau’s lawyer lay. “There must be some mistake. Let me see this list.”

“Now Mrs. Odell you know I can’t,” Foster said in a calm voice. “Our guests’ privacy is of the utmost importance.”

A red haze covered her eyes. “But this concerns my husband. Nothing is private between a husband and a wife, wouldn’t you agree?” she asked in a biting tone.

“If you like, you may write a note and we’ll make sure Mr. Odell receives it,” Foster replied, folding his hands behind his back as he stared down at her.

Lily wanted to scream. How could Beau deny her like this? These childish actions of his had become tedious. She went to cross her arms as was her habit when she brooded but didn’t want to give Foster even more fodder for gossip. She could only imagine what he had heard about her and Beau.

“Very well,” Lily said, a congenial smile spreading over face. “If you have stationary, I’ll leave Mr. Odell a note. It probably slipped his mind. I mean what man wouldn’t put his wife on a list privy to his room number?”

The sympathetic nod Foster gave her made her mood darken even more. He held out his hand. “I’ll find paper and a writing implement.”

After Foster gave her the items, she sat in a corner and in a sweeping script informed Beau that she needed to see him at his earliest convenience. When she finished, she gave the message to Foster, who promised her he would deliver the note to Beau himself.

Now what should I do? Lily squeezed her reticule tighter. She had nowhere to go. Her once beloved home was more like an empty tomb filled with too many harsh memories.

A woman’s laugh came from the side and she faced the lounge. Aha! She wanted to clap. Beau would surely come down from his room sometime soon. She would sit in the lounge and watch for him. Then she would confront him. She would even swallow her pride and explain for what had to be the umpteenth time that she didn’t have any feelings for Wyatt Ashford, and the only man she ever loved and wanted in her bed was him.

Feeling as if a weight had been lifted away, she entered the lounge and sat in the corner facing the lobby and waited.

* * * *

The last time she had been to the Marelton Chambers, Rose had met with a client who wanted one of her girls to travel with him for an extended period of time while he was abroad. She enjoyed doing business at the hotel and, on occasion, had spent a night in one of their hotel rooms.

This time she wouldn’t be spending the night, or enjoying a romp in one of the beds. She planned to meet with Beau, preferably in his room, or so she had been told from one of her spies she paid to keep her informed of the coming and goings of Charleston’s upper crust.

Two of which included the recently separated Mr. and Mrs. Odell.

Rose walked across the marble floor, her focus on the two men behind the front desk even as her eyes darted around the foyer. Soft piano music came from within the lounge off to the side and she smiled when a man and woman sitting close together held hands and stared dotingly at one another as if they were the only ones in the room.

The man gave the woman a soft kiss on her cheek, which made the woman blush adorably. Rose couldn’t remember the last time she had such a tender moment with anyone, man or woman, and suddenly weariness settled in her chest and down her back.

That feeling of despondency vanished when she noticed Lily Odell in the back corner with a pot of tea and drinking from a cup. Lily’s hand shook as she set the cup back down on the saucer and wiped her mouth with a napkin.

She looks like she could use a stiff drink. Rose tapped her chin in contemplation and changed her course. She walked into the lounge and headed straight for her.

“Fancy seeing you here, Mrs. Odell.” Rose didn’t wait for an invitation and pulled out a chair to sit down.

Lily blinked, as if in a daze. “Hello, Mrs. Ware. Meeting a client here?”

Rose held back a laugh by Lily’s blunt question. Lily exhaled noisily, pushing her hair away from her forehead.

“Not today. Actually I’m here to see your husband,” Rose replied, waiting for Lily’s reaction.

Lily rubbed her nose and wiggled it. “Get in line. I’m waiting for the bastard myself.”

Rose crossed her legs. “Would you mind if I join you for a real drink? I’m parched from my ride over here,” she inquired as she removed her chocolate brown faille that complimented her flowered chintz Dolly Varden dress.

Lily shrugged. “But they don’t serve alcohol to ladies here.”

“I’m no lady and I’m buying,” she said, and snapped her fingers at the bartender, who bought her a bottle of wine and two glasses without even having to ask.

“Hello Mrs. Ware. You’re looking well this fine afternoon,” the bartender said as he placed everything down on the table.

“Thank you, Harold.” Rose nodded in approval. “I assume there won’t be too much of a problem if my friend and I share a glass or two of the hotel’s superb vintage?”

“Not at all, Mrs. Ware. You’re one of our most privileged guests. Enjoy your wine,” Harold replied and walked back behind the bar.

Rose slid one of the glasses over to Lily. “I’ve drank here before when I’ve…conducted business.”

Lily lifted the glass up to her mouth. “I guess it would be impolite for me to refuse then. Everyone has deserted me. I can’t do any more damage to my reputation if I have a drink with a.…”

“A whore?”

“Do you want me to apologize? Have I offended you?” Lily asked as she traced a nail around the rim of her glass.

Rose took her time pouring the wine. She then lifted up her full glass and took a sniff before she took a sip. “Not at all. I am indeed a whore. I must say I’m surprised you haven’t left in a huff, insulted that a fallen woman like myself with a heart full of sin would dare to speak to you in public.”

“I may not be a whore but I’ve become a fallen woman like you.” Lily’s lips trembled as she drank her wine. “Charleston knows Beau has left me. They all think it’s because I had an affair with Wyatt Ashford. Beau and I had a horrible row about it and he left. He’s done it before, walked out on me when we fought, but he always came back. But now.…”

“Now he hasn’t,” Rose interjected as she sat back, drinking her wine.

Lily sniffed and pulled out a handkerchief from her reticule. Wiping under her eyes she shook her head. “He-he sent me papers, or rather I should say his lawyer did, where I have five days to leave my house. He’s selling it right from under me without any warning. I came here to talk to him about it, but I’m not on his damned approved list. He has denied me, his own wife!”

Rose reached across the table and laid her hand on the back of Lily’s hand. When she didn’t pull away, Rose gave her a squeeze. “Beau’s hurting right now. I’ve known the man for a long time and sometimes he acts before he thinks. Give him time. He’ll come back to you. Hasn’t he always? Didn’t he almost die trying to find you after the war ended?” she asked in a pacifying voice.

Lily nodded and tucked her chin into her chest. “He said he would have gone to hell and back to be with me. I thought he was going to be hanged by the Yankees then. But the slick bastard got away before they could find him and stayed in hiding until it was safe for him.” A dreamy look came over Lily’s face. “The day after the South surrendered and you sent me a note telling me where Beau could be found was one of the happiest days of my life. We celebrated being alive.” A blush sprouted on her cheeks. “He asked me to marry him then and I gladly accepted.”

“You two have been through so much.” Rose squeezed Lily’s wrist and hid the regret in her voice. She wished she could experience the depth of feelings Lily and Beau had for one another. In all likelihood, she never would. Mentally shaking away those depressing musings, she got back to the business in front of her. “Those months Beau stayed hidden in Rose’s Delights is where I saw how much he loved you. He had such an intense need to be with you, to make certain you were safe.”

“Thank you for keeping Beau out of harm’s way.” Lily turned her palm up and held her fingers in a tight grip. Rose longed to caress the inside of Lily’s palm…for comfort and something deeper building inside of her. Now was not the time to define it, but whatever it was, it whispered in her ear like an annoying gnat she couldn’t shoo away.

“I’m glad,” Rose cleared her throat to remove the unpleasant lump forming there. “You didn’t turn your back on me or acted as if I didn’t exist when you married Beau and took your place in society as his wife.”

“I never had a true place in society. I was barely accepted out of respect for Beau.” Sighing, Lily tapped her finger against the side of her glass. “Most of the time the wives of Beau’s business associates barely said more than a few words to me. On top of that, their husbands would ogle me.” She grimaced. “Beau would tell me to ignore them and I did…the best I could under the circumstances. But it was still an insult I couldn’t get past.”

“What about Mr. and Mrs. Ashford? If I’m not mistaken, you were close with them,” Rose inquired smoothly, wondering how familiar Lily was with Mr. Ashford, and if Beau’s jealously only got the better of him, or perhaps there was some fact to the accusations he accused Lily of.

“We are…were very close friends,” Lily said in a whisper. “I’ve known Wyatt and Mary since I was a child. Wyatt’s land bordered my family’s property, while Mary is…was my best friend.”

“And now you only have Wyatt,” Rose said softly. And you have me if you need another friend.

Lily gave Rose a weak smile. “Do I? I don’t know anymore. Wyatt is away on some sort of business. Who knows when he’ll return? He probably has no idea about me and Beau. A good thing I guess, since Beau would confront Wyatt and hurl those ugly accusations at him like he did to me.”

Rose tapped her front teeth with her tongue, the urge to ask Lily if Beau’s accusations were true. But she didn’t. She had to tread lightly with the emotional Lily.

“So here you sit, waiting for Beau and drinking your sorrows away. I must say I’m surprised to see you acting this way. The Lily I know would tell Beau to go to hell and have him wait for you to see him, not the other way around.”

“Perhaps the Lily you know is no longer there,” Lily said, barely in a whisper as she finished her glass and went to pour another.

Before she could do so, Rose moved the bottle away. “Drinking yourself into oblivion is not going to solve your problems. And at the rate you’re going, by the time Beau comes down from his room, even if he is up there, you’ll be a mess. He’ll still turn away from you in disgust and you’ll end up embarrassing yourself even more.”

Lily’s eyes went wide and Rose couldn’t help but notice what a lovely shade of violet they were, to match her porcelain skin. She traced her finger on the table top and waited for Lily to hurl some sort of cutting insult back at her, but she never did. What she asked instead gave Rose an unpleasant jolt.

“Is that what Beau was like when you were together?”

Rose lightly coughed into her hand. She needed a moment, or rather millions of moments to come up with the correct response. Lily stared at her as she drank her wine and fiddled with one of her buttons on her bodice.

Finally, Rose found her voice. “Beau came into my life when I needed him. He told me right from the start what our relationship entailed. But still, that didn’t stop me from wanting give up everything to be with him. But Beau couldn’t commit to just one woman. After a long bout of tears and getting roaring drunk one night, where the next day I was hunched over a pail casting up my accounts, I realized it was better I let him go.” Rose wiped away the condensation off her glass. “If I had done anything I could to keep him, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today.”

“And then he found me. And we…I thought we would be together forever. But what a fool I’ve been. No one stays with me forever. Not Beau, not my family, not Mary—”

When Lily went silent, Rose looked at her in distress. Tears for the first time fell down Lily’s face and her shoulders shook as she dropped her head down. Rose got up from her chair and sat down next to Lily, wrapping an arm around her and brushing her hair back with her fingers.

“Hush, Lily. You’ll make yourself sick. The wine has made you weepy and maudlin,” Rose crooned into her ear.

“I want things to go back to the way they were before,” Lily said in a hoarse whisper as she hid her face into Rose’s chest.

I need to get her out of here and soon. Rose could feel the eyes of everyone in the room starring at them. Some things were just not done in public and having a crying fit like Lily was a perfect example.

“Chin up now. You know as well as I do that crying doesn’t solve anything. And do you really want Beau to come upon you crying like a water pot?” Rose tipped up Lily’s chin. “He’s immune to a woman’s tears.”

When Lily moved away from her, Rose felt as if she’d lost something special. The need to pull Lily back into her embrace escalated. Before she could even think of doing so, Lily patted her eyes and sniffed loudly.

“You’re right. Beau could see through my tears every time,” Lily explained and blew her nose softly.

Rose took a sip of her wine and fixed the front of her dress so she had something to do with her hands. She didn’t think Lily would allow her to stroke her flushed cheeks. “I only cried once in front of Beau when I found out…” She didn’t finish, cursing herself for almost admitting something unsettling in her past with Beau that would probably bring forth more tears from his wife.

“Aren’t you going to finish?” Lily asked, her voice going cold.

“It’s probably best if I don’t. You’re already out of sorts and—”

“Did you and Beau ever have intimate relations while we were married?”

Rose should have expected the question. She’d been waiting for it for so long. She cleared her throat and tugged on a curl resting against her neck. “No. Our relationship ended far before you two were married.” Rose reached out and took Lily’s hand in hers. “I promise on the grave of my dead mother that Beau and I have only been friends. I do hope you believe me.”

When Lily didn’t pull away, Rose sat back against the cushion of the booth. She waited for a response. Finally when Lily took her hand back, she lifted her glass and drank.

“I believe you.” Lily glanced down at the table and blinked away her tears. “You and Beau have a great deal of history together. Why would you go out of your way to be…friends with me when you can be with Beau instead and support him during this rough time?”

Rose smoothed away a few strands of hair behind Lily’s ear. “I believe Beau is in the wrong in this matter and you’ve always been kind to me. You never snubbed me when we’ve been at the same places and always went out of your way to make me feel welcome. I’m returning the favor now.”

When Lily’s eyes filled with tears again, Rose’s chest clenched.

“Thank you. You opinion means a great deal to me,” Lily said and dropped her hand away from Rose’s clasp.

Rose’s fingers twitched as she held back from joining their fingers together. Lily’s hands were smooth, her fingers long and almost bony with perfectly manicured nails, unlike hers, which were wrinkling with age and rough around the edges. She’d always hated her hands. They reminded her of her mother’s roughened ones from hours of cleaning house and cooking meals.

She sat there contemplating the woman who bore and raised her, something she hadn’t done in a long time. A pang of melancholy hit her. Shaking her head slightly, as if she could push away those sorrowful feelings, she turned her attention back to Lily who was drinking again.

Lily burped lightly into her fist and gave her a droopy smile. And when she almost tilted to the side, Rose hooked an arm around the inebriated woman.

“I think you’ve had enough to drink for today. Why don’t I find a carriage to take you home?” Rose offered in a gentle voice.

Giving her a pout, Lily rolled her head back and forth against the booth. “I don’t want to go home. My house is so lonely and empty.”

Lily’s slurred, husky groan hit Rose embarrassingly low in her gut. She now had a good indication of what Lily sounded like in the throes of passion.

This is not the time to think of such things! Rose wanted to feel shame over her reaction toward Lily, but she had never been the type to do so and wouldn’t start now. When Lily rested her head on her shoulder and a soft snore escaped from her mouth, that unsettling yearning for the woman changed to one of a more protective nature.

Shaking Lily awake, she moved out of the booth and went around to the other side, where she helped the troubled woman onto her feet. Lily blinked at her tiredly and swayed. Rose caught her around the hips and shuffled forward.

“Keep your head up as we leave the hotel. We wouldn’t want word to get back to Beau that you drank yourself into a stupor,” Rose whispered against Lily’s ear.

Lily shook her head in agreement and Rose gave her a pleased nod when Lily walked alongside her with a smile on her face as if she wasn’t ready to fall to the floor in a drunken heap.

The walk across the foyer seemed to take forever for Rose, but she didn’t rush Lily as they walked past the guests who glanced at them in curiosity. Rose gave them no mind and went as far to nod at a few, even though as soon as she did, they turned their faces away.

Rose expected no less from her peers who she knew saw the aging whore and the soon to be rejected wife of one of the richest men in Charleston walking out into the hot afternoon to find another place where no one would judge them.

Chapter Three

The soft bedding under Lily did nothing for her sour stomach. A loud croak left her mouth as she turned to her side and reached for Beau, wanting to feel his arms around her and his breath in her ear as she tried holding back her nausea...

I’ve lost Beau. She moved onto her back and deeply inhaled. For once her aching body overrode her urge to cry.

Why does my mouth taste like a dead cat? “I want to die,” she whispered and opened her eyes. Expecting her room to be filled with brightness, she covered her eyes with her arm and blinked. When the sunlight from the window didn’t blind her, she focused on the room.

Slowly sitting up, she scrutinized the unfamiliar bedroom. Missing were the dark greens walls and red curtains, along with the satin pillows and crisp Egyptian cotton sheets she enjoyed feeling draped around her naked body. Rather, she was in a sparsely decorated room with pale yellow walls and pastel bedding. The cotton nightgown she wore was a size too large and gaped in the chest area.

Where in the hell am I? Lily shoved the sheet away and sat up near the edge of the bed, pushing her hair away from her face. Her eyes were dry and her throat scratchy. As she stepped down on the wooden floor, her stomach rolled and she covered her mouth as she gagged. Acid tasting bile rose in her mouth, and as soon as she spotted the water closet, she ran into the small room and knelt over the chamber pot where she expelled anything left in her stomach.

“I’m never drinking wine again,” Lily muttered as she finished being sick. She rested her head on the rim of the pot, gagging again as the fumes hit her in the face. Moving back until she hit a wall, she wiped her mouth and closed her eyes.

A door opened and footsteps tapped across the floor until they stopped next to her. Lily cracked open an eye and glanced up at a lightly tanned woman with dirty blonde hair in a tight braid and freckles across her nose and cheeks. She had a dull looking beige dress on with a stained apron over it. She gave her a sympathetic smile and Lily closed her eyes again.

“Who are you? Where am I?” Lily asked faintly and pulled down the nightgown to cover her legs.

“I’m the housekeeper here at Rose’s Delights. My name is Josephine but I go by Jo.”

“You’re quite young to be...” Lily’s eyes shot open upon hearing the girl’s response. “Oh dear god, don’t tell me Rose brought me to her whore house?”

“It’s a brothel, not a whore house.” Jo’s voice grew hard.

When Lily glanced her way again, the woman had knelt down beside her and frowned.

“Pardon me. I’m feeling under the weather,” she explained weakly, wishing she could crawl back into bed and pull the covers over her head. But she would need help and the only one she could turn to was this Josephine who apparently took pride in her work even though she was employed at a place of ill repute.

“Under the weather? That’s what they’re calling a night of drinking now?” Jo snorted and when she rolled her eyes, Lily glared back at her.

“Are all whores as honest as you are?” Lily asked in a tired voice, the fight leaving her.

A tilting laugh left Jo. “I don’t make my money lying on my back. I’m just a plain old servant who does the housework. But I can be honest when it calls for it.”

Lily gave Jo a speculative look. Jo had an agreeable face most men would approve of and a body with fetching curves in all the right places. She had heard the women in Rose’s care were well compensated. Why would Jo work here as a servant, unless she had certain morals—

When Jo rose and winced, rubbing her calf as she limped out of the small room, Lily quickly came to the conclusion why Jo hadn’t chosen the path Rose had for herself.

Thoughts of Rose filled her head and she slowly came to her feet. By the time her head stopped spinning and her stomach ceased its lurching, Jo came back in holding a glass full of chalky colored water and a towel.

“Here.” Jo held out the items. “Drink this down and then clean your face and whatever else you’d like on your person.” She opened the towel and in the middle was a comb, soap and a mouth brush with a small tube of teeth powder.

Lily took the glass and sipped it slowly. A slight bitter taste filled her mouth and she grimaced. “This has a…curious taste to it.”

Jo gave her an impish smile. “It’s a restorative mixture to calm your stomach and get rid of your headache since you’re under the weather.” She crossed her arms and tilted her head. “I’m not going to leave until you drink every last drop down.”

“You’re an insolent girl,” Lily stated and did what Josephine ordered.

Jo gave her a wink and a big grin. “Rose says the same thing to me all the time.”

“Where is Rose? Is she still sleeping?’ Lily asked. She needed to know how much of a fool she had acted like yesterday.

“Rose is awake. After you take care of your toilet, you can put on the robe and slippers I left on the bed and join her in the other room. Breakfast is waiting for you there.”

“Wait!” Lily called out as the brash woman turned to leave. “What do you mean in the other room? Am I mistaken or did you say I was in a whore…ah, brothel?”

Jo cocked her head and gave Lily a confused glance. “You’re in the guest room on the top floor where Rose’s suite is. When you’re ready, go through the ivory colored door and you’ll end up in her quarters.”

“Oh,” Lily said. She had no idea Rose had her own suite of rooms, including this one that gave off such a cozy feel.

Jo smiled and slightly bowed her head. “I’ll leave you to it then.”

Lily waited as Jo left. When she heard a door open and close, she sighed and walked over to the mirror where she covered her mouth upon seeing her reflection.

Not only was her hair a tangled mess, but she had circles under her eyes and her skin had a slight yellowish tint to it.

Shocked at her appearance, the urge to vomit came upon her again. The last time she had looked so unkempt was after she gave birth to her dead baby. After a few seconds went by, where she frowned back at the mirror, she began combing her hair, anxious to see her hostess.

* * * *

When Lily entered Rose’s salon, she expected to see a room set for seduction. But what a room meant to arouse would look like was a mystery to her. Most likely the complete opposite of the one she woke up in. She walked into a living space reminding her of her mother’s day room where she would crochet or read, inviting her friends for tea and to gossip.

She’d also assumed Rose would be dressed in some sort of vulgar negligee, but was mistaken once again. Rose wore a respectable ivory linen tea gown, sans the long sleeves, drinking from a cup and reading a letter. She sat back in her chair and smiled, shaking her head, amused by whatever the paper held. Lily didn’t announce her arrival, and settled for watching the serene Rose who was unaware that she had company.

She truly is beautiful. Lily scanned Rose’s face, her skin a tone darker than her own and with more wrinkles to denote her advanced age. She had never asked Rose how old she was, but she would say she was in her mid to late thirties with a healthy head of hair that hadn’t started graying yet. Her own opaque locks were pin straight while Rose’s curled every which way. For once she was envious of another woman’s hair. Her own hair had always been one of her favorite attributes, and it seemed that many of her gentlemen callers agreed, as well as her father.

She and Beau had made quite the couple with the same color hair and comparable skin tone. Sadness filled her, knowing she would never again spread her hair across Beau’s chest and stomach while they lay in bed, sated after making love late into the night.

Pushing aside thoughts of her husband, she stepped further into the room. The floor boards squeaked. Rose slipped the letter into the bodice of her dress.

“Good morning, Lily. I hope you slept well. Please join me.” Rose indicated the empty chair next to her.

Lily walked over and gave Rose a short smile, holding back a wince as her stomach turned. “I must apologize if I appear…tired.”

“Oh yes. I’ve had the after effects of being under the weather a few times before,” Rose responded boldly.

Lily gave her an incensed look as she sat. “I see your girl Jo made you aware of the conversation we had.” She pulled her robe tighter around her as she settled back in her chair. The aroma of the baked scones from the basket in front of her made her mouth water, although her stomach still felt delicate.

“Jo tells me everything that transpires under my roof. She’s very dedicated to me.” Rose slid over the small, steaming pot to her. “I recommend you drink tea first before eating anything.”

How dedicated? Lily contemplated the relationship between Rose and her servant as she poured tea into her cup.

“From your silence, you’re deliberating. If you have questions, please go ahead and ask. I have nothing to hide.” Rose gestured with her knife as she spread jam on her scone.

Taking a tentative sip of her tea, Lily grabbed a piece of toast. She’d eat the toast dry first and then see how her stomach acted before she ate a scone. Vomiting over her hostess’s table would be something she would never live down. When she nodded in approval upon drinking the tea, she then took a tentative bite of her crust and chewed slowly.

“Could you explain to me how I got here, why I spent the night and where my clothes are?” Lily asked as she nibbled on her bread.

Rose put down her cup, let out a yawn and stretched her arms high above her head. When the top portion of her breast poked up through her bodice, Lily glanced away. She’d sworn she saw the pink shade of a nipple. Rose dropped her arms back down and murmured an apology.

“Sorry, I went to bed late last night. Anyway, I’m not sure what you remember, but you had too much wine to drink and could barely sit without falling over to the side. I couldn’t leave you at the hotel to be thrown out or found by Beau. You practically begged me not to leave you alone and I brought you back here. Jo and I undressed you and put you to bed where you went right to sleep. Your clothes are being laundered.”

“You saw me naked,” Lily’s face grew flush in mortification.

Rose shrugged and lifted her cup up to her mouth. “You have nothing I haven’t seen before. You have a body most women would dream of owning.”

Lily almost choked and quickly took a sip of her tea. Rose smiled over her rim, her cheeks rosy and her face glowing with amusement.

“My servant girl Sissy must be sick with worry,” Lily said.

“I sent a message around to your house explaining your whereabouts. If you want, I can have Sissy sent here with a dress so you don’t have to wear one of mine.”

Lily lifted up part of her robe. “I’m wearing your nightgown and robe?”

Rose nodded. “Yes. I could have sent for something of yours, but by the time we came back here, you were half asleep.” She put her cup down as she flicked a crumb off the tablecloth. “I didn’t think you’d want to sleep in the nude.”

“Unlike the women who sleep here?” Lily asked with her nose high in the air.

Rose chortled. “If only you knew what my girls sleep in. You might be surprised.”

“Nothing surprises me anymore,” Lily replied softly and stared down into her cup.

Silence filled the room until Rose tapped her fingernails gently against her plate. “You expected Beau to come rushing over here and make sure you’re all right.”

Lily shrugged. “Does he even know I waited for him? If so, did he even care I drank too much and left with you?”

“He might. The man always finds out everything sooner or later.” Rose finished her tapping and lifted the toast rack to Lily.

She wants to make certain I’m well fed. How sweet of her. Lily took the offering, this time scooping out strawberry jam for a spread. Rose gave her a satisfied nod and poured more tea into her cup.

“Perhaps if Beau finds out I stayed here overnight, he’ll want to see me, if only to yell at me again.” Lily smiled at the idea. Up until the last fight they had, she always enjoyed arguing with Beau. Their emotions ran high when they disagreed and their fights always ended with them in bed.

Rose leaned forward and brushed her fingers over her cheek. Rose’s touch gave her a start, which she hid by pouring cream into her tea.

“Can I offer you some friendly advice? You need to start thinking about a future without the possibility of Beau being in it. Fixating on him coming back to you isn’t healthy.”

“But—”

“But nothing.” Rose wagged her finger. “I wish I could say Beau will see the error of his ways and crawl back on his hands and knees, begging for your forgiveness for treating you so callously.” Her lips curved upward. “But Beau is too stubborn for his own good. If and when he finds out you spent the night in my house of business, he’ll most likely complain to his friends and acquaintances to make you look even worse in order to back up his claims you’ve been a faithless hussy.”

“He wouldn’t dare!” Lily shoved back her chair. With food in her stomach, she felt much better. Also, Rose’s statement about Beau slandering her made her temper rise. She paced the length of the room with her fists clenched and her jaw locked.

Rose wiped her fingers on a napkin. “He would so dare. He has nothing to lose.”

With her chest heaving, Lily stomped back over to the table and tightened her grip around the top of the chair. She squeezed, wishing it was Beau’s throat she had in her hands. “If that man thinks he can malign me even more, I’ll give him a fight he’ll never see coming. He’s treated me horribly and deserves to feel the same.” Suddenly the nervous energy rushing through her body left her and she dropped back down in her seat. “I’m at a loss for ideas. I have nowhere or no one to turn to who could help me.”

“Lily,” Rose said and stood up to walk behind her. She placed her hands on her shoulders and bussed her cheek across Lily’s warm one. “Like I told you last night, you’re not alone. You have me. I’m powerful in my own right even if I do live on the edges of respected society. I’ve known Beau much longer than you have and between the both of us, we can come up with a few ways to get back at him for the way he’s hurt you.”

“He has too much power on his side,” Lily lamented and twirled a piece of her hair as she stared up at the ceiling.

Rose waved airily. “Pish. Beau has all the power because you give it to him. What if I told you I had a way to really stick it to him good?”

Lily sat up straight and motioned for Rose to sit back down. “Please tell, Mrs. Ware.”

Rose brushed her hand over the back of Lily’s hair. Lily smiled over the sparkling animation shining on Rose’s face.

“Beau assumes you have nowhere to turn. I bet he’s thinking you’ll go to Ashford and ask him for help,” Rose said.

“Even if I went to Wyatt, I’d not find much help there. He’s out of town and I don’t know when he’ll return. And even if he was around, I wouldn’t go to him. Beau would have even more ammunition in his case to prove I was unfaithful to him, which I wasn’t.”

“Dearest Lily, I know you didn’t go behind Beau’s back with another man, but Beau and the majority of Charleston believe you did,” Rose said in a modulated tone.

“What?” Lily cried out in a near screech. “How…I...”

Rose picked up the newspaper lying next to her plate and opened it to the section where most of Charleston’s gossip could be found. “I didn’t want to show this to you, but ever since Beau left you, the paper has mentioned you in every edition. This morning they said Beau has thrown you out of the house and you’ll most likely end up on the street.”

“Give me that.” Lily tore the paper out of Rose’s hands. She scanned the words, barely digesting them because of her anger. Crumpling up the page, she slammed her hands down on the table and the dishes rattled. “How did they find out about Beau forcing me out of our house?”

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Beau fed the papers the information. He’s the type to do—”

“The type?” Lily asked in skepticism and sat back heavily with her arms crossed while she swung her leg over the other. “I’m his wife, the women he promised to honor and cherish. I can’t believe he would destroy everything we had together over a silly misunderstanding.”

Lily allowed her hand to be taken by Rose. “His pride is hurt and he doesn’t want to listen to reason. He’s acting very childish because he’s in pain. In turn he’s lashing out at you. If this were a different matter, I’d advise you take the high road, but until he gets what he wants, he won’t stop.”

“I don’t know what he wants,” Lily said in a broken whisper. “I’ve apologized and begged him to forgive me and promised I would be a better wife. But…he wouldn’t listen. It’s like some demon has taken over his body. I can’t get through to him like I once could.”

“That’s why we must fight fire with fire. You lived through a war that would destroy a woman’s sanity. A selfish prick like Beau isn’t going to ruin everything you worked so hard for. He needs to be taught a lesson.”

A thrill shot up Lily’s spine at the idea of Beau bawling into his pillow over her. She leaned in closer to Rose until she was only an inch away from her. “And what do you recommend we do?” she asked in breathless anticipation.

An unexpected heat pooled in between her legs when Rose cupped the back of her head. Lily couldn’t look away as Rose’s tongue swiped over her bottom lip and then her top. A sigh almost left her as Rose’s mouth brushed over her cheek.

“Beau wants to ruin your reputation so he looks golden in the eyes of the law. But what he doesn’t realize is until he divorces you, his last name is in conjunction with yours. Every move you make is watched and commented upon. So, whatever actions you do, it will come back on him. What if you do something unbelievably shocking that will make him lose face in the eyes of his peers?”

“And what do you recommend I do?” Lily asked, her eyes flickering as Rose’s breath tickled the side of her face.

Rose snickered. “Nothing as shocking as walking down Main Street naked, but more along the lines of guilt by association. I want you to come live with me here, at Rose’s Delights, and help me run things.”

Lily’s eyes grew wide and she moved away. Rose continued to give her a droopy eyed stare and gently tugged on the edges of her hair. She mulled over Rose’s idea, contemplating both the consequences as well as the rewards.

“If I do that, I’ll become a pariah in truth,” Lily said carefully.

Rose folded her hands on the table. “It could happen, but look at the situation you’re in now. Where are all your friends and neighbors coming to your defense, inviting you to stay with them?”

“No one has,” Lily responded sadly. “Only you.”

“And what’s the worst that could happen? You leave Charleston with a big divorce settlement Beau will end up giving you to help you begin somewhere new.” Rose held up her finger when she began to argue. “And don’t tell me Beau won’t give you some monetary compensation. He owes it to you, and again, he’ll look like a complete ass if he denies you some sort of support. You can fight him on that regardless if he accuses you on the grounds of adultery. Beau can be a prig when it suits him, but he’s not completely heartless.”

“If I do this and live with you here, he may become angrier and find a way to get his revenge.” Lily held back her panic. It was one thing to lose Beau, but another not to have any money to make her own way in the world. She refused to go back to those days right after the war ended where she tried to save her home and not starve. Never again would she go to bed hungry and afraid. Beau had promise, no matter what happened between them, he would make certain she was well cared for. And that meant his bank account.

“Listen to me.” Rose grabbed hold of Lily’s hand and rubbed her thumb across her knuckles. Lily concentrated on the caress to help calm her nerves and rapidly beating heart. “Beau is just a man. He can do only so much and go off at the mouth until people get tired of hearing him speak. You two are the current scandal of the moment. I can promise you in a few days there will be a new one and everyone will turn their attention elsewhere. Do you really care what those snobs think of you?”

“Not one fig,” Lily said strongly and gave Rose’s hand a strong squeeze. Rose did the same and they both smiled at one another, basking in their triumph.

“Now, how about we finish our breakfast and send a message to your servant girl to bring you a change of clothes. Then we’ll go back to your soon to be vacated house and take what you need so you can get settled in here. I can’t wait to show you around and how things are run. My girls are going to adore you as much as I do.”

Lily glanced at Rose from the corner of her eye while Rose hummed a jaunty tune. She adored her? Why did that make her stomach knot and her thighs clench? She had felt much the same when Beau professed his love for her while they made love. Mary had admitted more than a few times the summer before she became engaged to Wyatt how wonderful she found her to be. But then Mary had been the one to end their love affair before it could really take flight.

Rose was just a friend and not a lover. She couldn’t put her heart on the line again, and not with a woman who had seen and done things that would make a weaker woman faint. She did like to hear the compliment from Rose, but she wouldn’t ponder the deeper meaning behind it.

She raised her cup to her lips and watched silently as the woman sitting next to her finished her breakfast. Lily ignored the urge to press her lips against Rose’s to taste the spot of jam left on the side of her mouth. And the fact she didn’t feel any shame by thinking it, confused her even more.

Chapter Four

“Do you think Rose and her overnight guest are having breakfast in bed together and using a pot of jam in creative ways?”

Jo threw one of Alene’s slippers at her head. Alene ducked and giggled as she pulled a brush through her hair. Her younger sister could be so silly sometimes, but Jo loved her to pieces regardless.

Alene swung around on her stool and faced her. Both dimples of her cheeks surfaced as she smiled. Jo continued sewing a loose button on the back of Alene’s dress.

“You gossip too much,” Jo said, and broke off the thread with her teeth. She held the dress up for Alene’s approval.

“What else is there to do here? Why, I bet Rose and Mrs. Odell engage in a scandalous love affair.” Alene lifted her finger in the air and swung her waist long blonde hair over one shoulder. “Mr. Odell will find out, and still in passionate love with his wife, will steal her back. Rose and Mrs. Odell will go into hiding where her nasty husband can’t find them.”

“You’ve been reading too many of those penny novels,” Jo teased.

Alene sat down on the bed next to her and unraveled Jo’s braid to brush her hair. “Monty gives them to me. He knows I can’t get enough of them. Sometimes after we finish fucking, he’ll read me a passage or two before he leaves to go to his club.” A sigh left Alene’s mouth as she spoke of her favorite client, the fifteen year older Mr. Addison, who’d been coming to Rose’s Delights for years. Mr. Addison developed an attachment for Alene since she started working as one of Rose’s girls and chose to spend his nights with her.

“And what about Mrs. Margaret Anne Bourdieu, Rose’s current lover? Mrs. Bourdieu won’t give up Rose without a fight either. One morning while I was helping the woman get dressed to return home, all she could go on about was how skilled Rose was and not even her husband could give her the type of climaxes Rose could.”

“Ew. I just don’t understand how two women could be together like that. They’re missing an important body part that brings forth such pleasure.” Alene tugged on Jo’s hair. “Do you think Rose really enjoys sticking her tongue into a woman’s honey pot?”

“Alene Jonet!” Jo groaned and covered her face. “I don’t want to think about Rose and her tongue anywhere near Bourdieu’s nether regions.”

“A woman likes it when a man suckles her cunny, so why not when a woman does the same? I’ve heard many women in our line of work, who have only preferred men, express delight over a woman’s soft lips and lapping tongue in their puss when with a female client,” a voice Jo knew all too well spoke from the doorway.

“Clinton Lear! Watch your mouth. There are two ladies present.” Alene rolled her eyes and got up from the bed.

Jo peeked through her fingers as Alene gave Clinton’s arm a rap with her brush. He gave Alene a mock pout and then Jo a wink.

He’s so beautiful. Jo put her hair back into a braid as she gave Clinton side glances. While Alene combed her fingers through his curls to bring them to order, Jo licked her lips, wishing she was brave enough like Alene to touch Clinton that way.

“We’re embarrassing your sister,” Clinton said to Alene and kissed the inside of her palm as he walked past her and sat down on the edge of the bed. Jo held back a moan as his hip brushed hers.

Alene put her fisted hands on her hips. “I should have shut the door. You have a bad habit of entering a room without being invited.”

Clinton inclined back on his elbow as he tapped his fingers on his stomach. Jo watched, entranced by those skillful hands of his. Clinton was friendly with his touches among the other girls, but when it came to her, he kept his hands to himself.

“You should be honored by my presence. Many women would swoon to find me in their boudoir.”

Jo covered a laugh and shook her head. Clinton sat up and when his arms came around her and pressed her back against his chest, she almost swallowed her tongue.

“I’m glad I make you laugh. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you smile,” Clinton said softly into her ear.

Jo stared ahead, afraid to move. Alene crossed her arms and tilted an eyebrow up.

“Don’t,” Jo mouthed at her sister and moved out of Clinton’s embrace.

“Now I’m lonely. Come back,” Clinton said in that husky voice of his she’d never get tired of hearing.

“What a joke.” Alene snorted and hung the dress that Jo passed over to her in her closet. “You barely have time for yourself with the line of men and women coming in and out of your bedroom.”

Clinton sat back against the headboard and wiggled his booted foot. When he folded his hands behind his head, the collar of his white shirt gaped and Jo caught sight of a purplish bruise near his collarbone. She leaned against the open doorway, watching his throat move. Another love bite from one of his clients. I wonder if he has any others on his body?

Clinton rested his palm over the bruise. Creases developed on his forehead, a notable sign he was unhappy about something . His genial smile vanished with a pensive stare aimed at her.

“It’s been an exhausting few weeks. Maybe I’ll think of retiring soon, if only to catch up on my sleep.” Clinton’s dark blue eyes twinkled back at her as he spoke to Alene, although he watched her the entire time.

“You retire?” Alene sat back down in front of her mirror and rubbed cream on her cheeks. “You’ve been saying that since I first met you. And where would you go? To some boring backwater town where no one would recognize you?”

“I’d buy a small plot of land and raise horses with my savings. It would be nice to have solitude, away from all you harping women.” Clinton bent forward and rested his hands on his knees. “But then I’d have to leave Jo, and I don’t think I can.”

“Wh-what?” Jo’s breath left her as Clinton stood and came over to her. She tilted her head back as she gazed up into his face, which she found angelic.

Clinton rubbed a piece of her hair that loosened from her braid. “If I left, I wouldn’t have anyone to iron my trousers or sew buttons on my shirts.”

Alene giggled. Jo slapped his arm. He didn’t block her move and when she pulled her hand away, he took it in his own and kissed her knuckles. She cleared her throat, his touch making her heart flutter in her chest.

“Stop teasing Jo. She has much more to offer a man than just ironing his shirts.” Alene wagged a finger at Clinton.

Clint squeezed Jo’s hand and released her as she moved to her side and backed against the wall. She couldn’t stand there with Clinton so close, and as she went to take a step forward, her leg cramped and she winced.

“Is your leg hurting you? Do you want me to go down to the kitchen and ask Cook for a warm compress to ease you sore muscles?” Clinton asked, his teasing turning to one of concern.

Jo’s bottom lip trembled with emotion, but she didn’t care, and shook her head no.

“That’s sweet of you, but I’m fine. I have to go down there anyway,” she gave his arm a pat as a thank you.

“Are you two sharing secrets over there? Seeing as you’re both guests in my room, I deserve to know what you’re talking about.” Alene glared at both her visitors through her mirror.

“Clinton asked me about Mrs. Odell and what Rose has planned for her.” Jo stated, and when Clinton’s hand brushed up against her hip, she moved over to Alene to fix her hair. Why Clinton suddenly frowned at her, she couldn’t say.

“Rose is going to take Mrs. Odell as her next lover. Just you watch.” Alene gave Jo a knowing smile as she pulled down her robe to spread cream over the top of her chest.

“Maybe Rose will talk her into working for the house,” Clinton said and put his hands in his trouser pockets.

Jo brushed Alene’s hair, refusing to look at Clinton. She could feel him staring at her and she didn’t like it.

“You two are wrong. Rose wants Mrs. Odell to stay here so she’s not alone in her big house. She needs friends during this tough time and Rose is the only one who hasn’t turned her back on her. I feel bad for the woman.” Jo put Alene’s hair up into an intricate design with only a few pins and a ribbon. Her perfectly coiffed hair wouldn’t last for long, but Mr. Addison would appreciate the effort.

“Bad for her? Her husband left her because she slept with another man.” Alene gave her hair a soft pat and beamed up at her.

“You don’t know that.” Jo gave Alene a hug and admired her work. “And I expect you two not to spread such a thing. Rose doesn’t believe it and that’s good enough for me.”

“We can’t have you angry at us now,” Clinton said and when he came over and hooked his arm around Jo’s waist, she did her best not to stiffen. Why was he touching her so much? It unnerved her.

“Why? Because I’m the only one who will press your breeches for free?” Jo responded more harshly than she intended and Clinton gave her a wounded look.

“You know that’s not completely true,” Clinton responded smoothly and bestowed her another one of his winks. Jo moved away from his hold and hid her limp the best she could as she folded some of Alene’s wrinkled dresses thrown carelessly over a chair.

“Children, I need to get ready for tonight and your bickering is not helping.” Alene sprayed some sort of flowery perfume around her face and lightly sneezed. “I must prepare for our party tonight.”

“Prepare? What do you have to prepare for? All you have to do is lie down and spread your legs,” Clinton taunted and Alene let out a yell.

“Get out!” Alene pointed to the door and Clinton blew her a kiss as he took hold of Jo’s arm and left the room.

“Wait, I haven’t finished with Alene,” Jo said through her chuckles as Clinton led her away.

When they reached the end of the hall, Clinton stopped and placed his hands on the top of her shoulders. “You do too much for your sister. Let her dress herself for once.”

“Why Mr. Lear, I would say you’re jealous,” Jo dropped her voice to a flirty tone, much like Alene did when she spoke to a gentlemen client. When Clinton didn’t respond as she expected, she bit back a frustrated sigh.

“She takes up most of your time and you have more important responsibilities to take care of. Now you’ll probably have one more thing to do with this Odell woman staying here.”

“I didn’t know you cared so much.” Jo tugged on the cuffs of her dress, giving her hands something to do other than cupping Clinton’s cheeks and kissing him.

“You’re one of the few I do care about, Josephine.”

Jo went still when Clinton’s finger drifted along the side of her face. When he took a step closer and she backed against the wall, his lips quirked in amusement.

“Don’t be frightened. I only want to ki—”

“Jo! Thank god. I need your help.”

Clinton cursed softly as he backed away. Jo didn’t catch what he said but she could tell he wasn’t happy by the irritated look on his face.

“Yes?” Jo said to Tessie, one of the maids in charge of the second floor.

“Laverne is in a snit over her missing mask. She’s going on how Charity stole it and is threatening to tear apart the dress she plans to wear for the party tonight.”

Jo groaned and rapped the back of her head against the wall. “Why did Madam have to hold a masquerade tonight? It’s giving me a headache.”

Humor filled Clinton’s eyes as he swiped a thumb across his mouth.

Tessie tugged on Jo’s sleeve. “Please, please help me. You’re the only one Laverne will listen to.”

“Never a dull moment,” Jo muttered under her breath. “I’ll be there in a minute.”

Tessie clapped and rushed away.

“Duty calls,” Jo said and gave her leg a shake. She really needed to sit down soon before she crumpled to the ground.

“I can carry you if it would help.” Clinton held out his hands and Jo batted them away.

“Don’t you dare. You have to get ready too. The…guests will be here soon and we can’t have you not looking your very best.” She gave him a brittle smile. He would be in high demand tonight. Once the festivities started, he would be enclosed in one of the many rooms available for the clients, pleasuring both men and women for the right price.

“You’re right as always, Miss Jonet.” Clinton’s glib drawl rushed over her. She could only just imagine what he sounded like in bed as he whispered tender words in his lover’s ear as he gave them multiple orgasms.

“Indeed, Mr. Lear.” She gave him a small curtsey. “Away with you.”

“Please make certain you sit down and take a break, unless you really want me to carry you off to your bed to rest.”

Jo squeezed the back of her neck. “You’re an incorrigible flirt, Clinton.”

“It’s part of my charm.” Clinton gave her a boyish smile and with a tug on her unraveling braid, he walked down the hall and to the stairs where he disappeared.

Jo inhaled deeply and wiped her damp forehead. Whenever she was around Clinton she could barely keep two thoughts together. After five years under the same roof, she should have been immune to his charms. But like most of the women, and in some cases, the men who visited Rose’s Delights to purchase Clinton for a few hours, she was enamored with the seductive whore.

Sadness crept up on her. Clinton wouldn’t flirt if he knew how often she dreamt of him in her bed with her hand between her legs as she brought herself relief, crying out his name. A crippled housemaid and a handsome, well-prized whore had no chance of a future together regardless if they were both outcasts.

Chapter Five

Lily had just finished her bath and combed her fingers through her hair, letting it dry. As Sissy unpacked her clothes, she stood at the window watching the carriages drive down the street to their destinations. Tonight she would stay in. She had no parties to attend or invitations to accept. No escort waited down below to show her off in her finest gown as they went on their merry way.

“I think a night in will do you good, Miss Lily,” Sissy said as she hung dresses in the armoire in the corner.

“Fiddle faddle, Sissy. I’ve stayed inside far too many nights over the past week bemoaning my fate. It would serve Beau right if I went out with another man.”

Sissy scratched her head. “But you won’t. It’s bad enough those mean old gossips are waitin’ for you to slip up. If you step out with another man, Mr. Odell will have your head.”

Lily went over to the table where her half eaten dinner lay. She took a sip of water, wishing it was something stronger. Thoughts of alcohol made her stomach rebel. “I can’t stay in this room a minute longer.” She walked back over to the window and watched as two men dressed in formal wear stepped out of a carriage. Soon after, two more carriages pulled up and more men entered the building.

“Sissy, come here and tell me what those men are holding.”

Sissy walked over to the window. “It looks like they have masks.” She snapped her fingers. “When I was down in the kitchen, the cook and some maids were talkin’ about a masked party or somethin’ of the like.”

“You mean a masquerade?” Lily asked.

“I hold a masquerade twice a year for only my most favored clients,” Rose announced as she stood in the doorway of Lily’s bedroom.

Lily went to cover her mouth but then dropped her hand down to her side. She had seen Rose dressed for a night out on the town in the past at various public functions such as the theater and at restaurants, but never in what she wore now. Rose stood on full display wearing a gown of deep crimson with beads lining the hem and a slit up the right side, past her knee. Lined with feathers, her bodice was cut low enough to show off the tops of her breasts. Each breath Rose took pushed her chest forward, where the edge of her nipples showed. Her waist was the tiniest Lily had ever seen it, tightened with strays crossing over her stomach. Her hair was up high on her head and surrounded with small, white pearls among her curls that would come tumbling down if someone sifted their fingers through it.

Lily looked down at her hands as she thought about doing just that. She folded them behind her back and waited as Rose came into the middle of the room.

“I hope you don’t mind the intrusion, but I overheard you and your girl talking about your plans for tonight,” Rose said as she fluffed back her bangs.

Lily licked her lips. “I don’t have any plans and will most likely stay in my room and read before I go to bed.” She lifted up part of her satin nightgown covered by her robe. Without waiting for a response, she went back over to the window and opened it higher, allowing the night air to cool off her flushed face.

“The party will go late into the night, but most of the celebrating will remain on the ground floor. The second floor is where most of the one-on-one activities take place.”

Lily turned back around and gave Rose a head to toe look over. Rose swiveled her hip and placed her hand on her waist. “Do you approve, Mrs. Odell?”

Nibbling on her bottom lip, she stopped before she ended up chewing away the skin there. “You look beautiful tonight. Most of the men won’t be able to stay away from you.”

Rose’s laugh filled the room. “I’m untouchable. I no longer give out my favors for payment. I observe my guests and wait for them to come to me and inquire about one of my girls they want to spend a few hours with. Those days of being bought and sold for a man’s pleasure are long gone for me.”

Lily simply blinked from the harsh tone in Rose’s voice. I can’t even imagine what it must have been like for Rose to be bought by a man for his own sexual gratification. The urge to go to Rose and hold her close made her walk over to her. Rose stared at her with suspicion, and as Lily lifted her hand, Rose grabbed hold of it.

“Don’t feel sorry for me, Lily. I won’t apologize for what I had to do to survive.”

Rose’s hand trembled in Lily’s. She pretended not to notice and gave Rose a bright smile. “I have no right to judge you. There are some things I’ve done I’m not proud of, and like you, I won’t make any apologies either.”

“Good.” Rose nodded, and pulled her hand back.

Lily went to tighten her hold, but decided not to. She simply couldn’t hang on Rose the entire night.

The low ding from the clock on the wall caught her attention. Rose gave it a quick look and rubbed her hands together. “I have to go downstairs to welcome my guests.”

“Will you be wearing a mask too?” Lily asked and folded her hands over her stomach.

“I hadn’t planned on wearing one. But, I do have a mask to match my dress,” Rose said and flicked her feathers on her bodice.

Lily kept her eyes on Rose’s face. She didn’t know how she would explain her stare if Rose caught her ogling her chest with the feathers barely covering her nipples.

“You have a strange expression on your face, like you want to ask me something but don’t know how to go about doing it.” Rose tapped the middle of her chin with her finger.

Lily wiped her palms down the side of her robe. Sissy continued to move around the room, not saying a word, which was unlike her. The covert stares, and the way Sissy kept wrinkling her nose at Rose was a sign of displeasure on her part. Lily had seen it many times—the majority of them directed at her. For once Rose was on the other end.

“And now a secret smile slowly forming,” Rose pointed out. “Whatever is going on in that head of yours, Lily?”

You. Lily did bite down on her lip this time to stop from blurting out Rose’s name. She quickly dropped her mouth into a straight line and relaxed her pose.

“I can’t stay shut up in this room with just Sissy as company. Since I’m residing here as your guest indefinitely, don’t you think I should be…um…involved in the procedures of your...”

“Brothel?” Rose asked.

“Yes. I must admit I’m curious to see how your parties are played out.” Lily’s nerves almost got the best of her as she hurried on. A bead of sweat fell down the side of her throat. “I don’t want to be a participant, but an observer. I think tonight would be ideal because everyone will be wearing masks to disguise their faces. I can do the same.”

“Lily—”

“Please don’t say no.” Lily lifted her palms up. “I’ve been so bored and need to do something with myself or I’ll scream.”

“And watching how whores and their johns interact is your idea of fun? You may be shocked by what goes on here tonight.”

“I’ve seen many upsetting things in my life thanks to the past few years.” Lily swallowed. “Dead bodies lining the road, half naked children roaming the country side, starving women selling their bodies on the street for—”

“Stop right there.” Rose rolled her eyes up toward the ceiling and mumbled something under her breath Lily couldn’t catch. She’d been far too dramatic but wanted to show Rose she was a mature woman and not some fickle bored lady who hadn’t experienced life.

“I can stay by your side the entire time and if you think I should come back up to the safety of my room because things may become too rowdy, I will.” Lily gave her a sunny smile. She crossed her fingers behind her back and rocked slightly to the side. Sissy stood behind Rose and shook her head in bewilderment.

“Maybe it is time you’ve received a lesson. I can’t have you running out into the streets traumatized the moment you see one too many naked bodies or witness any sexual acts you might consider depraved.” Rose pointed out, her voice more playful than serious.

Lily hopped on the balls of her feet. “I promise I won’t faint at the sight of any immoral sex acts I may come across.”

Rose sighed. “I may regret this later, but fine. You may join the entertainment down below. You’ll have to change into something more suitable and wear a mask at all times. Right now there hasn’t been much talk in town about you staying here. I can only imagine the whispers tomorrow if you walked among the men with your face bare.”

“I agree with you.” Lily lost her smile. “But I don’t have a mask. Where would I get one at this late date?”

Rose swiped a finger down Lily’s cheek, tracking a trickle of her sweat. Her skin tingled from Rose’s touch and continued to do so after she pulled away. “Remember how I said I had a mask but wouldn’t wear it? You can.” Rose eyed her from top to bottom and stroked her chin. “I think we can find you a suitable dress to go along with your mask. It may be a tad low in the bosom area, but then again, we’re not living in a convent.”

Lily arranged her palm over her chest and Rose’s lips twitched in humor.

“Stop playing the naïve virgin, it doesn’t suit you.” Rose took hold of Lily’s wrists. “You have a nice chest and should show it off. As long as no one touches, they can admire you as you stand on display like I’ll be doing most of the night to make certain nothing out of the ordinary arises.” Rose glanced at Sissy who remained silent during the entire exchange even though the expression littering her face showed her displeasure. “Sissy, let’s make your mistress ravishing where the men, and perhaps even the women, will salivate for the chance to have an hour alone in her company.”

“But that won’t happen, I mean, you won’t leave me alone with any of those people downstairs?” Lily asked Rose as she tugged her into her suite.

“Only if you want to, pretty Lily.” Rose gave her a smile full of mischief.

* * * *

“Now, when we go downstairs, be aware of your surroundings and if one of the men approaches you, smile and walk away,” Rose rattled off another requirement.

Lily barely nodded, staring captivated at the action below. Masked men wandered around the foyer as they drank and smoked while Rose’s girls mingled among them. She expected the women to be scantily dressed, but most wore ball gowns and dresses comparable to those genteel ladies she knew who attended more respectable affairs.

“Your mask is lopsided. Let me fix it.” Rose straightened Lily’s satin mask that was a shade darker than her garnet evening dress. She remained quiet, concentrating on controlling her nerves.

“I feel like I’m sixteen again and attending my first coming out ball.” Lily placed her palm over her stomach and took in a deep breath.

“There’s nothing to be nervous about. As long as you stay close to me or Tagg, all will be well.”

“Tagg?” Lily asked, not familiar with the name.

“Oh, I’ve forgotten to introduce you to my head groom.” Rose leaned over the banister and waved her fingers. Lily came up next to her and spotted a tall, muscular black man dressed all in white, bare faced, walking through the throngs of people. He climbed the stairs and when he came over to Rose, she linked her arm in his. She smiled up at him while he bowed his head at Lily.

“Tagg, I would like you to meet my friend, Lily. She’ll be staying here for a while.” Rose rubbed Tagg’s arm.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, ma’am,” Tagg said, bowing low to Lily.

“Pleased to me you, Tagg,” she said and went to touch her mask again.

“Stop it.” Rose reached out and squeezed her hands. She faced Tagg again and laughed softly. “This is the first time Lily has been to one of our parties. Can you please spread word to the boys to watch out for her welfare? We wouldn’t want her to get lost in one of the special rooms or dragged away by an amorous guest.”

Special rooms? Lily wished she had investigated or had asked Rose to take her on a tour of the house. Perhaps before the night ended, she would see one of these rooms for herself and find out why they were so singular.

“I’ll guard Miss Lily with my life.” Tagg folded his arms over his chest.

“I don’t think you have to go to such lengths,” Rose admonished lightly and pulled her arm through Lily’s. “If you’re ready, we’ll go down below.”

“Lead the way, Madam,” Lily said, and with Tagg in front of them, walked down the winding staircase.

Harps and violins came from within one of the rooms and the buzz of conversation filtered all around as she and Rose descended. Rose nodded to both men and women, and in turn they greeted her back. Lily glanced around, making certain not to make eye contact with anyone.

Rose took her down the hall and past the masked guests. More black men in white stood next to the wall, watching quietly. By the time she and Rose entered a large room where people where sitting on long triple back sofas or chaise lounges and drinking from flutes or playing card games, she had counted at least ten guards.

“How many guards do you have on watch tonight?” she whispered closely into Rose’s ear.

Rose’s attention remained on the room. “There are always at least ten men on each level in case one of my girls needs their assistance.”

“How often does one of the girls need help?” Lily asked as she viewed the men around her. They all seemed to be jovial sorts, laughing and talking among themselves with a woman or two by their side. She expected the men to grope or drag the women away. But none did. If she were anywhere else, she would have considered this a house party and not a bacchanalia.

“There haven’t been many cases of men becoming too impolite. Some do grow loud and cranky when they’ve had too much to drink. More often than not, a male guest will fall asleep and have to be awakened before dawn approaches.” Rose spoke in an amused whisper. “We spare them the embarrassment of going home to their wives as they’re having breakfast.”

Lily covered her mouth to stop her laughter. Rose gave her a wink and when a servant came by with a tray, Rose grabbed two flutes filled with sparkling pink liquid. She handed one to Lily and raised her glass.

“To friendship and new beginnings.”

“Cheers,” Lily said and sipped the honeyed, slightly tart drink.

When she looked back at Rose, she jerked slightly from the way Rose studied her over the rim of her glass. She almost asked her if something was wrong, but then Rose gave her a satisfied smile. Lily’s throat suddenly felt dry even though she had just drank. Why is she staring at me like that?

“Is something the matter?” she asked warily.

“Nothing at all. What if I told you I’m stunned by your beauty?”

Lily wrapped both hands around her glass. “I’d thank you for the compliment, but it sounds strange coming from a...”

“Woman?” Rose lifted an eyebrow and downed her drink. The tip of her tongue came out and swiped over the corner of her mouth. Lily stalked the subtle, yet suggestive action, and when her chest brushed against Rose, she almost recoiled back.

“Lily, there are no rules tonight. You’re allowed to be whatever you want to be. The mask you wear gives you this freedom. If you long for company with a man, or even a woman, I can obtain one of your choosing.”

“Ah…I’ll keep that in mind,” Lily said weakly. Her face grew warm and she searched for something more to drink.

Rose’s thumb brushed over the inside of her wrist. “After I walk around and make certain my guests are happy and their transactions are to their liking, I can show you one of my favorite rooms where we can watch—”

“Madam, one of the gentlemen has requested permission to speak to you privately in your office.”

Lily blinked and separated from Rose as Jo stood before them. Giving her an abrupt nod, Jo lifted up on her toes and whispered into Rose’s ear.

“Tell Mr. Addison I’ll see him in my office in a few minutes. Please make sure he’s comfortable,” Rose said to Jo, who curtseyed and quickly walked away.

“Duty calls.” Rose sighed and she snapped her fingers. One of the guards came over to her.

“Yes, Madam, how may I serve you?” the dutiful guard asked Rose as he gave her and then Lily a slight bow.

Rose placed her hand on the man’s arm. “Samuel, this is Lily, a close friend of mine. I have to take care of some business and would like you to escort her around.”

“There’s no need for you to do this.” Lily lifted her hand. “I can take care of myself. I can always find Tagg or just go back to my room.”

“Nonsense.” Rose pulled Lily along until they stood in the far corner. Samuel followed behind them in silence.

“I would prefer Samuel stay by your side until I can return.” Rose brushed her fingers over Lily’s shoulder. Rose’s touch made Lily shiver and she went to rub her arm, but then dropped it. The way Rose hovered over her, she didn’t want her to think she had a chill and would force her back up to her room.

“Fine. But only until you return,” Lily conceded.

“That’s a promise,” Rose said with mirth in her voice and with one last caress over her arm she backed away and walked out of the room.

“Does she always get what she wants?” Lily asked Samuel who gave her a half nod. When he didn’t speak, she exhaled loudly. She lifted up on her toes to get a better look. When she heard sounds of a piano, she faced Samuel. “I’m interested in seeing where the music is coming from. Take me there.”

Samuel held out his arm for Lily to precede him. She entered another room and soon found herself among even more masked men and women dancing. But the dancing she witnessed here was unlike any she had seen before. Bodies nestled up against one another and hands roamed over their partner in a way that would give any of her former acquaintances a fit. She smiled, imagining a few of those matrons who attended church and thought about how they would surely faint at the sight. A giggle left her and when a waiter walked by with a tray, she grabbed another flute and sipped the sweet spirit she had enjoyed drinking before with Rose.

Rose, my friend. Liking the way that sounded in her head, she wandered along the side with Samuel trailing her until she sat down in a chair and savored her drink. By the time she finished her second one, her head grew lightheaded. She hummed and tapped her foot as the music became livelier. When Samuel was pulled away to take care of some issue, she told him she wouldn’t move. She soon grew bored, downed her drink and took another, walking the length of the room until she slipped through the crowd and down the hall where smoke floated out from another room. Not only did the men smoke cigars inside, but the women did also. Lily went in, determined to have her first cigar.

* * * *

Alene went over to her Mr. Addison and when he pulled her close, Alene’s entire face lit up. Both hugged and kissed, and when they separated, Alene pulled him away. Rose smiled over Alene’s joy. She and her new protector would celebrate late into the evening. By tomorrow, the rest of her girls would find out Alene would be leaving them to become a mistress to a rich man.

Or so the contract locked away in her safe had stated explicitly. Alene would remain under the care of Mr. Addison for the minimum of five years. The house and all the furnishings he bought would be left in Alene’s name, along with a hefty allowance and settlement if and when they parted ways. Rose felt like patting herself on her back. Alene, like her past predecessors, had gone on to leave Rose’s Delights, and with her help and knowledge, made certain her girls wouldn’t be thrown out on the street after their men tired of them. More than half of the ventures had been successful and even now the majority of her girls were still with their lovers.

Humming under her breath, Rose slowly walked out toward the front to find Lily. She had been away from her for too long. Lately when she and Lily were separated, she felt a sense of loss. Mentally shaking away that feeling, she pulled her lips into a smile.

Some of her guests called out greetings while others tried to catch her attention. She waved them away and quickly moved through the thinning crowd since most of the patrons had left with their companion of choice to one of the rooms where their fantasies would become reality.

Tagg stood next to the front door with his arms crossed, a brooding stare on his face with an agitated looking Samuel next to him.

“Samuel, why aren’t you with Lily?” she asked in a sharp voice.

Samuel shuffled his feet. “I didn’t mean to leave the lady alone, but one of the boys called me over to take care of somethin’. She told me she would stay put. I left her in the dancin’ room, Madam. She was gone when I returned.”

Rose wanted to slap her forehead. An inquisitive Lily roaming alone was not a good thing.

Taking a calm breath, she gave Samuel a relaxed smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll search for her. She couldn’t have gotten far.”

“Madam.”

Rose turned when she heard her name called behind her.

“Dominique. What can I do for you?” she asked, hiding her anxiety over the missing Lily.

Dominique curled her arm around her waist. The woman barely came up to her chin. She was one of her most popular ladybirds since she was open to being with both men and women. Many times she was asked for, especially by a husband and wife who wanted a little variety and excitement in their marriage. When Dominique had come looking for work, she had been the first to experience Dominique’s skills. She smiled and her inner thighs grew damp from recalling the hours of pleasure they once had shared together.

“Yes, dear? You need something?” Rose asked and tugged Dominique over to a tall plotted plant near the staircase.

“I overheard you asking about your friend. While I entertained in the smoking room, she came in asking for a cigar. She never smoked one before and I showed her how to do so. As we had a brandy together, she slipped out her name and why she was here.” Dominique moved in closer. “She was vocal about how lonely she is and seemed sullen. I was wondering...”

“Yes?” Rose asked softly. She knew what was coming next, but wanted to hear it from Dominique.

Dominique licked her full, red lips. “It’s been weeks since I’ve been with a woman and your friend makes me believe she would be open to some fun. If I have your permission, may I take her to one of the viewing rooms where Daniel can join us? I promise we’ll treat her well.”

Rose went still. She’d assumed at one point in the night Lily would seek out companionship, but more of the male variety. Lily might welcome a woman from the attraction she had sensed earlier in the night. But how could she be certain?

“Don’t confuse loneliness on Lily’s part for interest. She’s just separated from her husband and is fragile—”

“She kissed me.” Dominique’s lips curved upward, showing a catlike smile. “I asked her if she knew what she was doing and she said yes. Then she took my face in her hands and placed her lips on mine again.” A dreamy look materialized on Dominique’s face.

“You said she’d been drinking. Maybe too much brandy went to her head.”

“She asked me to show her one of the leisure rooms she’s been hearing about.”

Rose didn’t know how to respond. She hadn’t heard any rumors about Lily having a sexual interest in women. Why would she need to turn to anyone else for sex, least of all the female variety, when she had Beau whom she loved desperately?

“Please let me have her, Madam.”

When Dominique placed her hand on her arm, she relented, ignoring the urge to go to Lily and take her upstairs and make love to her. But she wouldn’t do that. If she changed the dynamics of their relationship too soon, Lily might turn away from her.

“I’ll allow it. But remember, Lily isn’t used to such things. You and Daniel must treat her like gold. I’ll be watching,” Rose said sternly. She might not join in, but she wouldn’t deny herself the pleasure of viewing Lily’s seduction.

“Thank you!” Dominique exclaimed in elation and rushed away

“Are you sure this is wise, Madam?” Tagg asked behind her.

Rose looked at Tagg, not upset at him overhearing her and Dominique’s discussion. She was used to it since Tagg was as much the eyes and ears of Rose’s Delights as she was.

“I have no right to judge. And it may do Lily good to have a few hours of mindless entertainment at the hands of my two most skilled professionals. It’s just too personal if I was involved,” she explained.

“And you never involve yourself, only keeping watch and staying at a distance,” Tagg said.

Rose gave him a rueful smile. “It has to be that way, at least for now.”

“Hopefully only for now and not forever.” With a tilt of his head, Tagg left her.

A moment later, Dominique surfaced, pulling along a still disguised Lily. The women climbed the stairs and Rose gritted her teeth as Dominique’s hand settled against the top of Lily’s buttocks. Lily didn’t push her away, but linked their fingers together. When they reached the second landing, they went to the left and down the hall to where the viewing rooms were.

Rose climbed the stairs, heat building low in her stomach, knowing soon she would witness Lily being well pleasured, all the while wishing she could be the one to help Lily find fulfillment.

* * * *

The moment Lily kissed Dominique, she knew what would happen next. She would welcome the anonymous sex that would follow. The last time she’d been with a woman was when she was seventeen and with Mary. Their lovemaking had been more inexperienced fumbling. Enthusiasm between them made it sweeter. And then as soon as it began, it was over. Marriage for Mary, then war, countless deaths and finally Beau claiming her. Now she would be claimed in an entirely different manner at the hands of this seductive woman whose lips tasted unbearably hot and sweet. She wanted everything Dominique could give her, to wrap her naked body around hers and forget for one night what a disappointment her life had become.

Dominique backed her against the wall. Their breasts rubbed up against one another and she moaned from the chafing of her bodice against her swollen nipples.

Lily bit her lip to stop from moaning too loud, dizzy from the smoke she inhaled and the brandy she drank. “Kiss me,” she whispered.

Dominique dropped her head down against her throat, licking and nibbling there. Lily arched up, wanting Dominique to suck on her throbbing nipples.

Before Lily could pull Dominique up, Dominique took her hand again. They rushed along, muffled cries coming out from behind the closed doors, until they reached a red, nondescript door. Dominique opened it and pulled her in.

Lily took in the room. The walls were carmine and the bed covered in amber blankets and pillows shimmered from the candlelight. The carpet under her feet felt soft. Dominique went over to a large curtain and opened it to a window showing another room. Her eyes widened as a naked woman knelt on the bed and a masked man, also naked, pumped behind her.

Lily whimpered as her cunt released her juices and her face grew red in embarrassment. But she couldn’t turn away from the romping in the other room as the man turned the woman on her back and climbed on top of her. He jabbed his dripping cock into her mouth. She sucked his entire length down as her head bobbed. He plucked her nipples, twisting them hard, making Lily flinch from the phantom pain she felt on her own breasts.

Dominique came up behind her and stuck her hands down her bodice, pulling on her swollen nipples. Lily sobbed and her head fell back. Her mask went askew and as she went to straighten it, Dominique took it off. Slowly, her hand came out from Lily’s dress and she inserted her finger into her mouth, wetting it. With a pop, she pulled her finger out and down near the edge of Lily’s bodice, until her hand disappeared back inside.

“Oh!” Lily moaned as Dominique wiggled her finger, scraping her nail over Lily’s breast. Lily wiggled and rocked her bottom against Dominique’s front, moaning as Dominique licked the side of her throat. She watched as the man in the other room landed back on the bed and the woman lowered her bushy mound over his face. He spread her legs apart and his hand went into her buttocks until his finger glided in between the two ample globes.

“Can they s-see us?” Lily panted and muffled her cry as Dominique tugged down the top of her dress. Shock ran through her body as her breast popped out into the open. Her fingers latched onto Dominique’s hair as Dominique’s head came around and sucked on the side of her breast. Lily swayed, only to be caught by Dominique as she squeezed her ass cheeks.

Dominique walked her back until she met the bed. She sat down, pressing her palms flat on the mattress as Dominique finally took off her mask and knelt, sucking at her chest, taking her nipples into the silky cavern of her mouth. Lily fell back on the mattress when Dominique bit down gently on her distended nipple. She wanted her to bite her harder.

“No.”

Lily wiped her damp forehead and peered down at Dominique in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“The two in the other room can’t see us. We can only see them.” Dominique moved her face over Lily’s stomach. Lily laid her head back and closed her eyes as Dominique lifted her skirt. She waited as Dominique detached the hoop underneath. Then her petticoats were pulled off and Dominique’s warm breath washed across her thighs.

“Let me take care of you,” Dominique said, her tongue circling behind Lily’s knee and up toward the inside of her thigh. She spread kisses along the inside of her leg and Lily’s back bowed as Dominique’s tongue slithered higher and then higher until she lapped over her curls.

Lily cried out as Dominique spread her legs apart. Dominique’s red nails scratched over her hips and her mouth rubbed over her mound, pulling on her swollen flesh.

“Has your cunny ever been kissed?” Dominique asked in a subdued voice.

Lily’s body released more of her juices and Dominique laughed softly. Shame coursed through her. Only Beau’s mouth had given her such an intimate kiss. Now she allowed a total stranger access to her body and engaged in wicked acts she had practiced with Beau.

“No-no. Only one man has kissed me on my...”

“Cunny,” Dominique hissed the word, and as she dragged her nails down the length of Lily’s legs she stuck her face against Lily’s pussy, sucking down hard.

Dominique’s mouth tugged on Lily’s cunt hairs and her tongue swiped over her seam, lapping her wet folds where she squirmed, unable to remain still. Sweat formed on her face and chest and she grabbed her knees, to move her legs farther apart. Dominique gave a murmur of delight and Lily continued moaning as Dominique ate away at her.

“Delicious,” Dominique whispered against Lily’s core, blowing over her sensitive flesh that made her body weep in pleasure.

Lily’s nipples grew to beaded points and she plucked at them, wishing another set of hands could stroke them. She didn’t hear the door opening as her body reacted to Dominique’s mouth ravishing her. When the bed dipped down, she turned her head and gasped in surprise.

A broad, well-built masked man with tawny colored hair sat there with no shirt on, in only his breeches. He cracked his knuckles and stared down at her with lust.

“Who are you?” she moaned as Dominique fingers joined her tongue, twisting and rubbing over her hard nubbin that made her gush even more of her feminine juices.

“I’m a gift from Madam Ware,” the man responded, pressing his hands down on either side of her.

Lily went to move back, but Dominique pulled away and rested her chin on Lily’s stomach. A dimple appeared on her right cheek. Her hazel eyes sparkled with lust as well, including desire, both of which were aimed at Lily. “Don’t be afraid. This is Daniel. We always play with our clients together. Madam Ware has offered both of us for you to enjoy.”

“With both of you?” Lily asked, her mind fuzzy. “How is that possible?”

“We’ll show you,” Daniel whispered and his tongue came out and landed over her breast.

Lily closed her eyes and sighed as Daniel swallowed her nipple whole. Her hands clawed the bedding and she lifted up against Daniel’s face. He proceeded to suck deep, moving his mouth back and forth across her chest.

Lily’s head shifted from side to side as Daniel laved her breasts and Dominique continued feasting in between her legs. Soon it became too much for her and with a loud cry, she flew apart.

Her wheezing filled her ears as her arm covered her face, ashamed from having such an intense reaction. She heard movement around her and when she found the strength to open her eyes, Dominique and Daniel stood naked next to each other. Daniel cupped Dominique’s breast while she stroked his cock.

He’s so large! How will I ever be able to take him inside of me?

Daniel’s prick swelled from its nest of groin hair, its head damp with fluid. On each side, his ample sacs jiggled as he flexed his legs.

Lily sat up, taking a quick look to see if the people in the next room were still there. No one remained inside. She turned her attention back to the scene unfolding before her.

Dominique knelt and took Daniel’s cock into her mouth. The need to get down on her knees and worship Daniel’s abundant flesh made her salivate. It had been far too long since she had a meaty cock in her mouth.

The mask Daniel wore flew to the ground and he stumbled away from Dominique. Daniel’s cum and Dominique’s spit covered the head of his penis. He walked over to Lily with smoldering intent in his eyes.

“Now it’s your turn, my lady.” He held out his hand and she went to him, allowing him to finish undressing her and trying not to blush as she became unclothed. The only other man she had ever been naked with was with Beau.

Thoughts of her soon to be ex-husband made her bold. She lifted up and kissed Daniel’s mouth. He chuckled, his mint flavored breath mingling with hers. He stroked her breasts and she lifted her leg high against his thigh. His cock brushed her pussy and her core clenched.

“I want you inside of me,” she stated, biting down on his lip. His eyes dipped, concentration filling his face. Lily reached down to push his cock inside of her when Dominique came over to join them.

Lily turned and faced Dominique who combed her fingers through her hair. Lily went to kiss her, but Dominique fingered Lily’s lips, shaking her head no. She pushed Lily onto the bed, caressing her face with her nails. When Dominique landed on the bed, Lily turned on her side and faced her. Dominique grabbed her around the waist and ground her cunt against Lily’s. They rocked together, their feminine bushes making a delicious friction together.

Dominique nibbled Lily’s earlobe and slithered her palms down her chest and stomach. When her hand went behind her buttocks and fingered her anus, Lily jolted and hid her face against Dominique’s shoulder.

“Do you like this, sweet?” Dominique asked and one of her fingers slid inside Lily’s ass.

Lily clenched down on the finger, her face blazing hot. She rocked against the intrusive digit, her juices dripping down her legs.

“Yes, merciful heaven, yes!” Lily said in a near scream.

“Let’s take you to Heaven then, shall we?” Daniel spoke from behind her and when his front met her back and he wrapped his hands around her waist, she cried out as his cock slapped her ass.

Dominique’s mouth met hers and she ran her tongue over her lips, her saliva coating her chin, not caring about the mess she had made. She wanted more…so much more.

Daniel huffed loudly in her ear as he encased his cock in a sheath he grabbed from a bowl on the bedside table. He rocked his dick against her lower back. Fondling her breasts, his thumbs rubbed over her nipples until they become sharp points. Guttural, crude words left his mouth and flowed into her ears.

“You want Dominique to bite your tits while I fuck you. Don’t you?” Daniel said with each hard bump.

“Yes…yes!” Lily shouted and reached behind to grab hold onto the back of Daniel’s head.

He laughed low and lifted her leg up where his cock nudged forward to find her pussy.

“You’re so wet,” he moaned and with one final push, found his way inside her.

“Ah!” Lily groaned and twitched around Daniel’s hard member. Never had she been so filled. She jerked down, trying to take more of him in, the burn building low.

Dominique hovered over Lily’s breasts. Her tongue circled Lily’s nipple and as Daniel pumped, her teeth took captive of the hard nub.

Lily rocked back and forth with Daniel and she grabbed hold of Dominique’s head. Her entire body was slick with sweat and her juices mingled with Dominique’s own. All three gasped, their cries breaking the silence in the room.

Dominique released Lily’s nipple and moved down until her face lingered over Lily’s mound. Her tongue came out and ran over Lily’s clit as Daniel’s cock thrust deep into her core. His abundant flesh combined with Dominique’s tongue made her lose all sense and she screamed her release loudly.

Daniel pulled out of her, his cock smacking her buttock as he came. Lily wrinkled her nose over the smell of musk and sex and dug her nails into Dominique’s back as she continued lapping over her clit.

“I cannot go on,” Lily said in a moan as Daniel turned her on her back. Dominique glided up and shared a kiss, her mouth a suction over Lily’s shaking one. Lily’s juices hit her tongue as Dominique licked the roof of her mouth. She whimpered from the unsettling taste as tears slipped down her cheeks. Dominique tracked them with her tongue and Lily hugged her tightly, overcome with emotion and the release she had given her.

“We have hours yet,” Daniel said in a raspy voice and kissed the inside of Lily’s knee, moving down until he sucked her inner thighs.

Lily had no choice but to let Daniel’s mouth bring forth another climax while Dominique moved apart her ass cheeks and her tongue went inside, flicking to-and-fro.

Lily’s moans filled the bed chamber until her voice grew raw. Only when she came another time did her two bedmates allow her to rest.

And then soon enough they worked on her again and she welcomed it.

* * * *

Rose longed to take off her dress and stand in only her chemise and finger herself as Lily climbed on top of Daniel and rode him. Lily’s hands curled around the iron headboard as she rocked over Daniel and kissed Dominique who squeezed and plucked at her nipples. Rose’s mouth went dry at the sight of Lily’s perfect breasts. She wished she could take Dominique’s place. As soon as Lily came and finished with Daniel, she would have walked into the room naked, pulled Lily off the bed and backed her against the wall where she’d kiss the breath out of her and slip her fingers in every hole of Lily’s to bring her yet another climax. But the time wasn’t right. Lily needed a friend, not a lover who would take all she had to give. In some cases she was selfish, but in regards to Lily, she would refrain…but not for much longer.

A sharp cry brought her back to the scene in front of her. With her eye to the dime size hole, Rose slapped her palms against the wall as Lily found her climax. Her head dropped back as she fell on top of Daniel. She didn’t move even as Dominique brushed her hair away from her face and left kisses on the back of her shoulder.

Rose released a shutter, her body on the brink of an orgasm. And when she pushed three fingers inside herself and rubbed her thumb over her clit in fast strokes, she bit down on her arm to stop from crying out Lily’s name.

Chapter Six

Her entire body ached. But Lily didn’t have any complaints and stretched her arms high above her head. A sleepy smile surfaced on her face and she turned on her side, enjoying the soft cotton sheets tickling her naked body.

What an incredible night! For the first time in a very long time she felt refreshed and at peace. Who knew hours of outrageous, wickedly satisfying sex could be so invigorating?

Sitting up slowly, she winced and cracked her neck from side to side. She had gone to bed quite late, escorted up to her room by Daniel. She had asked him if he wanted to join her, but he politely refused, stating he never slept with his clients. He left her with a kiss on her brow and after a quick sponge bath, she went to bed and fell right to sleep.

Lily rested her cheek on her knees. Her pussy pulsed as she remembered the way Daniel’s immense cock felt inside her, as well as Dominique’s talented tongue that made her almost die from the amount of climaxes she’d experienced. Not even Beau had given her so many.

Smug over that interesting fact, she counted off on her fingers the amount of times she peaked last night. She fell back on the bed giggling and wiggled all ten of her fingers.

A knock came on the door connecting to Rose’s suite. Lily sat up and cleared her throat before she gave the person permission to enter.

Rose came in wearing a subdued, amber colored dress with a jacket bodice and black ribbon lined down the middle. Her hair was clipped back in a loose braid. She looked at least ten years younger and Lily smiled at her, patting the bed for her to join her.

Rose gave her a wary look, which Lily found odd. She’d never seen Rose act in such a way.

“Good morning, or is it afternoon? How late is it?” Lily asked as she pushed aside the sheet and got up from the bed. She bit her lip, wincing and walked carefully over to the window to pull open the shades and the curtains apart. Bright light filled the room and she rubbed her eyes, momentarily blinded from the sun.

“A little past noon. Most of the house is still abed.” Rose covered her mouth as she yawned. “I don’t expect my girls to be up and about until later this afternoon. After a party like last night, I allow them and the staff to have the day off to recover.”

Lily found that to be a sound idea and went back to sit on the edge of the bed. “Shouldn’t you still be in bed then?”

Rose brushed the wrinkles away from her skirt. “I don’t need much sleep.”

“You look exhausted. Perhaps a nap later on is in order,” Lily recommended.

Playing with the wisps of her hair, Rose glanced around the room.

“What’s the matter? Why aren’t you looking at me?” Lily asked.

“Nothing is wrong. I wanted to know how you’re feeling and if you liked your… gift,” Rose said in a modulated tone.

Lily snorted and got off the bed until she stood next Rose. A blush stained her cheeks and Lily swallowed a laugh over the sight. “Why Mrs. Ware, I’m in shock that you, a woman of the world who has seen and done things no woman in their right mind would admit to, is embarrassed. I’m not sure what to think.”

Rose cleared her throat, her eyes wandering around the room until they fell on her face. Lily’s lips tipped up in a wide smile.

“I wasn’t sure if you would want to see me today after your experience last night. When Dominique asked me for permission to be with you and then recommended Daniel join you, I—”

Lily gently fingered Rose’s mouth. “Hush. You’re rambling. Your gift, as you call it, was exactly what I needed. I know I shouldn’t admit it, and my poor parents would roll over in their graves if they knew what I did last night and with whom, but it was very freeing.”

“Freeing?” Rose asked under Lily’s hand.

“Yes, I feel like a new woman.” Lily lifted her arms and turned in a circle. “Now I can understand why some women would seek out this line of work.”

Rose released a harsh laugh. “What occurred last night isn’t always normal. You should remember that. I don’t think you’re even close to being ready for this type of employment, unless you’re serious. If then—”

“I’m teasing.” Lily patted Rose’s cheek, keeping her palm there. Rose’s eyes softened. “I may be a wanton in the bedroom, but my encounter last night will be a onetime event. I prefer more physical encounters with someone I can trust and care about.”

“I’m glad you feel that way. But if the need ever arises, you are more than welcome to engage one of my girls or any of the men for another night. If you’re not comfortable asking, I can always come to your aid if you want,” Rose said the last statement in a rushed whisper that Lily almost didn’t catch. My aid? Whatever does she mean?

Rose shook her head and finally removed her hand. She opened her mouth to ask Rose for a better explanation when her stomach growled. “I believe I should eat something before I faint from hunger.”

“I have a lovely luncheon set out. Would you care to join me in my repast? While we eat, I have another proposal to discuss with you.”

“Proposal? It sounds naughty.” Lily grabbed her robe off her chair and when she turned back around, Rose stared at her with something close to hunger in her eyes. Confusion crept back into her head. She must still be recovering from the passion she had succumbed to last night. That had to be the only explanation for the strange way Rose was acting around her.

“It’s a business proposal and not one dealing with the selling of flesh,” Rose added, and as Lily tightened the belt of her robe around her waist, Rose walked over to help her fix her hair. Lily stood there under Rose’s administrations, feeling the need to press her palm against her cheek again. As she lifted her hand, Rose nodded her head in approval and stepped back.

“I wish I had hair like yours. Perhaps you’ll allow me to brush it?” Rose grabbed a strand of Lily’s hair.

“Only Sissy brushes my hair.” She swallowed, frozen as Rose’s swept a hand around her ear.

“You can make an exception for me,” Rose murmured, her fingers reaching under Lily’s nape and scratching gently. “I can only imagine what it must feel like as it falls over your chest as you’re getting dressed or sitting in a bath.”

Lily palmed her chest, her nipples tingling as she envisioned that scene, but with Rose joining her in the bath with their hair covering them both as their hands skimmed across their bodies among the warm, scented water...

“Lily?” Rose’s voice broke through her sudden day dream. Rose’s arms were at her sides and she watched her perplexed.

“Sorry, I was thinking about a bath. I’d like one later today if that’s possible?”

“It shouldn’t be a problem.” Rose cleared her throat. “Should we have lunch then? I’m famished.”

“You and I are in agreement there,” Lily said and when Rose turned and walked into her room, Lily followed, folding her hands together to stop from reaching out and brining Rose’s hair to her face to sniff.

She couldn’t explain this sudden reaction she had toward Rose. Last night must have unleashed a carnal demon inside her.

But the only naked body she now wanted was Rose’s. And that not only made her nerves rise, but also made her quiver with need to be with the woman who only thought of her as a friend.

* * * *

“Rough night?”

Jo turned her blurry eyes toward Sissy and lifted her shoulders in a weak shrug. She lifted her coffee and sniffed it, willing the steam of the strong brew to wake her up.

Sissy poured herself a cup from the burner and sat down next to her. Jo took a sip and then propped her chin on her palm, trying her best not to nod off.

“Why don’t you go back to bed?” Sissy asked.

Jo glared at Sissy from the corner of her eye. “I can’t. I have to help my sister get ready for an early dinner she has with her gentleman friend. Then the rest of the girls will be up and about and I’ll have to advise the maids in dressing them for their evenings out also.”

“Shoot, I’d tell those spoiled women to take care of their own selves.” Sissy made a face and raised her cup in the air. The kitchen maid sweeping the floor snickered and Jo tapped her fingers on the table.

“Shouldn’t you go do your job and help dress your mistress for the day?” Jo said in a snide tone and finished off her coffee. Why can’t I have a moment of peace in this house?

“Miss Lily is still sleepin’. She’ll call when she needs me. The poor woman wouldn’t know what to do without me. I’ve been with her since she was knee high,” Sissy said proudly.

“Must be nice. Does she still think of you as her slave?” Jo shot back.

Sissy frowned and the maid with the broom gasped in shock.

“Someone got out on the wrong side of the bed,” Sissy responded and stared down at the table, a sad look crossing her face.

Jo wiped her face with her palms. “Forgive me. I’m cranky and tired. Last night was draining,” she pointed to her leg. “I have aches on top of aches. And it’s not from rolling around in bed with someone,” she mumbled and Sissy and the maid broke out in laughter.

“Then why don’t you become a lady of the night? Why stick to being a housekeeper?” Sissy asked.

Jo waved a hand around. “Take a look at me. Even if wanted to be a whore, I couldn’t. I have a bum leg and my face is nothing men would go crazy over. All I’m good for is being a servant. I’m lucky Rose took me and Alene in when she did.”

“Looks don’t mean a thing when all a man thinks about is sticking his pecker into a woman’s snatch,” Sissy stated.

Snatch? Jo shook her head in bemusement. “If only that were true. Rose’s Delights boasts the most beautiful women in all of Charleston. I can’t compare and would never have a chance. I’d be back to making beds instead of lying in them in less than a week.”

“You’re wrong, Josephine.”

Jo pitched in her chair as Clinton appeared in the doorway. He folded his arms over his broad chest and regarded her with his mouth in a straight line.

“See, he’s a man, and he doesn’t think you’re lackin’ with your looks,” Sissy said, getting up from her seat. “I better go see if my mistress needs anything before she screams down the house wonderin’ where I am.”

Sissy left the room and the maid went out back. She and Clinton were all alone.

“I should see if Alene—”

“Wait a moment, Jo.” Clinton walked over and sat down across from her. He smiled and a piece of his hair fell over his brow. She itched to brush it away but fisted her hand against her lips.

“You don’t look too tired. Early night for you?” Jo asked, afraid to hear his answer.

Clinton folded his hands on the table. “I asked for last night off. I’ve barely had a night to myself in months and since the party was more for the girls, Rose let me.”

“Oh. You made me think…never mind. That’s why I didn’t see you around then,” Jo said a bit stupefied. She had seen some of the male guests go up the stairs with the male whores Rose kept on retainer. She found it funny Rose would let Clinton rest a night when he could make a hefty sum for the house.

“I went out with a friend for dinner and then for a pint at a bar.”

What type of friend? She chewed on her lip. “That sounds…nice.”

Clinton’s face brightened and his eyes grew warm. “My friend wasn’t a woman if that’s what you want to know.”

“Me? Why would I care who your friend was,” she responded indifferently and stood, moving to the side of the table.

Clinton got up from his chair, his eyes filled with impish delight. “We don’t get to talk alone very often. You’re always busy taking care of the house and the girls, and me with my clients—”

Jo held up her hands. “We’re both working people and have jobs to do. Now if you—”

When Clinton took hold of her arms, Jo went still. She swallowed as he stared at her with not only tenderness, but with heat in his eyes.

“What do you want from me, Clinton?” she asked quietly.

Clinton pulled her in close and she held back a moan. She longed to wrap her arms around him and rest her cheek on his chest.

“I’m afraid if I say what I want, you’ll run away from me.”

“I won’t run away from you. I never have,” Jo said and put her hands on his chest.

Clinton’s thumbs brushed over her shoulders and she silently urged him to move them over her collarbone and down further. For once she wanted to know what it felt like to have a man touch her breasts and play with them as she came long and hard. She could ask Clinton. He wouldn’t deny her, but she didn’t want him to do it because he pitied her.

A banging sound came down the hall and they both separated. Two maids walked in talking and they sat down at the table with a pile of clothes and needle and thread. Clinton pulled her over to the back door. Jo rested against the wall, placing her palms against the hard wood.

“I really need to go,” she said, but didn’t make a move to leave.

Clinton gave her a content smile. “If I let you go, you must promise me one thing.”

Jo raised her eyebrow. “And what would that promise be, Mr. Lear?”

Clinton’s face moved in closer to hers. She held her breath as his lips barely brushed her cheek. “Promise me you’ll never talk down about yourself again.”

Jo shook her head. Why did he care either way what she thought about herself?

“I don’t believe you, but we can work on changing your thinking.” Clinton kissed her cheek and gave her arm a gentle squeeze. He backed away and then waved at the two maids. The women giggled behind their hands.

“Oh, and Josephine?”

“Yes, Clinton?” Jo asked, her knees shaking, but not because of her bad leg.

“The next time I have a free night, I’m taking you out to dinner and dancing.”

Jo sputtered as Clinton winked and left the room without a backward glance. When Clinton was out of sight, she opened the back door and stumbled up the stairs to the outside where she sat down on a bench. She hid her flaming face into her palms as she rocked. Dancing? He wants to take me dancing?

Jo cut off a scream ready to erupt from her throat and settled for pressing her hand against her lower stomach where the pull in between her legs had become far too strong. The irritating tingling grew until she couldn’t take it much longer.

“Damn him. I can’t walk around like this,” she muttered and staggered over to the small shed where the laundry was located to take care of personal matters.

Only when she had calmed down and her legs no longer shook, she went back inside to wash away her release from her hands.

* * * *

“What a lovely suggestion to take a turn around the park,” Lily said as she walked beside Rose with their parasols over their heads to keep them cool from the sun. She wore a straw bonnet with a yellow ribbon to match her dress, while Rose wore a bonnet with green silk taffeta under her chin, covering her chignon.

“I don’t take many walks. It’s nice to get out and about with you,” Rose said.

Lily’s cheeks grew warm from Rose’s compliment. “This is a lovely park. I wished I knew about it sooner,” she said as she glanced around. The greenery and trees were lush with bushes and colorful flowers.

“You always lived on the eastern side of the city. Here is where more of the working class resides,” Rose responded lightly and began walking again.

Does she think I’m a snob? Shaking her head, she rushed up to Rose and slipped her hand through Rose’s arm. Surprise and then delight spread across Rose’s face.

“I’m ashamed to say I’ve barely came to this end of Charleston while married to Beau. He wanted to make a name for himself after the war and made certain we interacted with people who had money and prestige.”

Rose snorted. “Oh yes, how could I forget Beau’s obsession with being respected and reviled at the same time.”

Lily gave Rose a confused stare over the bitterness she heard in her voice. If anyone should be bitter, it should be her. Whatever had Beau done to Rose?

“If anyone knows Beau’s faults, it’s me.” Lily squeezed Rose’s elbow in consolation.

“Forgive me.” Rose halted and faced Lily with an apologetic expression. “I should be more aware about what I say, especially when it involves your husband.”

“I don’t mind.” Lily shrugged. “Maybe you can give me more insight on Beau and why he acts the way he does.”

“Have you heard from him lately?” Rose asked and started walking again.

“Only through his lawyer. On Tuesday I meet with Beau where we’ll go over our assets and start the process of terminating our marriage.” Lily’s throat tightened and she moved her parasol closer to her face to hide the tears forming in her eyes.

“I assume Beau will give you a hefty settlement?” Rose asked and peeked under her parasol.

Lily shook her head. “He better. He owes me that at least.”

“Good. That’s what I’m expecting.”

“Why? So I can finally move out of the Delights and find my own place to stay? You want to get rid of me already?”

“Not at all,” Rose said strongly, with a hint of worry. “Remove that idea from your mind this instant.”

“Dear Mrs. Ware, I’m not going anywhere yet,” Lily replied in an easy tone.

Rose closed her parasol and tapped the pointed edge on the ground. “You must think I’m a ninny. I don’t have many close female friends and I’ve come to think of you as one. I-I’m glad we’ve grown close.”

A prickling warmth covered Lily from head to toe. Who would have thought a lady like herself would be pleased as punch to have a brothel madam think of her in such a way?

“Fiddle faddle.” Lily waved her hand around. “Your staff at the Delights love you.”

“But they’re paid servants. Most of them wouldn’t give me the time of day if they were in a different situation.” Rose sniffed and opened her reticule.

“Oh, Rose, don’t say such a thing,” Lily said and waited as Rose wiped her eyes with her handkerchief.

“Blast it all to hell. I’m usually not so weepy. I blame it on the recent letter Georgette sent me.”

“Georgette?” Lily asked, intrigued.

“Ah, Georgie…Georgette is my daughter.”

Lily’s jaw dropped and she froze. Daughter? “Wh-what?”

Rose blew her nose and took hold of Lily again and made her way down the path to the exit of the park. “You didn’t know? Beau must have told you.”

“He never did. If he had, I would have remembered.” Lily closed her parasol and clenched her fists around the handle.

Rose shook her head sadly. “Georgie lives with my sister Caroline in New Orleans. She’s just turned fourteen.”

“She’s not,” Lily swallowed. “Beau’s?”

Rose laughed and covered her mouth. “Oh, dear god no. Beau is most certainly not Georgie’s father. The last time he saw her, she was only an infant. Her father died before she was born.”

“I’m so sorry. I jumped to conclusions—”

“Why apologize? If I were in your shoes, I would have asked the same thing.”

Lily chewed on her lip and then cleared her throat. And awkward silence fell between them. Rose stared at a large, brick mansion on the corner across the street.

“Georgie and I write each other once a week and I’m due for a visit. It’s been nine months since I last saw her and she’s slowly transforming into a beautiful woman. I’ve missed out on most of her childhood and would like to be there as she enters adulthood.”

“Why can’t you do that? You must make a tidy sum from the Delights?” Lily asked.

Rose half-shook her head. “I’ve done well for myself, but I’m not ready to retire yet. But I have a plan to speed things up.” She gave her a shrewd look. “Perhaps you can help me with it?”

“Is this in regards to the proposal you mentioned earlier?”

“Yes. See the vacant mansion over there?” Rose pointed to the boarded up four story building overrun with vines and plants. The outside balconies were in desperate need of a coat of paint and the roof required fixing as well.

“It’s quite large,” Lily stated.

“It has over thirty five rooms with a seventy foot domed ceiling and a forty foot covered glass skylight, including an awe inspiring entrance hall triple the size of the one at the Delights. I want to buy it. For a long time I’ve wanted to expand my business and buy another property where men and women can gamble and whore the night away if they so desire.”

“Like a gaming hall?” Lily asked, thinking back to when she used to read those Gothic novels when she was younger and the hero either owned such a place or visited one.

“You could say that. The only gambling is done on riverboats. Why not take over this building here and transform it into a type of exclusive club where one would pay an exorbitant fee to be a member of? This would revitalize Charleston and the economy. I already met with someone at the town hall to discuss the venture and explained how my club would create new jobs and put money back into the city. All I need is a backer, a partner to help me with the rest of funds needed.”

“And you want me to be one of your backers?”

“Only you, Lily. No other. There’s no one else I trust,” Rose responded.

Lily rubbed the tip of her finger over her mouth, her chest constricting from Rose’s honesty. “That’s why you asked me about my future settlement from Beau.”

Rose nodded and leaned back against the lamp post with her arms folded behind her. Her stance caused the upper globes of her breasts to emerge over the top of her dress. Lily took a moment to appreciate the sight until she heard Rose cough.

“Sorry, I was woolgathering,” she replied feebly.

Rose smirked and gave Lily’s chest a quick peek. “You’re sharp and intelligent. That’s exactly the type of person I want to have for a partner. And imagine how Beau will feel when he finds out you’ve taken his money and invested it with me? He’ll be mortified.”

“I’m not sure I like that look in your eyes.” Lily stated, uneasy over the penetrating, almost malicious stare Rose gave her.

Rose’s eyes dimmed a little and a blush stained her cheeks. “I tend to get over excited. That’s one thing you should know about me.”

“When it comes to buying things?” Lily asked although another, more personal question lurked in her mind concerning Rose and her ways in the bedroom.

“With most things.” Rose’s eyes grew heavy. “It all depends who’s there to witness it.”

The persistent tingle in between Lily’s legs that had been unrelenting since last night grew to an almost fevered pitch. She shifted her legs and decided to change the conversation. This current one wasn’t doing anything for her disposition. “We’ve gotten off the topic. I need to know the true reason you want me to be a part of this. Is it a way for you to get back at Beau for whatever wrong he’s done to you or do you think I would be a welcomed asset?”

“A little of both.” Rose moved behind Lily and rested her chin on her shoulder as she lightly grasped her hips.

Lily grew startled by the open display, then calmed when she noticed the sidewalk and street were empty.

“You survived during the war based on your wits alone. You don’t need a man like Beau to protect you any longer. Why not show him and all those who turned their backs on you that you’re better than them? You’re a fighter, Lily Dunne just like me. Let’s make a go of it together and set the city on fire.”

Lily glanced at Rose, her cheek rubbed against Rose’s smooth one. “You know my maiden name,” she replied softly, wonder filling her voice.

Rose’s warm breath brushed over the side of Lily’s throat. Her face grew warm and she considered the house that could help her with a bright new future.

“I know more about you then I let on. I’ve…come to care for you and there’s no one else I’d rather have as a business partner.” Rose squeezed Lily’s hip. “What do you say?”

“I’ve lost so much already. What’s one more thing? My Papa always said I was reckless and didn’t think things through. I can count this endeavor with you as one more thing to add to that list.”

Lily allowed Rose to turn her around. She slightly jerked from Rose rubbing her hip. She didn’t back away, but continued standing there as the warmth of Rose’s skin seeped through her dress.

“This is not recklessness on your part. And you don’t have to worry about thinking things though. I’ll do all the work for you. All I need is some of your money and for you to say yes.”

A laugh left Lily’s mouth. “If I didn’t know you better, I’d say you’re a con artist looking to steal my fortune.”

Rose’s lips twitched. “If you need letters of recommendation about my reputation, I have a house full of women who will support me, as well as the many gentlemen who reside here in the city.”

Lily giggled and rolled her eyes. “Don’t be surprised if I go ahead and do that.”

Rose grabbed hold of her hand. “The suspense is killing me. Do you accept my offer?”

“There’s a great deal more to talk about. Perhaps you need to work on convincing me some more.”

“Oh really? How about this?”

Rose pulled Lily in close and without forewarning, placed her mouth on Lily’s lax one. Shock filled Lily from head to toe as Rose’s skillful lips sucked gently over hers. She gasped and her tongue tangled with Rose’s. She swiped over her bottom lip and then the inside of her cheek. Lily fell back against the lamppost and dug her fingers into Rose’s arms. She moaned softly and tilted her head to get better access to Rose’s mouth that continued moving around hers in deep strokes. Their breaths mingled and Lily inhaled, shuddering almost violently as her knees locked together and her inner thighs compressed against one another to stop her juices from wetting her legs.

Rose finally broke the kiss and pressed her forehead against Lily’s. Her nipples tightened and her cunny swelled with the demand to be petted and touched.

“I’ve wanted to kiss you since the moment I saw you at the Marelton.” Rose licked her lips and brushed her fingertips down Lily’s cheek.

“Really? I had no idea?” Lily said through her heavy breathing.

“I’m good at hiding my feelings.” Rose moved her face away and placed her palms against the middle of Lily’s chest. “Why, Miss Lily, I do believe your heart is racing.”

“Why shouldn’t it? You gave me one of the most amazing kisses I’ve ever received.” Lily linked their fingers together.

“I have a hard time believing you, but it’s a nice compliment nevertheless. So, have I convinced you I’m true and can be trusted?”

With my money or with my heart? Lily stepped aside and contemplated the house again. It gave her an excuse to pull her head together and control her racing heart.

“I’ll have to sign a contract?”

Rose’s touched her lightly on the back. “Of course. Everything will be documented and signed. You can even have a lawyer look over the papers. I insist.”

“I should know how much Beau means to give me when I see him. I can count on it being a tidy sum.”

“Now, I don’t want to press you. I understand if you had other plans for the money.”

Like leaving this heartless city and running away where no one knows who I am? Lily released a watery sigh. She suddenly felt like crying.

“Lily?” Rose asked in a careful voice and then when her arms came around Lily again, she fell back against Rose, content to be held, regardless if anyone saw them.

“Have you given any thought to what you would name the gambling den or club?” Lily asked and stared down at her hands.

“I think Lily’s Rose has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”

Lily wiped under her eyes and gave Rose a big smile. “It sounds lovely. I’m almost speechless you would have my name first.”

Rose’s shoulders lifted. “You have a beautiful name. It’s very feminine.”

“Much like yours,” Lily responded and blinked away the tears remaining in her eyes. “Men might find the name too floral for their tastes.”

“They don’t seem to mind visiting a place called Rose’s Delights,” Rose replied dryly.

Lily pulled her arm through Rose’s and motioned for her to walk. “I’d like to take a closer look at the building before I sign anything. Let’s discuss decorating the inside and fixing the outside, as well as when we should expect our club to open.”

“See, already thinking like a business woman,” Rose said proudly and patted Lily’s hand.

Lily glowed under Rose’s compliment as they both walked back to what she had come to think of as her home. As Rose chattered on about their club, tentatively named, Lily’s Rose, she nodded and smiled, even though on the inside her heart felt like bursting all because she had become undone from one passionate kiss. And if she had to sign her name on a contract to receive more of Rose’s kisses, so be it.

Chapter Seven

After she and Lily had a light snack and Lily excused herself to take a nap, the letter came. Rose recognized Margaret Anne’s perfectly curved handwriting. She had a stack of letters hidden in her desk filled with grandiose words of love and devotion. But Margaret Anne was smart, never signing them with her name and only with the letter ‘A’. She did so because Rose had once called her by her middle name in a moment of passion and it stuck. Rose wanted Margaret Anne to become unstuck to her. She’d become a nuisance that needed to be taken care of and quickly before Lily found out.

Ah, Lily. Most likely wearing nothing but a short negligee as she sleeps undisturbed. What would she do if I interrupted her nap and climbed into bed with her?

Tapping the envelope against her chin, Rose grinned and walked over to the window. It had been such a lovely day walking with Lily and finally kissing her. Lily had tasted as sweet as she imagined she would be and she had to stop herself from pulling her into her bedroom and kissing her more, which would lead to them becoming naked. But she had to take her time and wait until Lily signed the contracts for the club. Then she would know for certain Lily wasn’t going anywhere. They could celebrate their new partnership with champagne poured over parts of their bodies, licking it off...

“What in the world is she doing?” Rose shook her head as a familiar woman wearing a huge bonnet on top of her head and her face covered with a veil threw stones up at the window. They pinged against the glass and Rose stuck her head out.

“Margaret Anne, stop!” she hissed down below, glad her sitting room faced the back of the house and not the front.

“I need to see you now,” Margaret called up and lifted the veil away from her face. Tear marks tracked her cheeks and her eyes were bloodshot.

Rose examined the closed door to Lily’s bedroom. When Lily didn’t come rushing out, she relaxed.

“Stay where you are, I’m coming down,” she said and walked across the room and out into the hallway. She stomped down the staircase where she gave Jo and Clinton a terse greeting as she passed them both on the second landing. She didn’t stop to question why Jo’s lips were swollen or why a disheveled Clinton, his shirt hanging outside his breeches and his hair unkempt, bracketed Jo against the wall. She had more pressing matters to deal with at the moment, mainly concerning an emotionally unstable Margaret Anne Bourdieu.

When she hit the ground floor, she hurried down into the kitchen and out the back door and up the steps. Margaret Anne stood near the arbor, twisting a wrinkled handkerchief. Her fretting demeanor vanished and her face glowed as Rose made her way over to her.

“Rose! It’s been far too long since I’ve seen you!”

Rose took hold of Margaret Anne’s elbow and pulled her around the side of the house where bushes hid them from view. She longed to shake the woman in front of her but settled on glowering at her instead.

“Margaret, we’ve been over this many times before. You can’t come like this during the day. What would Nigel do if he found out?”

“Annie. I’m your Annie, not plain old Margaret. Everyone calls me Margaret and I’ve become sick of it.” Margaret Anne stomped her foot and wiped her dripping nose.

“You’re a mess,” Rose said, not bothering to conceal her repulsion.

“I haven’t been sleeping or eating. Why won’t you answer my letters?”

Rose winced from the whining tone in Margaret Anne’s voice. She wasn’t in the mood to deal with her now.

“I’ve been busy—”

“Busy fucking Odell’s whore of a wife?” Margaret Anne snarled and her nostrils flared in near rage.

“Lily Odell is a guest in my home and will be treated with respect. And as any friend would do, I’m helping her during this rough time.” Rose kept her voice calm and controlled. “You shouldn’t listen to such vicious gossip. You could easily be on the end of such talk if your precious friends ever found out you were fucking a genuine whore.”

Rose went to leave but Margaret Anne grabbed hold of her wrists. Once she had enjoyed Margaret Anne’s touch. Now disgust filled her over being mauled in such a manner.

“Let me go,” she said through gritted teeth.

A tear trickled down Margaret Anne’s cheek and her lips trembled. “Please don’t walk away from me. I’m not thinking correctly and didn’t mean to insult you or your friend.”

Rose softly sighed and nodded. When she pulled her hands away, Margaret Anne released them and sniffed loudly.

“What do you want from me, Margaret Anne?” Rose asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

Margaret Anne scanned her face and then lifted up a hand to her cheek. Rose twisted her face away, causing more tears to fall down Margaret Anne’s cheeks. “I miss you dreadfully. Nigel has left town again on business and I’m all alone in my mausoleum of a house with only the servants to keep me company. I miss the afternoons we had together lying in the room at the Restoration or upstairs in your suite here at the Delights where you let me do whatever I wanted to you.”

Rose’s only reaction to Margaret Anne’s passionate plea was to blink her eyes. She rubbed a hand over her mouth, uncertain how to proceed further. If she told Margaret Anne their affair was over, she might become more overwrought than she was. She had to be very careful.

“I’ve treasured those times as well, but I can’t always be at your beck and call. I’m busy running a business and have a great deal of responsibility.”

“You’re trying to get rid of me.” Margaret Anne glowered and fisted her hands together, almost tearing her handkerchief in two.

“I agree we need to talk. But not like this with your emotions running high. Why don’t we meet at the Restoration on Monday at one o’clock? It will give us time to work things out.”

“Work things out?” Margaret Anne stepped closer, her skirt brushing against Rose’s thighs. “What is there to work out, other than to schedule our next rendezvous? It’s been torture not feeling your lips against mine or your pussy on my face as I drink down your sweet, creamy nectar.”

Rose wanted to slap her palm against her forehead. Margaret Anne’s florid words never had done anything for her libido even when she first became involved with her. Now they made her cringe. At least Lily didn’t have to resort to such things. A smile tickled her mouth as she thought back to the kiss she and Lily shared. She was caught unaware when Margaret Anne lifted her mouth against hers, clutching the back of her neck.

When Margaret Anne tried to slip her tongue into her mouth, she pulled way, wiping away Margaret Anne’s saliva off her lips.

“What’s wrong with you? Anyone could come upon us. You’re willing to throw it all away just to share kisses outside like this?” Rose spread her arms indicating the space around them, not that it mattered. No one from the street could see them.

“You’re right. I must remember to be more careful in public. Nigel does allow me certain liberties, as I do for him, but as long as I keep my…proclivities behind closed doors, I’m allowed to do what I want.” Margaret Anne’s voice dropped to a purr. “I’ll refrain for now. I look forward to discussing our current relationship on Monday.”

Rose didn’t smile as Margaret Anne beamed at her, showing her slightly crooked front teeth. She responded with a terse nod and went to walk back inside. “I’ll see you then and not before.”

Margaret Anne tilted her head to the side and swayed her hips. “I’ll count down the minutes until we see each other again.”

When Margaret Anne blew her a kiss and walked away whistling until she was out of sight, Rose turned to leave. She glanced up at the third story and stopped in her tracks. Lily stood by the window with a stricken look on her face.

“Double damn.” Rose rushed down the stairs and back into the kitchen. Her cook called out her name, but she waved her away as she ran up to the first level and over to the staircase to climb up to her suite of rooms. By the time she got there, she was out of breath. When Lily didn’t answer her knocking, she banged harder on the door.

“Go away!” Lily’s muffled voice came through the door.

Rose rested her forehead against the wood and groaned. “Lily, let me in. I can explain about what you think you saw.”

Lily didn’t answer back and Rose went to knock again when Sissy opened the door.

“Sorry Miss Rose, but Miss Lily is not feelin’ well. She’s restin’.”

Rose tried to look around Sissy’s shoulder, but she blocked her view.

“You know I can get in from the other side. I do have the key,” she said in a warning.

Sissy pursed her lips and then tapped her teeth with her tongue. “She’ll never forgive you if you do.”

Rose nodded in agreement, resigned she wouldn’t be getting her way. “You’re right. I’ll leave Lily alone. I do have some things to deal with that I’ve been neglecting.”

“You go ahead and do that, Miss Rose. I’ll make sure Miss Lily is well taken care of.”

“You’re dedication to your mistress is admirable,” Rose said and gave Sissy’s arm a soft pat.

“I’m all she’s got left,” Sissy replied simply.

“Not anymore. She’ll never be alone again,” Rose responded and before she could make a fool of herself, she walked into her bedroom where she lay down, pulling one of her pillows against her chest. She stared at the wall, ignoring her tears as they threatened to fall down her cheeks.

It had been such a long time since she felt such loneliness. And the only one she wanted to help her get over this feeling of wretchedness had locked herself away in the next room mere feet away, determined not to have anything to do with her.

* * * *

The driver opened the umbrella for Lily as she climbed out of the carriage. The downpour of rain had come on suddenly in the early morning and suited her mood perfectly. Combined with the sticky humidity and her recent bout of fatigue, she was in no mood to meet with the man hell bent on destroying her.

She thanked the driver as she walked up the front steps to one of the tallest buildings in all of Charleston and went inside. The heels of her boots tapped over the marble floor and she removed her bonnet, pushing back stray pieces of hair escaping her bun.

Lily had never styled her hair in a bun before, but she wanted to look more mature in Beau’s eyes. He’d always preferred her hair down and brushed her hair out before they retired for the evening. Rose also liked it when she wore her hair down.

Rose…

Things between her and Rose had become strained ever since she saw her and the hysterical looking woman kissing in the back of the house. She didn’t recognize the emotional woman, but she could tell Rose had been intimate with her. The way they touched one another freely reminded her of the times she and Rose acted in the same manner.

Her jealously got the better of her, and since that day, she barely left her room. Many times Rose would knock on her door and Sissy would answer, telling her she was indisposed. She never expected Rose to believe her and more than once she waited for Rose to come rushing into her bedroom through her suite and demand to know why she was acting so distant.

She needed the separation until she could deal with Beau and perhaps gain the courage to ask Rose the terms of their relationship. Was it to be just business between them or pleasure mixed in as well?

Today, she would put aside her confusing feelings for Rose. Her mind had to remain clear for what was in store for her. Resting her palm over her jittering stomach, she climbed the staircase toward the law offices of Reath, O’Neil, and Witt.

Walking down the hall, she passed a few men who tipped their hats in her direction. She reached the door with the law firm’s name on it and went inside a large room where men sat at desks. She searched for someone to show her which room she should go into, when an older, matronly woman with graying hair came forward with a pile of papers in her arms.

“Good afternoon, may I help you?” the woman asked in an agreeable manner.

Lily tugged off her gloves. “Good afternoon. I have an appointment with Mr. Parker Witt. Would you tell him Mrs. Lily Odell has arrived?”

“If you follow me, I can take you to him. I believe your husband… erm, Mr. Odell is with Mr. Witt.”

Lily smiled over the woman’s sympathetic tone and followed her as they walked past the desks and around the corner.

Before she went into the corner office, she took in a deep breath, counted to five and waltzed in as if she was attending a social gathering rather than divorce proceedings.

Two men stood by the windows. One at least twenty years older, wearing a gray, three piece suit, the other in a tan linen suit with a head of jet black hair to match his beard and mustache. Both men turned when she came in and her throat closed as they examined her.

Lily went to open her mouth, but the words stuck in her throat. Realizing she pulled her gloves taut, she eased up her hold.

“Lily, you’re looking well.” Parker came over to her and she gave him her cheek to kiss. She’d first met Parker when she and Beau had become engaged and he always went out of his way to make her feel welcome.

“How is Sophie? She must be busy with, what is it now? Your fifth grandchild?” she enquired about Parker’s soft spoken wife who also had a welcoming air around her.

“She’s doing well, thank you for asking. And yes, my older son and his wife just had their third, a boy they named Oliver.”

“How wonderful. Congratulations,” Lily said and pressed her other cheek against his.

“Be strong,” Parker whispered and moved away, giving her a perfect view of her wayward husband.

“Hello, Beau,” she greeted him and folded her hands to stop from rubbing her jittery stomach or twirling her hair.

“Hello, Lily,” he returned, a frown remaining on his face as he scanned her from head to toe.

Lily lightly snorted. If he thinks he can intimidate me with his superior air, he’ll find out soon enough I won’t cower. “Has the staff at the Marelton been taking good care of you? I did try and see you but for some odd reason, I was told my name had been left off an approved list of visitors. Now I know it must be a mistake. You would never be so callous to do such a thing.”

“It wasn’t a mistake,” Beau said and he pushed aside his coat to place his hand on his hip.

Hurt expanded in her chest. She went to give him a cutting remark back, but stopped when she looked Beau fully in the face. The usual daring twinkle in Beau’s eyes had disappeared and deep grooves surrounded the area, as well as shadows lurking under them. His face had become thinner and cloudy with anguish. The last time she had seen Beau so despondent was when they lost their baby. Even when they had their final fight and he walked out, he hadn’t looked as wretched as he did now.

She wished she could feel satisfaction over his pain, but instead compassion made her want to hold him in a loving embrace.

“You’re staring,” Beau said and crossed his arms, his chin lifting, daring her to argue with him.

“I’m staring because you look horrible,” she tossed back, softening her voice.

“And you look nervous, Lily. I can tell from the blush creeping up on your face.” Beau paused for a moment, his low, burly twang rushing over her. “Could it be you’re nervous I’ll leave you with nothing and thrown out on the street? But then again you don’t have to worry about not having a place to go. I’ve heard Rose has been taking very good care of you.”

Beau was right about one thing. She had a bad habit of blushing when she was nervous and not in control of a situation. For the moment, Beau had the upper hand. But she would remain strong and show his cruel words no longer had any impact on her.

Suddenly, all the tension and stiffness left her. Even her heartbeat slowed down and a numb like feeling spread up her chest and through her arms.

I no longer care what Beau thinks of me. Lily slapped her gloves against her palm. “Rose has been taking excellent care of me, so much in fact that after we finish here, I’ll be helping her run her business. She has shown and taught me so many wonderful things I never knew were possible.”

Beau’s jaw dropped. Parker coughed loudly into his hand, his own face turning a deep red. Lily made her way over to one of the empty seats in front of Parker’s desk and sat down, waiting for the proceedings to begin.

When Beau landed in his seat and slouched next to her, she sent him a proud smile and then returned her attention back on a still flustered Parker.

“Shall we begin, gentlemen? I have many other places to visit and cannot keep those people waiting.”

A snort left Beau and when Lily gave him a questioning stare, his eyes had a bit more life in them and his face wasn’t as pale as when she first had entered the room.

“Well played, my dear,” Beau said grudgingly and nodded at Parker to begin.

* * * *

Lily finished writing her name on the paper and slid it back to Parker. Not only had her marriage truly come to an end but Beau had given her enough money to live comfortably for the rest of her life.

“Well, that’s it then,” she said and stood.

Parker scanned the papers he held. “This is the first step. There are some other things that need to be taken care of, but essentially you’re now a free woman.”

“It feels strange,” Lily admitted and went over to look out the window. The rain had stopped and the sun had come out.

“I trust I can leave you two alone while I give the contracts to my assistant?” Parker asked, his voice wary.

“Go take care of what you have to do, Parker. Lily and I are civilized adults. You won’t come back to find us tearing each other’s throats out,” Beau said, humor lacing his voice.

Lily swallowed a giggle. At one time she would have strangled Beau. But now those days were over.

She barely acknowledged the door opening, only turning back around when Beau came over to her.

“Poor Parker doesn’t trust us to be alone. He left the door open,” she pointed out.

“Parker knows how passionate we can get when we argue. He’s seen us in our glory more than enough times.”

She remembered all too well the last time they had such an argument. The restaurant where they once had dinner with Parker and his wife would never be the same. The aftermath had ended with them returning home and Beau ravishing her all night. She had more than welcomed it and did a little ravishing on her end. But that had been one of the last times they had been intimate where it wasn’t just their bodies wanting release, but their hearts engaged as well.

“We could write a book together on how a married couple shouldn’t act. We’d sell millions.”

Beau pulled back his head and laughed loudly. Lily joined him and without realizing it placed her hand on his arm. She went to remove it, when Beau dropped his hand over hers, keeping her imprisoned.

She didn’t fight his hold and cocked her head to the side in a question.

“Lily.” Beau licked his lips. “You could have fought me on this. Why didn’t you?”

“I’m sick of fighting all the time. After everything you said and accused me of, I’ve decided it’s better if I let you go. I don’t think my poor heart can take any more damage,” she whispered.

“You heart is far from damaged.” Beau finally let go of her hand and stared at her unblinking. She waited for him to say something, but he remained silent.

“Why are you staring at me that way? So when you leave you can remember what you’ve thrown away?” she asked in a snide tone.

“I’ll have no problem remembering you for the rest of my life. By the way, how is Ashford doing? I hear he’s been out of town.” A smirk lined Beau’s mouth. “You’d think the man would be here, since you two are such close friends and you were more than willing to lend him a shoulder to cry on after Mary’s death.”

Lily itched to slap the spiteful look off of Beau’s face. “For what must be the thousandth time, I never had intimate relations with Wyatt Ashford, before or during our marriage. Wyatt is only a friend. You’re the only man I ever loved!”

Beau rolled his eyes and shifted his legs. “How soon we forget not only did I walk in on you ‘consoling’ Wyatt after Mary’s funeral, but witnessed with my own eyes you and Wyatt holding each other in public! Do you know how many people told me they saw you and Wyatt in a passionate embrace and how you kissed him?”

“You’re jealousy got the better of you and you saw what you wanted to see. And who are these people? They’re bitter gossips who have nothing else to do with their time than to slander my name. I’ve told you before your associates’ wives couldn’t stand me. You only cared about appearances, refusing to listen to my complaints.”

Lily gasped when Beau took hold of her arm and wrenched her up close to his face. His eye glittered with rage and his jaw creaked as he mashed his teeth together. “Then explain to me why you and Ashford were hugging and kissing in the park near our house.”

“We were comforting one another—”

“Comforting my ass. Mary’s death gave you an excuse to finally get your claws into him. You forget how much I noticed those doe eyed stares you gave Ashford when we first met. You always flirted with him to make Mary jealous.”

“That’s not true! I flirted with all the boys back then. It was a game Mary and I played to see—”

“To see what?” Beau’s spittle sprayed Lily in the face. His hold grew even more rigid. “Which one of you could seduce him first?”

“Seduce him? I’ve never wanted Wyatt. I’ve told you a million times, you asinine fool. I only wanted you. Every time I allowed you in my body should have been all the proof you needed. You promised to love and care for me forever. But you broke that promise just like she did!”

Beau’s forehead wrinkled in confusion. “What do you mean by, ‘she’?”

Wiping her eyes, Lily sniffed and glanced past Beau’s shoulder. What was the use in keeping her secret from him any longer? She was sick of his mistrust and jealousy.

“The reason I never wanted Wyatt is because my heart belonged to someone else, years before you came into my life.”

“If not Wyatt, then whom?” Beau gave her a shake, his body as stiff as the walls surrounding them.

“Mary.” Lily’s voice broke. “Mary was one the one I was in love with, not Wyatt. She and I weren’t just close friends but lovers. She broke off our…affair when she became engaged to Wyatt. She wanted a husband and children and a simple life with no drama, which she would have if she stayed with me.” Lily fisted her hand into Beau’s jacket. “Now do you see why I was so close with the Ashford’s? I wanted to be near Mary. If she couldn’t be with me the way I wanted her to, I would remain her friend and live with the pain of her rejection. But then you came along and swept me off my—”

“Stop right there. I’ve heard enough.” Beau backed away, staring at her in shock. Sweat trickled down the side of his face and his mouth opened and closed. Lily wiped under her eyes as more tears fell from them.

“Beau.” She held out her hand in a plea.

“I had no idea.” Beau shook his head. “When you made love to me, lying naked in my arms, you wanted to be with Mary?”

“No! Never with you. You consumed my very soul. I felt alive with you after all the horrors I went through during the war, with Mama and Papa dying and losing my childhood home. I fell in love with you. I once was in love with Mary, but then that changed when I met you.”

“You loved a woman exactly like you would love a man?” Beau’s lip curled and his eyes grew dark.

“Y-yes. Mary and I were intimate as girls. We really only kissed and touched. I can count the number of times on my hand we were naked—”

Beau released a curse and pulled at his hair. He muttered something under his breath and when he looked back at her, a vein popped out from the side of his neck. “I can’t believe this. All the times you said you loved me and we made love, you pretended I was someone else.”

“Take that back, Beau Odell.” Lily pointed her finger in the air and her chest heaved with indignation. “My love for Mary was completely different from what I felt for you. You saved me from—”

“Shut your lying mouth.” Beau gritted his teeth and he lifted his fist as he paced in front of her. Lily’s hand shook as she laid her palm over her speeding heart.

“Why are you so upset? You threw me aside—”

“Why am I upset?” Beau bellowed and she jumped. “How did you think I would react to finding out my wife is a Sapphist?”

“What’s a Sapp-Sapphist?” she asked.

“A woman who fucks other women,” Beau spat, glowering at her in disgust.

Lily flinched. “I-I take offense to your crude words, sir. Apologize now.”

“Apologize? That’s rich coming from you.” Beau scanned her face coldly. “It’s no wonder you hated taking my cock into your mouth, but were more than willing to spread your legs for my tongue all over your cunny like a two-bit whore. If I’d known you’d like to get your face mucked up with a women’s honey, I would have paid one of Rose’s girls to join us. Oh wee, what a sight that would be to see you lap a woman’s puss right up while I took you from behind.”

As Beau laughed and squeezed the bridge of his nose, Lily went right up to him and slapped him hard against his cheek. He grabbed hold of her wrist as she lifted her other hand to pummel him.

“You cold hearted bastard. I hate you!” she yelled and struggled. Another cry left her as he squeezed her wrist harder.

“Beau, what in the hell are you doing?” Parker grabbed hold of Beau and pulled him away from Lily.

“You can only push me so far, Lily,” Beau hurled over Parker’s shoulder as he blocked Beau from coming back at her.

Lily held her pained wrist as Parker spoke low in Beau’s ear. Beau nodded, but his eyes stayed on her. She shivered from the undisguised loathing in them.

It’s truly over between us. Lily dropped her arms to the side and went to the desk to pick up her things. She grabbed her gloves and put them inside her reticule. When she turned back around, Beau sat on the couch with his head bowed and his forearms resting on his knees.

“Lily, are you well? Do I need to call for someone?” Parker asked kindly as he came over to her.

“Don’t concern yourself with little old me.” She patted Parker’s cheek lightly. Her lips trembled as she tried to smile. She failed and instead, tears filled her eyes.

“Lily—”

“Please Parker, it’s better if I go now.”

“Be well, my dear,” Parker whispered and squeezed Lily’s shoulder.

Lily finally looked back at Beau. He hadn’t moved from his spot and was still silent.

“You’re a fool, Beau Odell. You’ll regret this day.” She curled her lip, sickened by the man she once worshiped. “You sir, can rot in hell for all I care.”

“You’ll join me there soon enough to pay for all your sins.” He lifted his head and gave her a bleak look.

“Perhaps so, but until then, I’m going to live life on my own terms. I’ve survived much worse. You haven’t broken me. Remember that when you go to sleep at night all alone.” Lily lifted her chin and with a wave at Parker, walked out of the office.

She had just opened the front door, when a loud crash came from within. Not bothering to stop and investigate, even when Beau’s angry voice bellowed, she closed the door behind her and went down the stairs.

And when she hailed a carriage and climbed inside, only then did she cry her eyes out.

Chapter Eight

It had been a good three months since Rose had been back to the Restoration Hotel. During the first year she and Margaret Anne were together, they used the same room for most of their trysts. The staff had turned a blind eye and never questioned why two women would need a room for a limited time and not an overnight stay. But then again, Margaret Anne’s husband owned a percentage of the hotel and she had slipped enough money to upper management to keep their silence.

As things progressed between them, Rose grew wearisome of their clandestine meetings and preferred Margaret Anne to stay in her bedroom at the Delights in case any emergencies occurred. But now with Lily living with her, she couldn’t invite Margaret Anne back there.

Thoughts of Lily made her stomach dip. She hated how tense things stood between them. And it made things even worse since Lily refused to hear her explanation. She only hoped Lily’s meeting with Beau had gone well and that he’d given her the funds she needed, not only to help her move on with her life, but for her to accomplish her dream.

Now she stood outside the room ready to knock. She inhaled through her nose and laid her palm against the smooth wood. This relationship with Margaret Anne had run its course and if she had any hope of a future with Lily, she needed to cut off all ties with her soon-to-be former lover.

Things between her and Margaret Anne would undeniably end badly, but she knew what she was doing the moment she cornered Margaret Anne at some public event and explained to her in graphic detail what she planned to do to her. She’d come to blame the amount of champagne she drank and the lustful stares Margaret Anne had given her that night. They left without saying their goodbyes and grabbed a carriage together, where they both fell upon one another in lust as they drove to the Restoration and up to this very room where she gave Margaret Anne her first orgasm with her mouth on her cunt. She would never do such a thing with another woman again, unless it was with Lily.

As soon as she finished here, she needed to see Lily, to make her listen. In the few days that had passed, she could barely sleep through the night knowing Lily was upset with her. She of all people had learned trusting and loving another person unconditionally ended in disillusionment and regret. But when it came to Lily, none of that mattered.

“Damn you Lily Odell for sneaking into my heart and damn myself for allowing it.” Rose shook her head and rapped her fist against her forehead, as if that would relieve the pressure building there.

First deal with Margaret Anne and then Lily. Rose gave the door a knock with her knuckles. The door opened and Margaret Anne stood there with a happy grin and holding a glass of clear liquid.

Margaret Anne stroked her hand over her chest, her thumb dipping in her low cut cleavage. Rose could see a slip of a nipple peeking out from the short, almost transparent chemise she wore.

“Did you just wake up from a nap?” she asked as Margaret Anne stepped to the side to let her in.

“Why would I take a nap when I was expecting your arrival, sweetheart?”

Rose winced from the endearment given in a slurred tone. Margaret Anne gulped down her drink and swayed on her high heeled slippers as she went over to the table near the corner where bottles of alcohol had been laid out.

“You’re dressed for bed. What was I to think?” Rose replied in a casual manner and went over to the fireplace.

“How soon we forget I always dressed in easy to remove clothes, such as I’m wearing now.” Margaret Anne brought over two glasses and held out one for Rose to take. “Whiskey neat, the way you like.”

Rose’s nose twitched from the fumes pouring out of Margaret Anne’s mouth. She took the glass but didn’t drink. Margaret Anne lifted the glass to her lips and smiled drowsily against the rim.

“You’re drunk,” Rose said in a flat tone and shook her head.

“I’ve been celebratin’!” Margaret Anne hiccupped and raised her glass. “To us and our future together.”

Rose placed her glass on the mantel and crossed her arms. “We have no future together. I came to break things off with you for good.”

“You still can’t be upset at me for the way I acted in your garden.” Margaret Anne lifted up one of Rose’s curls, rubbing the tuft between her fingers.

“You’ve become too possessive. We discussed from the beginning how our relationship meant no long term promises. I gave you a year of my life. That should be good enough.”

Margaret Anne dropped her hand away until it landed on Rose’s shoulder. She wet her lips as she played with the edge of Rose’s bodice, inching her way down until Rose took hold of her hand.

“Stop it, Margaret,” she ordered and shoved Margaret Anne away as she crossed the room toward the door. Before she could get there, arms came around her and Margaret’s Anne heavy breath brushed over the back of her neck.

“Call me Anne like you did the last time we were in bed together.”

Rose clenched her teeth. “We must go our separate ways.”

“How can you be so cruel to me? I’ve…fallen in love with you. You can’t leave me like this. I’ll die without you,” Margaret whispered, rubbing her mouth across Rose’s nape.

Rose rolled her eyes and tapped her foot. Fucking Margaret Anne Bourdieu had been the biggest mistake of her life.

“You need to stop this. I’ve moved on—”

Margaret Anne released a yell and Rose stumbled as Margaret Anne pushed her away. By the time she had spun around, Margaret Anne had picked up her glass and thrown it against the wall. The sounds of breaking glass reverberated and the wall became stained from the liquid.

“I’m the one to decide when it’s over between us! I won’t lose you to that spoiled pathetic bitch who all of Charleston can’t stand.”

Rose touched her brow. How had she never noticed Margaret Anne’s uncontrollable mood swings until now? “You think by threatening me and throwing insults around about Lily Odell I’ll want to stay with you? You’re delusional.”

“I’ll ruin you. One word to my husband—”

“And what? You’ll tell your husband how you’ve been fucking another woman who made you come more times than he has during your ten year marriage?” Rose laughed. “That should go over well. Unlike you, I have nothing to lose. You’re grasping at thin air, sweetheart. We’re finished. Get that through your pretty head and the next time you even try to contact me, I’ll pay a little visit to your husband at his bank,” Rose snarled and made her way over to the door.

Margaret Anne grabbed hold of her by the arm and as Rose tried to push her away, Margaret Anne wrapped her arms around her neck and smashed her mouth against her firm one. She bit down hard on Rose’s bottom lip and Rose seized her by the back of her hair.

“Enough!” Rose shouted and licked away the blood on her cut mouth. Margaret Anne laughed in glee and rubbed against her.

“You’re aroused. I can feel it. Punish me, I deserve it.” Margaret Anne went to kiss Rose again, but Rose flung her away.

With a swipe of her hand over her mouth, Rose stared down at her blood staining her fingers. When she glanced back up, Margaret Anne had pulled down her bodice and was tweaking her nipples while her other hand was in between her legs. “I want you so badly.”

“You need help,” Rose said with no emotion and backed away. She had just reached behind her for the door knob when Margaret Anne rushed her. Before she could open the door, Margaret Anne grabbed her by her hair and tugged.

“Let me go, you crazy bitch!” Rose struggled as Margaret Anne dug her nails into her neck and dragged her over to the bed.

“Not until we have our bed play,” Margaret Anne sneered and kicked her leg in between Rose’s, making her fall.

Rose went down on her knees and Margaret Anne lunged toward her. Rose broke her fall with her elbow and cried out when Margaret Anne squeezed her breasts.

“Stop this!” she shouted in alarm by Margaret Anne’s strength. Her skirt was hastily lifted and her bodice ripped as Margaret Anne went to kiss her. Rose twisted her head as Margaret Anne pressed her leg over her thighs to stop her struggling.

“You’ll be begging me to stop soon enough.” Margaret Anne bit down on the side of Rose’s neck and slid her hand up against the inside of her leg.

When Margaret Anne prodded a finger against Rose’s pussy, Rose kicked out and swiped her nails across Margaret Anne’s cheek. A scream of pain came from Margaret Anne and as she cursed, Rose pulled back her fist and pummeled the side of Margaret Anne’s head. Margaret Anne fell away to the side, clutching her face and sobbing. Rose crawled away, standing slowly on shaking legs as she ran over to the door.

Margaret Anne cried out her name. Rose ran down the hall, clutching her bodice and holding back her hair. Doors opened and people came out to investigate the commotion. She continued running until she flew down the step, hitting the main level and finally out into the street.

Rose ran as if the demons of hell were after her until she hid into a side alley and caught her breath. Tremors overtook her body as she fell to the dirty ground and cried into her palms.

Only when the shakes had subsided did Rose rise to her feet. She pulled her hair into some semblance of order and held her bodice together as she walked away. Some people who passed her gave her stares, but she ignored them. She had to make it back to the Delights in one piece without having a breakdown. Then she would ask for a bath and soak her aches and the terror away. No one would ever find out about this recent scrape.

Never again would she place herself in such a precarious situation.

Chapter Nine

“I don’t like this. I should go up and see how she’s doing,” Jo said to Clara the cook as she finished stirring the soup she planned on serving for dinner tonight.

“Madam said she didn’t want to be disturbed,” the stocky woman stated as she began peeling potatoes.

“Rose has never been like this before. She always lets me see her, even when she’s taking a bath. I don’t understand why she didn’t want me to help her this time,” Jo grumbled, stung by the rejection.

“Madam can do things herself like running a bath. She doesn’t need you to scrub her back all the time.”

Jo stuck out her tongue. “I guess breaking up with a current lover can make anyone moody, even Rose. Do you think it didn’t go well? No one will tell me a thing.”

“Stop your complaining.” Clara pointed the knife at her. “Everyone else is busy getting ready for tonight. Shouldn’t you help your sister look her very best?”

“Alene has stopped taking clients. She’s packing up her room. Tomorrow she wants to go pick out furniture and decorations for her new house Mr. Addison has bought her.”

“I’ll miss Alene. She’s a lovely girl.” Cook grinned. “You must be pleased to be leaving this place and only have to take care of Alene from now on.”

Jo nodded. “It’s all happening so fast. It will be nice to live in a house where there’s not so many people underfoot or coming face to face with strange men sneaking back home to their unknowing wives.”

“You’ll only have to put up with one man this time,” Cook stated and went back over to the stove.

Jo stood and jiggled her leg. Rubbing her knee, she winced. Back to work. “I need to check the second floor rooms before tonight. Maybe then I can visit Rose and see if she’s well enough to watch over things tonight.”

Cook gave her a non-committal response as she walked out of the kitchen and slowly climbed up the stairs to the first level. The sounds of feminine laughter echoed around her as she walked down the hall. Her chest tightened over the idea of leaving. It had been the only place she ever called home, not counting her childhood where her grandmother had taken care of her and Alene before she had died. The years after had been dark ones until they met Rose and she took them in. Now she was off to the unknown, leaving everyone she trusted behind. But she had to be strong for Alene, who had a man willing to give her so much, where the only thing he asked for in return was the sole use of her body.

Jo glanced at her reflection in the mirror on the wall and pushed her braid over her shoulder. Would she ever feel a man’s naked body against her own in passion? A grimace filled her face. Only in her dreams a man wouldn’t be disgusted by her ruined leg.

The sounds of a piano met her ears. She changed direction and went toward the back to one of the salons. Clinton sat at the piano. The arms of his shirt were rolled up under his elbows and his jacket discarded over a chair. He ran his fingers across the keys, his head down in concentration.

Jo listened to the music, some haunting melody that made her eyes burn. She longed to sit down beside him and return the kiss he’d given her in surprise when he found her on the stairs. She even allowed him to pull her into a corner and continue kissing her until she grew faint, going as far as allowing him under her skirts and touching her in between her legs. After she broke apart in his arms, and he silenced her cries with his talented mouth so they wouldn’t be caught, he asked her to come to his room. She refused and ran to her own room where she lay on her bed and rocked. The hardest thing she’d ever done was walk away from him. And still she ached deep inside, wetness building in her pussy for Clinton to taste. Oh how she wanted his mouth on her, for his tongue to lick her woman’s flesh and give her at least one orgasm before she died.

“You’re not afraid of being alone with me? Aren’t you scared I might ravish you on top of the piano?” Clinton frowned as he hit a key.

Jo closed the door and walked further into the room. When she reached Clinton, he turned around on the bench and glanced up at her, sorrow floating in his eyes.

“Oh, Clinton. What am I going to do with you?” She spread her fingers through his curls. A sigh left him and he hid his face into her torso.

She held him close as she petted his hair. She was a fool for loving him this way. How could he be attracted to a damaged woman like her?

“I don’t think you’re damaged.”

Jo covered her mouth and stepped back. “I can’t believe I said that out loud.”

Clinton took hold of her hands and tugged. She went willingly on his lap and when his face lifted toward hers, she gave him her mouth.

She sat there rubbing her lips against his own and when his hand crept up to hold her breast, she broke away.

Clinton stared at her as he circled his palm around her turgid flesh. She squirmed on his lap, his dick poking under her.

“You can’t want me,” she said sadly and ran her fingers up his smooth cheek.

“Why? Because I’m a dirty whore?” Clinton stated, irritation lining his words, and moved his hand away to press in between her legs.

Jo’s head fell back and she moaned as Clinton kissed her throat.

“Let me in,” he whispered and bit down where her pulse raced.

She was a glutton for punishment. She dug her fingers into his arms and spread her legs further apart when his hand went under her skirt and squeezed her knee.

“How can you touch me like this? My leg—”

“Fuck your leg. It doesn’t make you who you are,” Clinton growled and laved her skin.

Jo rocked against Clinton’s hand as he made his way through the slit in her drawers and found her pussy. His fingernail scraped one of her feminine folds and she hid her face into his throat.

“Would I be the first?” he asked against the top of her head as his finger pressed down on her clit.

She shook her head and cupped his chin, panting. His hand went still as her damp heat coated his fingers. She bit her lip from asking him to enter her body and bring her relief.

“I want to be your first lover.” Clinton’s mouth roamed over the side of her face. “Your only lover.”

Jo moved her head up and squeezed her thighs together to keep Clinton’s hand captive. His forehead knitted and she traced the lines there. “I want you so much I ache, but I-I…we shouldn’t. I-I’m not like your other women who would give their left ear for one night with you. I can’t. You’ll end up breaking my heart.”

“Sweet Josephine,” Clinton lifted her chin. “I won’t break your heart. You mean the world to me.”

“That’s all fine and dandy, but the two of us wouldn’t work. I’m a lowly maid in a whore house while you’re job is to allow your body to be used for a toss of a coin. I’m already mad with jealousy as it is. If we became lovers, I couldn’t share you with anyone else. That’s the God’s honest truth.”

Jo tried to rise, but Clinton wrapped his arm around her waist. He kissed her greedily, using seductive force get her to submit. It was useless to refuse him. She opened her mouth to receive him just as one of his fingers slipped inside her.

“Oh!” He eyes rolled in back of her head and squirmed as her inner muscles latched around his finger.

“You’re body tells me another story.” Clinton smiled against her mouth and pumped his finger, curling it upward to hit a spot that had her seeing bright spots.

Jo’s fingers found his hair again as she licked at his lips. “What if you give me one night then? A memory to stay with me after I leave?”

“You’re not leaving,” Clinton said gruffly and his thumb tapped over her clit.

“W-when Alene leaves next week.” Jo nipped his lips as she ground against his hand, trying to find the right words. “Ooh…yes, press there…harder…I-I’m going with her.”

“I want to put my mouth on your—what?” Clinton stopped his kissing and took his hand out from between her legs as he moved her off his lap and down on the bench.

“Come here and finish what you started,” Jo ordered, shaking with frustration as Clinton walked away, raking his fingers through his hair.

“I need to think. I can’t while I’m making love to you,” Clinton said and paced the length of the room.

His glowering didn’t stop the rush of pleasure filling her. Making love? She smiled brightly and jumped when Clinton suddenly knelt down in front of her and took her hands in his.

“Why would you leave me? I thought we’re friends?”

Jo swallowed uncomfortably. The lump in her throat had grown and tears came to her eyes. “It’s time for me to move on. There’s nothing left for me here other than a lifetime of sewing and cleaning musty, stained sheets.”

“And you think by going off with your sister and her fancy gentleman and playing maid for her, you’ll have more than you do now? You’re a fool, Josephine.”

“You have no right to talk to me that way!” She pushed Clinton away and hobbled over to the door. She didn’t get far as a set of arms came around her. She didn’t struggle, but stayed in Clinton’s embrace as he held her tight and hid his face in her hair.

“Don’t leave upset. I can’t have you hating me.”

Jo turned around and cupped Clinton’s face. His eyes were damp and his mouth trembled. She had never seen him so emotional. He was always in control and quick with a joke or a wink. But at this moment, all of his defenses had broken down and she was finally seeing the truth behind the man he never allowed anyone else to see.

“I can’t hate you. What I feel for you is far from hate,” she said strongly and wiped her wet cheek.

Clinton pulled on her braid and it slowly unraveled until her hair was spread over her shoulders and chest. She rested her forehead against his throat and rubbed her thumbs over the side of his face where his hair covered his ears.

“What do you feel for me, my beautiful Jo?” Clinton asked softly as his fingers combed through her strands of hair.

“Why do you keep calling me beautiful? You know I’m not,” Jo whispered and sniffed as more tears fell from her eyes.

“You’re wrong. I think you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known.” Clinton tipped up her chin and kissed her cheek, his tongue licking away her tears.

She held onto his arms and sobbed as his mouth drifted over her face. She had no strength left to deny him. She needed him, even if it would be for only one night.

“I-I want you so much.” She inhaled raggedly and opened her mouth as Clinton kissed her. His tongue swiped over her own and she fell faint.

“Come with me to my—”

The sudden knock on the door jerked her out of his arms. She wiped her eyes, stepping over to the door and opened it. Lily stood there looking back and forth between the two.

“Yes, Mrs. Odell?” Jo asked, continuing to dry her eyes with her hand.

Lily remained in the doorway, and when Clinton’s hands dropped on her shoulders and pulled her back against him, she went willingly.

“I’m sorry to interrupt, but I’m worried about Rose. She won’t answer her door when I knock on it and she’s locked the door from my room to hers.”

“Madam is resting. Sometimes she takes a nap before the guests arrive for the evening,” Jo offered.

Lily’s frown deepened. “There has to be a way for me to see Rose before tonight.” She grabbed hold of Jo’s hands. “Someone must have another key to unlock the rooms other than Rose. Please tell me you have an extra set.”

Jo glanced down at Lily’s hands covering hers. Clinton gave her hips a tender squeeze. She glanced back at him and he nodded.

“I’m probably going to regret this, but if anyone deserves to enter Rose’s room without permission, it should be you.” She lifted the keys out of her pocket and took one off the ring.

Lily took the one Jo held up and gave her a confused look. “I don’t catch your meaning.”

“You’re a smart woman. I don’t think I have to spell it out for you.” Jo rested her hands over her restless stomach as Clinton rubbed his chin across the back of her head. She went to swat him, when he grabbed hold of her hand and kissed her knuckles.

Lily gave her a shrewd smile. “I think I’ve taken up enough of yours and Mr. Lear’s time. Thank you for this.” She waved the key and walked down the hall.

Clinton nuzzled Jo’s hair. “I have the feeling Rose will be indisposed tonight just like you and I will be.”

Jo twisted around and opened her mouth to argue when Clinton pressed the pad of his fingers over her lips. Her tongue grazed his skin and he groaned.

“Come spend the night in my room where I can show you how much I want you.”

Jo’s eyes closed from the pleading in Clinton’s voice and when he grabbed her hand and settled it over the bulge in his pants, she squeezed. A shudder left his body and she smiled when his cock grew harder.

When she opened her eyes, his face was less than an inch from hers and his lips where shining as his tongue came out and licked them. Her mouth grew dry and she longed to have his tongue inside her mouth, to dampen the fire blazing throughout her body.

Why the hell not? Why not take what he’s offering and enjoy what hundreds of women and men both had?

“Fine, I accept your offer, Mr. Lear. But we better hurry—”

She bit off a scream as Clinton lifted her into his arms.

“Put me down!”

He chuckled and taking deep strides, turned down the hallway. Jo hid her face in his arm as he called out greetings to those they passed. Whistles and catcalls followed them and when they reached the back of the house and down a flight of stairs, only then did he put her back on the ground.

“You better not hold anything back,” she said boldly, her face burning. I’m finally going to have sex with Clinton!

Clinton gave her a deep kiss that had her seeing stars. When they finally broke apart, she swayed, her head a muddled mess.

“Oh don’t you worry, Miss Jonet. I’ll give you a swiving you’ll never forget. You’ll be screaming for more late into the night.”

And when they finally reached Clinton’s door, she placed her mouth close to his ear and with a sultry whisper told him in great detail what she wanted him to do to her.

His only response was to kiss her again and he didn’t stop until they entered his room where he knelt in between her legs and gave her another different type of kiss altogether.

Jo ended up screaming until her throat went raw.

* * * *

Lily didn’t bother to knock and went into Rose’s room, expecting a confrontation. Instead, Rose, wearing only a robe and a head of damp curls as if she had just taken a bath, sat in a high back chair with papers on her lap and holding a sifter with what appeared to be brandy.

“Rose, why have you locked—oh dear God, what has happened to you?”

She rushed over to Rose and knelt down in front of her. Rose put her glass down on the table, not bothering to hide her puffy lip and the black and blue on her neck.

“I had an altercation with my lover, rather my ex-lover. She didn’t appreciate how I wanted to break off things. We had an…argument that became very heated. I left her crying on the floor of the hotel room.” Rose smiled, then winced, touching her lip.

Lily lifted her fist to her mouth. Scratch marks covered Rose’s neck and chest. She shook her head in shock over Rose’s broken nails and the red bruising circling her wrists.

“You say, your lover, a woman did this to you?”

Rose rested her hands on the arms of her chair. “Yes. I prefer women in my bed over men. Are you disgusted?”

“No!” Lily came close to shouting. She rose and hugged her waist. “Do I know her?”

Rose picked up her glass and took a sip. “You may. Her name is Margaret Anne Bourdieu. She’s married to a very rich and powerful man. As long as she keeps her peccadilloes quiet, her husband allows her to do what she wants and with whomever she wants.”

“Her last name sounds familiar but I’ve never met her or her husband.” Lily gave Rose’s hands a gentle squeeze. “You should go to the police and report her for assault. I can come—”

Rose held up her hand. “No. I won’t. The police and I aren’t on the best of terms. My relationship with Margaret Anne was always meant to be kept a secret. I think she learned her lesson this time. She won’t bother me again.”

Lily held back from wincing over the hard tone in Rose’s voice.

“Then let me call one of the maids for ice to put on your lip—”

Rose took hold of Lily’s arm in a firm grip. “Stop. I’m fine.” She then loosened her hold. “I put some balm on it and took a warm bath. Don’t worry yourself.”

Don’t worry? Lily wanted to scream. How could Rose sit there so calmly after being attacked in such a way? The doubtful look in Rose’s eyes, told her a different story altogether. “For now I’ll let this go, but we will talk more about this soon.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Rose sighed. “Right now I can’t. Please respect my wishes.”

“Rose.” Lily licked her lips. “I grew worried when you wouldn’t answer your door.”

“Just like you did to me a few days ago?” Rose lifted her brow and gave her a pointed look.

Lily wiped her palms down the side of her dress. “I acted like an unruly child. Can you forgive me?”

“What’s there to forgive?” Rose shrugged and winced.

“Do you need to see a doctor?” Lily brushed her fingers across Rose’s cheek.

Rose flinched and moved her head away. Lily remained there, uncertain how to proceed. When Rose lifted one of the papers from her lap, Lily sat down in the chair across from her.

“I only ask because I don’t want to see you in pain,” Lily said as she spread her palms across her lap.

“No doctor can cure what I have.” Rose sniffed and smiled as her eyes scanned the paper. “My daughter tells me how she thinks she has fallen in love. The boy she admires is the baker’s son. They sit together in church every Sunday,” she chuckled. “My daughter attends church!”

“You find this odd?” Lily asked.

Rose’s eyes glittered with unshed tears. “I haven’t been in a church in years. The last time I went was when I found out I was pregnant. I asked the priest if God would forgive me because I lay with a man outside of marriage for money. He said…I’d burn in hell for what I did.”

“Why that low down, rotten...” Lily trailed off as Rose covered her face and broke down.

Rose’s loud sobs tore at Lily’s heart and she got up and sat on the edge of the chair and wrapped an arm around her. Rose pressed her face into her stomach and Lily whispered soft words and rubbed her back in a soothing circle.

“You can’t tell me after all these years you still believe what some priest said to you? He was probably jealous of all the callers you received and your beauty he could never enjoy for himself.” Lily pushed one of Rose’s curls behind her ear and rocked her slowly.

“I know it shouldn’t have mattered what a dried up old man thought.” Rose sat up and wiped her eyes. “It was a good fifteen years ago and I think I’ve done well for myself regardless of the way I made my money.”

“You’re a survivor.” Lily squeezed the back of her neck.

“We both are,” Rose said and linked her fingers with Lily’s. “Enough about my misfortunes and the trying day I had. Tell me how things went with you and Beau.”

“I didn’t end up strangling him. That has to count for something.”

“From that sour look on your face, I’d say things didn’t go well.” Rose slid over and patted the seat beside her. “Join me. There’s room enough for both of us.”

Lily sat down beside Rose, their hips flush against one another.

Rose rubbed her thumb over the top of Lily’s knuckles. “Go on.” She nudged her.

“Beau gave me a very generous settlement. We remained polite the entire time until after we signed the paperwork. Our lawyer, or rather his lawyer, thinks he can speed up the process and we can divorce before the end of the month. Beau and I were left alone in the office and I really did try to stay calm. But then Beau started with the rumors about me and Wyatt. I told him I was never unfaithful to him, least of all with Wyatt. The stubborn man didn’t believe me. I lost my temper.” Lily pressed her fingers to her mouth.

“How did you lose your temper?” Rose asked, hooking an arm around Lily’s waist.

“I finally told him Mary and I were lovers before I met him. Mary rejected me and ended up marrying Wyatt. I didn’t want to lose her completely, so I let her be with Wyatt. Beau didn’t like hearing that and said a few choice words. I ended up slapping him and told him to burn in hell.”

Lily closed her eyes as Rose brushed over her hair. It felt comforting and she rested her cheek on Rose’s shoulder.

“I’d have given anything to see Beau Odell brought down a peg or two. His reaction must have been priceless,” Rose said in delight.

“He acted like a jackass. But now it’s over and all I have to do is wait for the check and deposit it in the bank and move on from there with our plans for our club.”

“I do like the sound of that,” Rose said breathlessly and gave Lily a tight hug.

“Beau is going to hit the roof when he hears about our partnership,” Lily pointed out.

Rose shrugged. “Let him. There’s nothing he can do. You’re free now and he can’t control you.”

Lily lifted her head. “I can’t believe I’m divorced. I always thought Beau and I would be married forever until one of us died.”

“You’re still young. If you wanted, you could have any man you’d like as your next husband.”

“I don’t think that will happen. Marriage to Beau was exciting but nerve wracking. If we weren’t at each other’s throats, we made love like possums in heat.”

A deep laugh left Rose and she grabbed her glass and drank.

Lily glanced at her out of the corner of her eye. “I don’t think I could stand getting pregnant again.”

“Why is that, Lily?” Rose brushed her fingers across Lily’s cheek.

“I was so happy when I found out I was pregnant,” Lily laid her hands on her stomach. “I’d never seen Beau so happy. We started buying furniture for the baby and even talked about having more children. For six months I carried that little soul inside of me and then for no reason, my darling baby was taken from me.” She grabbed hold of Rose’s hand and held it against her cheek. “I went into labor too soon and my baby was stillborn.”

“Sometimes it happens. It’s not your fault,” Rose murmured into her ear.

“Beau blamed me. That morning I was gardening under the hot sun and didn’t even think to take a rest. Soon I grew faint and then the next thing I remembered, I was lying on the grass and had horrible cramping in my stomach. Blood covered my dress and in between my legs. The servants brought me inside and up to my room. Sissy went for the doctor. By the time the doctor arrived, the baby was coming and I couldn’t stop it. The pain! I never felt anything like it. I think I passed out again. The next time I woke up, Beau was yelling at the doctor outside my room and Sissy stood there in tears.”

“Oh, dearest.” Rose turned Lily’s head and gave her a kiss on the mouth.

Lily clutched Rose’s arms. “My baby, my little girl was dead. She never took a breath. Beau never came in to see me or hold me to say it would be all right. He went out instead of staying with me. Finally the next morning he came in smelling of smoke and booze. He dropped his head into my lap and cried. I cried also and he said if I hadn’t been outside in the heat, our baby would still be alive. I told him to get out. At first he didn’t, until I started screaming. Only when Sissy came back in and told him to leave, he did. I remained in bed for almost a week, refusing to see him. Finally he apologized and we made up. He wanted to make another baby but I told him we needed time. And then...”

“And then what?” Rose asked in a hushed whisper.

“Mary went into labor. She was eight months along. She had miscarried three times before and the doctor had warned her another pregnancy could kill her because her body wasn’t strong enough.” Lily shook her head and stared down at her lap. “She died after almost two days of labor. Her son never took a breath like my little girl. My Mary was gone from me forever.”

“Oh Lily, I’m so sorry.” Rose pulled her in tight and rocked Lily as she cried.

“I’ll never see Mary again. Everything has been taken away from me. I have nothing left.”

“That’s not true.” Rose shook her. “You have me now and I’m not going anywhere.”

“But why do you care so much? I’m cursed. Everyone I have ever loved has died or left me. You will also.” Lily hunched over as the pain ran up and down her body. Her headed pounded and her mouth was dry. She went to move away when Rose cupped her face.

“Listen to me, Lily Dunne. You have so much to live for. Now is not the time to give up or feel sorry for yourself. Didn’t you tell me I’m a survivor? I have the battle wounds to show for it. I may have never lost a child like you did or have a husband throw me away, but I know what it feels like to be at the bottom, where you think all hope is lost. You’ve survived the harshest of circumstances and here you are still alive and breathing. You’ll move on and heal, maybe not today or even tomorrow, but eventually you will and I’ll be by your side to help you get through it.”

“Rose, I…” Lily stroked the side of Rose’s face and took in a deep breath. “I’m so lonely. I don’t want to feel like this anymore. Will you spend the night with me?”

Rose inhaled. “Spend the night how?”

“Making love to me. Show me all the ways you can make a person forget their problems and only care about the number of climaxes they can reach.” Lily cupped the back of Rose’s head and their noses touched. “I want to lie next to each other naked in my bed and forget the outside world and all those people who have hurt us. And I want to do it now.”

“I thought you’d never ask,” Rose said, tangling her hands into Lily’s hair and kissing her deeply.

Lily moaned and held Rose tighter as their mouths moved together, pressing and biting, their tongues lapping over one another in want. Rose pulled back and winced, prodding her lip.

Gulping in air, Lily gently rubbed her thumbs over the corners of Rose’s mouth “Was I too rough? I’ll be more careful.”

“I’ll gladly take the pain to have a thousand more of your kisses,” Rose responded and pressed her lips to Lily’s again.

Lily lifted up and knelt over Rose as she cupped her face. She sighed, breaking the kiss when Rose cupped her breasts.

“We should take this into the bedroom,” Lily said and climbed off of Rose.

Rose grabbed hold of her hips. She pulled Lily back and grabbed both globes of her ass. Lily brushed her trembling fingers across Rose’s face in near wonderment.

“Let’s use mine. I have a giant bed. Perfect for rolling around on.” Rose stood and gave her another passionate kiss.

Lily spread her palms over Rose’s chest and pulled apart her robe. Lily admired Rose’s nipples as they stiffened under her hands.

“Can I suck you here?” Lily asked and gently circled Rose’s areola, watching the raspberry colored tip harden.

“You can do anything you like to me,” Rose said against Lily’s ear and her robe fell at her feet.

Lily pulled back her hands and licked her lips. Rose left her arms at her side as Lily scrutinized her from head to toe.

“You’re beautiful,” her voice caught in her throat and she brushed her fingers down the front of Rose’s chest.

Rose grabbed hold of her hand. “Come with me.”

Lily went with Rose in silence, her harsh pants filling her ears. When they entered the bedroom, the setting sun cast shadows across the floor and bed. Lily kissed Rose and then went over to close the door.

“May I undress you?” Rose asked as she came up from behind and pulled the pins from Lily’s hair. It fell down her back and Rose pulled her tresses off to one side and kissed the side of her throat. Her hands came around and cupped in between Lily’s legs, her thumb dipping inside her cleft, causing Lily to cry out.

“I-I can’t breathe in my dress. Help me take it off.” Lily moaned and dropped her head forward as Rose unbuttoned the back of her dress.

Rose’s mouth followed her hands, her tongue licking softly across Lily’s naked back until she pulled the dress down and it dropped at her feet. Next went her petticoats and her pantaloons. Lily undid her corset as Rose untied it, only stopping to nibble on Lily’s shoulder. As Lily went to pull off her chemise, Rose stopped her.

“Why don’t you lie down on the bed?” Rose slapped her lightly on the ass.

Lily turned and gave Rose a questioning stare. “Don’t you want me naked first?”

Rose wrapped her hand around Lily’s nape and moved her mouth over her open, panting one. Lily’s arms came around her and she spread her legs apart, the rising itch inside her spiraling out of control.

Rose broke off the kiss and sniffed. Her eyes sparkled as she stared as Lily’s nipples pierced the fabric of her chemise. “I can smell your desire. You need relief and I’m the woman who can give that to you.”

Lily went to cover herself in embarrassment but Rose stopped her. She pulled her over to her bed, her breasts jiggling from her purposeful stride. Lily licked her lips, greedy for Rose’s plentiful flesh that would barely fit in her mouth.

“Lie down.” Rose released Lily and waved at the bed.

Lily sat on the edge and moved back as Rose pressed her hand in between her chest. She fell back with her legs dangling over the edge and dug her fingers into the coverlet.

“You’re a fine sight, Miss Lily. I can’t wait to eat you up,” Rose purred and placed her knee on the bed next to Lily’s hip.

“Eat me up?” Lily asked, her pussy clenching as she thought of all the ways Rose would devour her.

Rose smiled and dipped her head. She placed her lips over Lily’s, motionless, as if she waited for permission. Lily gave it to her and opened her mouth, her tongue licking over the seam of Rose’s lips.

Rose didn’t do anything else but kiss her. Lily lifted up on her elbows for more leverage and went to wrap her leg around Rose’s hip. Rose pushed her leg down and squeezed the inside of her leg. She fell back on the bed, tugging and sucking Rose’s lips with ferocious intent. Her juices coated her inner thighs and her breasts ached unbearably.

“Touch me,” Lily begged and threw off her chemise without waiting for permission. Rose nodded in approval and moved her face down, showering kisses across her sensitive flesh. Her back arched when Rose drew on her nipple and her fingers tugged on her pussy hairs. Lily’s face grew as hot as the summer sun and her body released more of her feminine musk.

Rose’s eyes met hers and she bit down, making Lily flinch. Her eyes closed from Rose’s tongue licking over her chest and down her stomach until she met the cup of her womanhood. Her fingers combed through her hairs and her chin landed on her upper thigh.

“Open your eyes, Lily, as I love you.”

Lily did what Rose ordered and bit down on her lip hard enough to draw blood. Her chest felt close to bursting and she trembled not only in passion but with something deeper, more elemental that called to her to claim Rose as her own.

“Is this truly love or just an insane physical attraction that needs to be doused?”

“We’ll have to find out what it is together.” Rose pressed her palm over Lily’s belly and dipped her head in between her legs.

Lily released a long moan from the depths of her soul the moment Rose’s tongue met her engorged, swollen folds. She bucked up, her foot almost hitting Rose in the head, but Rose caught it and latched onto her ankle. She glanced up, her mouth shining, and winked. Lily opened her mouth and a sharp cry left her this time. Rose’s mouth sucked down and spread apart her cunt lips. Her fingers jostled back and forth over her enflamed flesh.

Sweat beaded Lily’s brow and her fingers grew numb as she tugged on the bedding. Rose pulled her legs further apart, giving her even more access. Lily turned her head from side to side. She had never experienced such pleasure, even when Beau did the same exact thing with his mouth.

Rose’s tongue flicked and circled around her nether lips. Her finger rubbed over her spongy muscle that made her gush more of her woman’s musk. She banged her heel against the bed and begged for mercy, her throat growing hoarse. Rose didn’t cease, even when Lily cried out for her to stop.

Rose turned her slightly on her side and her mouth moved farther down until she lapped near her ass. Lily sobbed against the mattress, twitching from exertion. She suddenly stiffened as Rose’s tongue went back into her pussy and jabbed around her distended tissues.

“No more!” Lily yelled and jerked a final time as she saw bright lights as her head exploded.

Sounds like rushing water filled her ears and she rolled onto her back. Blinking, she brought the room into focus and a hazy Rose leaned over her, her face close to hers.

“Do you like what I’m doing to you?” Rose asked and nipped her mouth.

Lily nodded, wiping away her damp forehead. Rose pressed her tongue over hers and Lily sucked and swallowed the tangy dampness coating Rose’s mouth. She didn’t mind the taste knowing it came from her body. She finished the kiss and smiled up at Rose in sated contentment.

“I want to do that to you. I never have before.”

“You will. We have all night.” Rose shifted over Lily and began kissing her again. Lily wrapped her arms around her and they rolled until Rose lay on her back. Lily straddled her by the waist and Rose stared up at her in laughter.

“Now I have you.” Lily grabbed hold of Rose by her wrists and pulled them over her head. She rubbed her tender breasts over Rose’s aroused ones.

“Do to me what you like. But remember, I always get my revenge,” Rose growled and lifted her head, latching her mouth over Lily’s.

Lily chuckled and swiveled her hips, making Rose gasp.

“Where did you learn that?” Rose asked in a low whisper and moaned when Lily did it again.

“I have a few tricks up my sleeve. I’m not a total innocent as you may think me to be.” Lily squeezed Rose’s breast and wrapped her mouth around Rose’s nipple. She took the nub in her teeth and pulled, rotating her core against Rose’s damp one.

“Harder,” Rose commanded.

Lily sucked deep and slid her hand down to find the source of Rose’s heat. She switched to Rose’s other breast while she circled Rose’s slick folds, inserting a finger in deep and thrusting.

Rose locked her legs around Lily’s waist and pulled her hair as Lily continued to kiss and suck her. Whimpers and soft cries left her mouth, changing to pleas for mercy.

Lily didn’t stop, not even when Rose’s nails embedded into her shoulders. Only when her hands became coated with Rose’s release, did she halt her torture and move her mouth back up to Rose’s where they kissed until their bodies both shuddered violently as they came together.

Lily never had it better. Rose told her the same.

Chapter Ten

“You’re…a…fast…learner,” Rose panted, close enough to come. She held back as she gave her lesson to Lily who’d learned quickly enough the skill of cunnilingus. Rose had given many of her girls’ lessons in oral satisfaction, but she’d never taught them the practice of bringing her to orgasm with their mouths.

“Yessss…” Rose rocked her hips as Lily’s tongue went into her cunt and encircled her folds. Her fingers joined in, moving back and forth slowly.

“Hm.” Lily shifted her shoulders until Rose’s legs hung over her back. Rose clenched Lily’s head and pulled on her hair.

“What?” Lily moved back and wiped her mouth. A trail of Rose’s cum spread across Lily’s arm.

“Suck my clit,” Rose ordered and pushed Lily’s head back down. She lifted her legs and grabbed hold of her ankles as Lily’s mouth latched over her mound. With her thumb, Lily rubbed her clit along with her tongue flicking it.

Rose bucked up against Lily’s mouth and dropped her aching legs as she lifted up on her hands and came fast and hard. Lily kept her mouth around her, swallowing her release. Only when she sighed and tapped Lily on the top of head, did she sit back.

“Is my teacher pleased?” Lily asked, an edge of impertinence in her voice, and climbed up next to her. She lay across Rose’s torso and puckered her lips for a kiss.

Rose laughed and used the sheet to wipe away Lily’s mouth and chin. When she felt Lily was clean enough, she kissed her slowly, allowing her satisfied body to relax.

Lily brushed over Rose’s distended nipple and smiled against her mouth. “Can we use our mouths on each other at the same time?”

“Have I created a monster?” Rose tweaked Lily’s nose. “Yes, we most certainly can. But first, let’s take rest. I wouldn’t want you to fall asleep on me as soon as you come all over my face.”

“Mrs. Ware, where are your manners?” Lily’s face grew red and Rose gave her a loud smack on her lips.

“You can’t be shy after all we’ve done together over the last two hours.” Rose pushed a pillow behind her back as Lily rested her cheek on her arm. She continued to play with her nipple. Lily’s touch made the stirring in between her legs grow, but for the moment she was too comfortable to do anything about it.

“Some things still shock me, as hard as it is to believe.” Lily kissed Rose’s chin and settled back down.

Rose smiled and closed her eyes, the sounds of muffled conversation, music, and laughter drifted up from down below. She was so used to the nighttime sounds that the times she wasn’t playing host eased her to sleep.

Lily’s toes tickled her ankle and she opened her eyes, sifting her fingers through Lily’s tousled hair. Shortly she would make Lily come as she sucked on her breasts and played in her ass. She couldn’t wait to see Lily’s reaction to this new type of naughty sex play.

“Shouldn’t you be downstairs making sure nothing is amiss?” Lily asked in a drowsy voice.

“I don’t always play hostess every night. Tagg will keep my guests in line. If there’s a problem, he’ll come see me.” Rose tugged on Lily’s hair. “Unless you’d like to go downstairs and seek out Dominique and Daniel again.”

Lily shifted off of Rose and on her stomach, placing her chin on her folded arms. “I’m perfectly fine where I am. I don’t need anyone else but you to act out my fantasies with.”

“Good,” Rose said, her jealously subsiding. Turning on her side, she tucked her hands under her chin. Her knee touched Lily’s bent one. She never felt the need to have some part of her body touching her lovers after they had sex. She always ended up distancing herself. But with Lily, she wanted to feel some part of her body against hers, to confirm what they had done together was real.

“I’m curious, you go by a married name, but I don’t think you ever said you’ve been married. Do most whorehouse madams pretend to be widows?” Lily asked.

Rose circled a dark freckle on Lily’s shoulder. “I’m not sure what other whorehouse madams do, but I choose to go by a different last name than my original one. I have an alias to keep my sister and daughter protected. And so far it’s worked.”

“Where did you come up with the name Ware?” Lily asked and kicked her leg up in the air.

Rose grabbed hold of Lily’s big toe and wiggled it. “From my first protector.”

“Really? How did he feel about that?”

“I wouldn’t know. He died before I took the name.”

“Oh.” Lily shifted to her side and curved her arm around Rose’s hips. Rose hid her face in Lily’s hair, sniffing deeply of the jasmine scented rinse Lily used when bathing.

“I’ve only had one protector. When I left New Orleans at the ripe old age of eighteen, I thought with my beauty and sparkling personality I’d become the star of the South. My dream was always to be a stage actress. New Orleans was too stifling and I didn’t want to end up running my mother’s bordering house for the rest of my life. When my mother passed away after a bout of pneumonia, I took half the savings my mother left to me in her will and said farewell to Caroline, who took over the boarding house.” Rose’s lips lifted as she remembered that last day they hugged as she caught a carriage out of the city. “I read an advertisement in the paper for girls to be extras in a play house in Macon, Georgia. I tried out and was lucky enough to be given a job.”

“You must have been excited to act on the stage,” Lily said.

“The shine wore off soon after. The women I competed with for roles were petty and jealous. They would do whatever they could to become a star, even sleep with the director and owners of the playhouse. At the time I was too innocent and would never do such a thing to get ahead. I was close to losing my job. If not for Dylan Ware, I would have been destitute and returned back to my sister a failure.”

“He was your first lover?” Lily asked in a careful voice and dipped her chin.

“Don’t be shy to ask,” Rose said and lifted Lily’s chin up and gave her a kiss. She broke the kiss but kept her face close so she could stare into Lily’s inquisitive eyes. Lily met her stare and nodded for her to go on.

“He was my first male lover. Some of the actresses at the playhouse preferred women in their beds. Since I was always attracted to women more than men, they introduced me to some wonderful bedroom activities. One night myself and two of the girls had each other for hours after sharing one too many bottles of absinthe. It was heavenly.”

“Sounds…nice.” Lily’s forehead wrinkled and her lips thinned. Rose took that as a sign to move on.

“One night after a performance, the cast and I went out to a local pub. I noticed this older, distinguished gentleman playing billiards. He had a skill with a cue stick and after a shot or two of whiskey, I gained the courage to go up to him and introduce myself. He asked me to join him in a game. He let me win and when he asked if I would come back to his hotel for a nightcap, I accepted. I ended up staying the night. Dylan was a gentle and equally passionate lover. He made my first time with a man a wonderful experience. He was in town for two weeks on business and every moment we had free, we were together, mainly in bed.”

Lily caressed the side of Rose’s face. “He was married?”

“Yes. He travelled away on business a great deal. After twenty years of marriage, he and his wife never had children and she spent most of her time with her parents. The arrangement suited them both. Then the day before he left to return home, he asked me to go with him. I said yes, left behind my dreams of becoming a famous actress and he set me up in a house. Dylan had many eccentric and interesting friends from artists to playwrights and even courtesans.”

“He sounds scandalous.” Lily moved on her back and folded her hands on her stomach.

“Oh he was. I adored Dylan very much and thought he would divorce his wife and we would get married. I was so young and idealistic back then. Dylan would never leave his wife. He loved her in his own way, just as he loved me, but in a different way.” Rose paused and cleared her throat. “I met Beau through Dylan.”

Lily’s eyes grew wide. “Really? I had no idea. When I asked Beau how he knew you, he would only say from colleagues or friends.”

“Funny, but I can’t really remember the first time I met Beau or how he and Dylan were acquainted. Beau was so entertaining and he made me laugh. He used to joke with Dylan and say he would steal me away from him.” Rose exhaled and rubbed her chest where it suddenly stung. “And then one day while Dylan and I went out for a stroll, he crumpled to the ground and wouldn’t get back up. The doctor said he had a stroke and died instantaneously. Soon after I found out I was pregnant.”

“Oh, Rose, I’m so sorry.” Lily pulled her over and Rose hugged her close, brushing aside her tears pooling in her eyes.

“I wasn’t invited to the funeral, but Dylan left me the house and a nice sum of money. Surprisingly his wife didn’t fight the will. Beau was a great support then. He helped me through it all, Dylan’s death, my pregnancy and was there when I gave birth to Georgie.” Rose licked her lips, knowing what she would tell Lily was going to be hard. “After I gave birth, I went back to my sister. Beau followed me and one thing led to another and we became lovers. I assumed we would marry, but he only wanted me as his mistress.”

Lily brushed the back of her hand over Rose’s cheeks. “You fell in love with Beau?”

“I did have feelings for him, but love? No. Marriage to Beau would have given me and Georgie stability. I ended things with him because I wanted more than he was willing to give and I was afraid of getting pregnant again. I didn’t want to bring another child into the world without the bonds of matrimony. Beau left to make his own way in the world and soon after I grew antsy.” Rose shook her head and laughed. “I shared an ongoing correspondence with one of the courtesans I’d been friendly with when Dylan was alive. She invited me to stay with her in Charleston where she and a few other women set up a house to entertain their gentlemen friends. I thought I’d be gone for a few weeks at the most and left Georgie in the care of my sister.” Rose closed her eyes then, shame filling her chest. “I-I left my baby girl behind because I was selfish and wanted to find joy again like I had with Dylan.”

“I’m surprised your sister allowed you to do such a thing. If my sister left her child with me and went off like you did, I’d have killed her,” Lily said in a forthright manner, although she still caressed Rose’s face in a caring way.

“My sister is a saint, much like our mother was,” Rose said and rested her head on Lily’s shoulder. “I needed time away and in the company of friends. After staying with them, I didn’t want to leave. I wanted to live my life on my own terms and not have to rely on anyone else. And that’s when I decided to go into business for myself and with my savings and some business advice from my very knowledgeable and business savvy friends, I found an excellent piece of property here in Charleston and Rose’s Delights was born. In less than five years my brothel exploded and my girls became the most sought out women in the entire state of South Carolina,” Rose said proudly.

“You did it all yourself? Didn’t Beau…” Lily ventured off and stared up at the ceiling.

Rose grabbed hold of her chin and looked right in Lily’s face. “You thought Beau helped me start up my business? Perhaps invested in it?”

Lily nodded. “You can’t fault me for thinking so.”

“I don’t.” Rose’s mouth met Lily’s and they shared a kiss. Rose nestled comfortably against her pillow, pulling Lily on top of her and running her fingers up and down her back. “During that time Beau had his investments elsewhere and wanted to stay as clean as possible so he could become more of a respected business man.”

Lily snorted loudly and her shoulders shook with silent laughter. “Beau will try by any means necessary to become a valued part of society, but it’s imbedded in his soul to be the complete opposite.” Lily lifted her head and flung her hair aside in annoyance. “Enough about Beau Odell. I want to hear stories about your days as a new madam. Did you entertain many men and women?”

“Why, Lily you continue to surprise me.” Rose rolled over until Lily was lying under her. Lily batted her eyelashes and her hands roamed over Rose’s ass.

“I want to hear all the dirty details.” Lily’s voice hitched as Rose circled her nipples with her thumbs and slowly rubbed her knee against Lily’s mound.

“You want to hear how many men I sucked off and how many women I went down on? Or perhaps how I used to tie up one of my biggest female clients and only use my mouth on her to make her come eight times in one night?”

Lily’s eyes went wide. “Eight?” she squeaked. “You’re joshing me.”

Rose gave the sheet a tug and it came loose. She then tied it around Lily’s wrists. “You don’t believe I can make a woman climax that many times? I think you need to be punished for questioning my skill.”

“Will you make me c-come eight times?” Lily’s cheek grew red as she tripped over her words.

Rose lifted Lily’s wrists high and tethered them around the iron headboard. Lily arched her back, her nipples pointing up, as if they begged for Rose to suck them. She flicked Lily’s nipples with the tip of her tongue, causing moans to leave Lily’s mouth.

“And so ends our heart to heart for the moment.” Rose swiped a finger against the seam of Lily’s pussy. She then lifted her fingers smeared with Lily’s juices and wiped her fingers over her lips. Lily gasped and Rose quickly smothered the sound with a wet kiss, sharing Lily’s feminine cream with her. When Lily licked the inside of her mouth thoroughly, she broke away breathless.

“Make me come only with your mouth until I pass out from the pleasure,” Lily growled in a low voice and wrapped her legs around Rose’s hips.

“You won’t be able to walk tomorrow morning.” Rose took Lily’s face in her hands. “I lied. I didn’t just use my mouth but some sexual instruments to aid me.”

“And what are those?” Lily asked, her chest heaving as she breathed deeply.

“I’ll introduce you to my toys later, but first I think we need substance.” Rose climbed off of Lily and went over to pull on the rope that would ring in the kitchen. She sauntered back over to the bed and sat on the edge. Lily rubbed her legs across the mattress, soft whimpers leaving her mouth.

“I didn’t tie the sheet too tight. You can get out of it if you want to,” Rose explained.

Lily gave Rose a wanton smile and spread her legs apart where her plump, pink clit was on display. “I don’t want to. It’s all part of the game isn’t it?”

What I want from you isn’t a game. Rose blinked away that thought and crawled over Lily. She placed her cheek on Lily’s stomach and swirled her finger over Lily’s slit, where more of her juices developed. Rose inhaled and her stomach rumbled. “Now lie back and enjoy yourself while I sate my hunger.”

Rose dipped her head in between Lily’s legs and lapped her up, not stopping even as Lily screamed for mercy. Only when she was satisfied with the number of times Lily came from her maundering tongue and mouth, did she stop.

When their dinner arrived, she fed Lily and allowed her to have even more orgasms as she licked away the chocolate pudding she dabbed across Lily’s breasts and across her thighs and in her cunt.

For the first time since she’d been pleasuring women, Lily passed out from exhaustion. Rose gave herself a silent pat on the back and regardless of being sticky from their shared dinner and other body fluids, she untied Lily and pulled her into an embrace. Rose fell fast asleep with Lily’s taste imbedded in her mouth and her heart swelling with love.

Chapter Eleven

A yawn left Rose’s mouth as she exited the real estate office where she just signed the lease on her new building. She shook her head and hugged her leather satchel to her chest, excited for her and Lily. They were one step closer now to accomplishing their goal. She couldn’t wait to celebrate with Lily later.

She took a moment to catch her breath after another yawn. Perhaps a cup of coffee is in order to help me stay awake?

For two weeks now she and Lily had spent far too much time closed up in either one of their bedrooms as they not only made passionate love for hours on end but talked late into the night when she wasn’t taking care of matters with the brothel. Those fourteen days were some of the happiest of her life. Not only were her employees working overtime to meet the needs of their clients, and bringing in more money, but now with things running so smoothly, she could take more time away to be with Lily.

Not even when she was with Dylan, had she felt this sense of peace and happiness. Lily had become important to her as Georgie, who she’d soon see after the gaming club was up and running.

With a small bounce in her step, she began walking instead of hailing a carriage. It was a lovely afternoon with little humidity. Perhaps the walk would revive her. By then Rose would have returned home from the cemetery and she’d cajole her into taking a nap—

“Mrs. Ware, you’re looking particularly lovely this morning. May I interest you in a ride?”

Rose stopped and closed her eyes before she turned. Beau hung his head out the open window of his brougham as it came to a halt next to her.

“Why, Mr. Odell, it’s been forever and a day since we last saw one another.” She batted her eyelashes and pressed her palm near her heart. “To what do I owe the honor?”

Beau opened the door and jumped out of the carriage as he took off his hat. “Let me take you to wherever you need to go and we can talk. I do miss our conversations we’ve had.”

“It’s better if I walk. There’s too much road traffic.” Rose pointed out as she motioned up ahead to the street filled with congestion from the other carriages, carts, and horses.

“Are you in a rush?” Beau asked, his eyes becoming shielded.

“Someone is waiting for me and I don’t think she’d be happy if she found out I took a drive with you.”

Beau slapped his hat against his hip and his cheek twitched. “You mean Lily.”

Rose took a step closer to Beau and lowered her voice. “Who else would I mean?”

Beau scratched his chin and braced his arm against the door. “I’ve heard some interesting rumors about you and my wife.”

“You mean your ex-wife,” Rose replied and crossed her arms.

“I’m still trying to get used to being divorced. It’s a first for me,” Beau said and squeezed the back of his neck.

Upon close inspection, Rose noticed the dark circles under Beau’s eyes and his face appeared thinner. His jacket was also a size too big as if he lost weight. She tapped her mouth. “You look like shit,” she said without censor.

“Then take pity on me.” Beau gave her the same fixed look she gave him. “And speaking of shit, you should take a look in the mirror. Too many late nights, Madam Ware?”

Yes, with your wife you so callously threw away. Rose bit down on the inside of her cheek and lifted her chin. “You know me, always the night owl. I’ve been busy tutoring a young woman in the art of passion. She’s a fast learner. Such a shame her ex-husband couldn’t please her like I can.” She wiped away a piece of lint on her bodice, noting how Beau went rigid. “She’s quite the tiger in bed and tastes sweet as ambrosia.” Rose winked and twirled a piece of her hair.

“Touche,” Beau murmured, his eyes dropping to slits.

Rose relented from any more verbal attacks and gently rubbed Beau’s arm. “We’ve always been honest with one another and I’d hope we can continue the same way. I’ll take you up on your offer for a ride. That is, if you don’t end up throttling me as soon as I sit down.”

Beau pressed his hand over Rose’s and nodded. “I’m in all things a gentleman. You have my word no harm will come to you while you’re in my company.”

“Very well, Sir.” Rose allowed Beau to help her into the carriage. She sat next to the window and he followed her in, sitting across from her.

With his walking stick, he hit the ceiling and the carriage moved.

Rose placed her satchel next to her and settled back in her seat. The rocking motion of the carriage brought on another yawn.

“Forgive me. I haven’t been sleeping very much.”

“You’re enjoying taunting me,” Beau said as he slouched in the corner, watching her covertly.

Rose shrugged. “Not at all. I’m just stating facts.”

“And if I asked about Lily, you would tell me the truth?”

“What point would there be in me lying to you? I make Lily happy.” Rose lifted her eyebrows, daring Beau to argue with her.

“It’s true then? She prefers women in the bedroom?”

“It appears so,” Rose said softly.

“Damn it. How could I not have known? A husband should know these things about his wife.” Beau hit his knee and frowned.

“Not always. Women are very skilled at hiding things.”

“You mean being deceitful,” Beau whispered harshly.

“Don’t act like you’re the wounded victim in all of this. Lily was faithful from the moment she said, ‘I do’ to you. You made a big mistake and now you’re paying for it.”

“I’m paying a great deal for my mistake, as you call it. Lily’s retribution has many zeros after it.” Beau gave her a condescending stare that made her sit up straighter.

“Oh yes, all will be well knowing Lily can fix her broken heart with the money you’ve thrown her way to ease your guilty conscious.”

“Lily lied to me from the moment I met her.”

Rose lifted her hands in the air. “Because she didn’t tell you how she’s attracted to women and the one woman she loved rejected her for a man of all things? Spare me your histrionics. Lily fell in love with you and wanted to have a future with only you. So what if she still yearned for what she couldn’t have with Mary Ashford? You can’t tell me you don’t still long for those things you lost or never had in the first place.”

Beau rested his forearms on his knees and rubbed his thumbs back and forth over his mouth. “Perhaps I do.”

Rose rolled her eyes and smacked Beau’s hand away when he traced a finger over her knee. “Don’t make me slap you.”

Beau sighed and sat back. “I was wrong about Lily and Wyatt. There. Are you happy now?”

“It doesn’t matter to me. The person you should talk to no longer cares. Lily has moved on and—”

“You really think she’ll stay with you?” Beau asked, his voice dripping with a sly tone.

Rose laughed dryly. “Because I was once a whore who had a child out of wedlock and enjoys sex without the bonds of matrimony? Lily knows it all and doesn’t care. I’ve helped her break those chains hypocrites like you and those self-righteous asses you associate with tightened around her. She once tried to live life on her own terms with Mary and it ended in disappointment. If you think about it, you reaped the rewards by Mary rejecting Lily. But now because of your stubborn nature and annoying pride, you lost the most important thing in your life.” She grinned. “Your loss is my gain.”

“Bravo, Madam.” Beau clapped.

The fight left Rose and she sat back against the squabs of the carriage. “I don’t want to be your enemy, Beau. You either accept how things are between me and Lily and move on or you don’t. But if it’s a fight you want, then a fight you’ll get.”

“I’m tired of the anger and hurt. I...wish I could go back in time and change things.”

“It’s too late for that now,” She said and held out her hand.

Beau placed his hand in hers and he tugged. She sat down next to him and rested her cheek against his chest.

“I could seduce you as a form of revenge, but you’re like a sister to me,” Beau said over her head.

Rose patted Beau’s chest and gave him a kiss on his cheek as she sat up. “You can’t seduce someone whose body won’t respond to you.”

“Ouch.” Beau brushed his palm down the back of her head. “The question now remains, where do we go from here?”

“Hell if I know.” Rose gave Beau a perceptive look. “Perhaps we can discuss this more over a cup of coffee. I know of a quant café a few blocks away from the Delights where we can chat some more.”

“And you’ll tell me more about your new building purchase? Expanding your business?” Beau asked.

Rose didn’t bother to ask how Beau knew about her plans. He always found a way.

“If you’re paying, I may tell you what I have planned.”

“Are you going to tell Lily?” Beau asked as he hit the roof and the carriage came to a halt.

“Yes. I have nothing to hide. We’ve always been honest with one another.” Rose laid her hand on Beau’s arm. “Perhaps afterward you can come back with me and if Lily is up to having company, you both can talk.”

“I would like that,” Beau said and called up to the driver to give him the directions to their new destination.

* * * *

The gravestone was cool against her fingertips as Lily left a yellow daffodil on top. She bowed her head and said a silent prayer. This time her eyes remained dry and her hands didn’t tremble as she brought them up to her mouth and blew a kiss.

“I hope wherever you are, you’re happy and at peace,” she whispered and with one last touch on the gravestone turned to leave.

Wyatt Ashford stood a few feet away holding a colorful bouquet of petunias.

“Wyatt,” Lily said his name fondly and he pulled off his hat as he gave her a short bow.

“You’re looking well, Lily.” Wyatt walked over to her side. “Can you please give me a moment with Mary?”

Lily poked the petal of one of his flowers. “Of course. Mary would have loved these.”

“They were her favorite,” Wyatt replied, giving her a small smile.

“I’ll wait over here for you.” She motioned to the big birch tree near the edge of the grass.

Wyatt knelt down on one knee and positioned the flowers at the base of the grave. His mouth moved as he dipped his head, his finger tracing Mary’s name and dates of her birth and death. He then turned his attention to the smaller gravestone next to Mary’s where his son was buried. Lily almost went to him then, to offer some comfort, but he rose, and with one last pat to both gravestones, he came over to her.

“When did you get back?” she asked.

“Yesterday morning. I booked a room at one of the hotels in town. I can’t stay in my house. Too many bad memories.”

Lily could understand. She couldn’t see Wyatt sleeping in the same bed or living under the roof where his wife and child had died.

“It’s so good to see you, Lily.” Wyatt held his hand out to her and she took it. He pulled her in close and gave her a hug.

“Why don’t we take a stroll and talk?” she suggested softly.

“Let’s.” Wyatt directed her toward the path.

They both walked in companionable silence. Lily stared up at Wyatt, viewing his appearance. He was the total opposite from Beau in looks and breeding. He had no facial hair and had a lighter skin tone due to his days of sitting in an office rather than working outside. His blonde hair was smoothed back with some sort of pomade that always smelled like licorice. Nothing in Wyatt’s manner showed that he had suffered from a recent tragedy, but then again even during the harshest of circumstances he always appeared composed.

“I walked past your house and was surprised to see it dark and the lawn unkempt. Have you and Beau decided to move?” Wyatt asked.

Lily kicked a pebble away with the toe of her boot. “Beau and I have separated and we’re divorcing.”

Wyatt jerked to a stop. Concern filled his eyes and he took both of her hands in his, squeezing them gently. “Last night I went out to dinner with a business associate and he told me you left Beau and now are residing with...” Wyatt cleared his throat, letting his statement go unfinished.

“I’m living with Madam Ware at Rose’s Delights,” she replied softly. “She took me in when I had no other place to go and has been a wonderful friend to me.”

Wyatt swiped his hand over the back of his head and his mouth fell into a frown. “You should have contacted me. I would have rushed back to help you. I hate to think—”

“Hate to think what? My reputation is already in tatters, so what does it matter if I’m living in a whorehouse? Actually it’s been quite liberating.” She gave him an impudent look and moved away to stroll again.

Wyatt caught up to her and grasped her elbow. “What do you mean by liberating?”

“Beau leaving me is the best thing that has ever happened. Right from the beginning, he and I were more like oil and water. We didn’t have the same relationship you and Mary had. Our personalities clashed far too often. Beau never really trusted me. He believed you and I…” Lily waved her hand around. “That doesn’t matter anymore. What does matter is I’ve found someone who doesn’t care what our neighbors may think. This entire situation has been a blessing in disguise.”

Confusion filled Wyatt’s face as lines appeared on his forehead and his mouth dipped down even further. “How can Beau think you and I would…the only woman I loved was Mary. I can go talk to him and fix this.”

Lily grabbed hold of Wyatt by the arm as he started to storm off. “Wyatt! Please don’t. It’s all said and done. Even if Beau believed you and wanted to take me back, I wouldn’t return to him. I have a new outlook on life and Beau isn’t part of it.”

“Please don’t tell me you’ve become a whore—”

“Oh, Lord no.” Lily laid a palm over her throat. “That’s one profession I could never do.”

Wyatt wiped his forehead and gave her an uneasy smile. Not since Mary’s death had she seen Wyatt so off center.

“I’m surprised you want to stay in Charleston.”

Lily shrugged. “Charleston has been my home for far too long. I could go somewhere else and begin anew with the settlement Beau has given me, but I’ve decided to stay and see what happens.” And now with Rose in my life I don’t have to run away in shame.

Lily left the last statement unsaid. She didn’t want to spring even more surprising news on Wyatt since he looked unnerved with what she had admitted. A vision of Wyatt passing out as she told him how close she and Rose really were caused a few giggles to spill from her mouth.

Wyatt took no notice as he glanced around. His forehead knitted again and he scraped the bottom of his shoe over the dirt.

“There are far too many unfortunate memories for me here,” Wyatt said and his eyes charted a squirrel digging in the grass a few feet away from them. “I’ve decided I can’t stay in Charleston. That’s why I left so soon after Mary’s…death. I’m going to sell my house and move out west to San Francisco where I’ve been offered an opportunity I’d be foolish to pass up.”

“Oh, really?” Lily asked, not necessarily surprised by Wyatt’s decision, but where he planned on going. “San Francisco is quite a distance away. Why not return home to North Carolina and rebuild there?”

“Mary would haunt me there,” Wyatt said softly. “Her ghost wouldn’t follow me to California.”

Lily held back from arguing with his statement. Mary’s memory would haunt not only him, but her for the rest of her days.

“When do you leave?” she asked instead.

“As soon as I settle things here.” Wyatt took hold of her hand and swiped his thumb back and forth across the ridges of her knuckles. “If things don’t work out for you here, you’re more than welcome to come with me.”

“As what, your housekeeper?” she responded pertly.

“As my wife.” Humor injected Wyatt’s voice and she slapped his arm.

“I’ll have to decline, Mr. Ashford, but thank you for the honor.”

Wyatt pulled her arm through his again and walked. “Before Mary died, she asked me to look out for you.”

“Much like you did during the war?” Lily asked, a sudden memory rushing back when Wyatt had rescued her from being raped by a Yankee solider who snuck on to her property back when she was trying to keep it running.

Wyatt’s mouth slanted up. “Yes. She and I had more than a few discussions about you. Mary loved you. I love you. You’re friendship for both of us is something I’ll never forget.”

“You and Mary were my dearest friends.” Lily blinked away the tears forming in her eyes. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t have done for both of you.”

“And us for you.” Wyatt cupped her cheek and smiled down at her.

Always you and Mary together as a unit. In the past she would have been pained by that thought. Now it no longer did.

“Shall we take one last stroll around before we leave?” she asked, knowing this could be the final time she saw Wyatt before he left.

“An excellent suggestion,” Wyatt responded.

Lily hugged Wyatt’s arm close as they walked on.

* * * *

When Lily entered the Delights, she came upon Tagg who had come out from one of the sitting rooms.

“Hello, Tagg. Has Rose returned yet from her errand?” she asked as she took off her hat and patted the sides of her head.

“Not yet, Mrs. Odell. She should be back before lunch. If you will excuse me, I have something important to attend to. I can have one of the maids bring a light snack to your room.”

Lily gave the proficient guard a grateful smile. “Lemonade would be nice and some of those peanut butter cookies Rose and I had for dessert last night.”

“Yes ma’am. I’ll see if I can find Josephine.” Tagg gave her a stiff bow and walked down the hall.

Lily fanned her face with her hat and unfastened the top button of her dress. Already the humidity had escalated and her walk with Wyatt left her drained. She would sit in one of the rooms in the back of the house where it was cooler until Rose returned.

A sound much like a woman’s laugh came from the front sitting room. Curious, she gave the half-opened door a push, only to stop when she saw the two in the room. Clinton had boxed Jo in against the wall near the front window and was kissing her. His hips moved back and forth and Jo rubbed her foot over his ankle. She moaned and her hands went into his hair. A groan burst from his mouth and his arms came around her, grabbing her buttocks. Loud sucking and more sighs came from both.

Lily slowly took a step back and went to close the door, when the floor creaked.

Clinton broke the kiss. His lips were red and shiny and his face had a rosy color to it. Jo gave her an embarrassed smile.

“I apologize. I’ll leave so you can carry on.”

“Don’t go. Clinton’s keeping me company while I’m dusting.” Jo pulled a rag from her skirt pocket and poked Clinton in the side.

“Um yes, I’m helping Jo with the household chores,” Clinton said and wiggled his finger against Jo’s hip. She slapped his hand away.

“Only dusting, hmm?” Lily asked, her voice lifting in a teasing matter.

Jo mumbled under her breath while Clinton gave her a wide grin as he rocked back on his heels.

“You should see us together when we sweep the floors.” Clinton winked and Jo smacked him with her rag.

“Why don’t you go and see how lunch is coming along?” Jo requested, and when Clinton grabbed her and pulled her up against his chest, Lily glanced away.

Jo and Clinton whispered to one another and when Lily looked back at them again, their lips broke apart slowly. Jo stared up at Clinton with a dreamy look and he brushed his hand over her cheek, giving her a lazy smile.

Lily cleared her throat and Clinton kissed Jo’s knuckles and walked out of the room, whistling under his breath.

Jo exhaled loudly. She grimaced and rotated her ankle in the air as she sat down on the window seat. Lily went to join her.

“You two make a very happy couple,” Lily said.

Jo covered her face and groaned. “I can’t think straight around him. Ever since we…well, ahem, he follows me everywhere. Not that I mind at all. I love being with Clinton but I’m afraid it won’t last.”

“Why would you think that way? The man is smitten with you.”

“Smitten with me?” Disbelief colored her voice. “Clinton has been with many women, most of whom are beautiful and classy. Next to them I’m plain and ordinary. He’ll grow tired of me soon enough when the novelty wears off.”

Lily rubbed Jo’s arm. “You can’t believe that. Unless you’re not comfortable with his profession? His work would put a strain on any relationship.”

“There’s that also.” Jo scratched her cheek. “Clinton hasn’t been entertaining as much as he used to. He’ll be an escort to various functions, but when his clients invite him to spend the night with them or ask about coming back here, he refuses them, or so he has told me.”

“The only bed he’s been sleeping in now is yours?” Lily asked.

Jo’s cheeks grew pink. “Well…he has started to share my bed and doesn’t leave until the next morning.”

“Perhaps he’s decided his work is no longer important to him and he wants to be loyal to you,” Lily pointed out.

Jo got up and paced in front of her as she rung her towel. “We’ve talked a great deal together over the past few weeks and he says he wants to quit here but I have nothing to offer him.”

Lily rose and crossed her arms as she stared down at Jo. “I strongly disagree. You have so much to offer a man like Clinton. You’re a wonderful home maker, as well as kind and giving. Not many women can do what you’ve done. I have a great deal of respect for you.”

“You have respect for me?” Jo’s voice caught as she lifted her hands. “That’s rich. Here I may be someone of importance, the one all the girls and the staff go to for advice. But beyond these walls I’m nobody. I’m dirt.” Jo’s mouth twisted as she eyed Lily’s blue velvet taffeta dress. “If you were still with your husband and in your perfect house and with your perfect, fake friends, you wouldn’t have acknowledged me if we walked past one another on the street.”

“Possibly, but I’ve changed,” Lily admitted. “I now have a better understanding of those who are different from me and my lifestyle. I can thank Rose for that. She has taught me so much since I’ve come to live here.”

“And what has Rose taught you?” Jo asked.

“To be open to change.” Lily sat back down on the window seat. “She makes me happy and...”

“Alive?” Jo inserted and gave Lily a pleased nod. “Just like I feel with Clinton?”

“Exactly. And why would we ruin what we have with them? It would be silly to turn away from them because we may want more than they can give us.”

“I’m not certain what you mean. You think Rose isn’t ready to give you her heart?” Jo asked as she stared at Lily. “You’re wrong.”

“How do you know?” Lily asked.

“I could ask you the same about me and Clinton. How do you know he’s willing to give up everything knowing I may not have enough to offer him? You and I may come from different backgrounds and have completely differently personalities, but we’re stuck in similar situations.”

“You’re very insightful, Miss Jonet.” Lily said and stood, wiping away the wrinkles on her dress.

“That’s the one thing I do have. I guess it makes up for what I lack in other areas.” Jo lifted the hem of her dress, showing her marred leg. “I’m limited in some ways, not that Clinton seems to mind.”

“See, there you go. Why put all your time and energy on what you may find lacking about yourself? It took me until recently to figure out obsessing over those things I don’t have will bring me a world of heartache.” Lily took hold of Jo by the arm and gave her a light shake. “Clinton and you have a special relationship regardless of both of your current circumstances. You took the first step in accepting who he is. Now take that final step and don’t look back on the past. If you do, it may destroy you where you could lose everything you’ve worked so hard to gain.”

“Perhaps you should take your own advice with Rose.” Jo indicated.

“What do you mean? Rose and I are together. We’re going to be partners—”

“That’s not what I mean,” Jo said softly. “Have you told Rose how much you care for her? Or are you still afraid she may reject you?”

What’s she going on about? “Stop right there. This isn’t about me—”

Jo moved in closer until her face was an inch away from hers. “It certainly is about you. You’re giving me some sound advice. Why not take your own?”

Lily opened her mouth to argue, but then went silent. Jo stepped back and folded her hands behind her back as she waited for her to say something.

“You think I haven’t accepted Rose for what she is? That’s not true. I have.”

“Prove it.”

“Prove it?” Lily raised her hands in an inquiry. “And how should I prove it? Do you expect me to write a letter to the newspaper announcing my love for Rose?” Lily walked around Jo and sat down heavily in a chair as she covered her mouth at the realization of her statement.

“And there you go,” Jo said and reached up to pull the heavy drape to the side. Dust flew up in the air and one of the brass rings came loose. She lifted up on her toes, trying to fix it.

The drape fell back, impeding Jo’s progress. “You may need a step stool.” Lily rose from her chair to help her.

“I think I got it.” Jo spoke over her shoulder. As her fingertips jangled the bottom of the ring, a loud whistle went off and the window in front of them exploded.

Chapter Twelve

“I’ve never seen your street this busy before,” Beau said as he stuck his head out the window of the carriage.

“There might have been an accident. Only last month two fruit carts slammed into one another. It happens from time to time.” Rose shrugged. “I can always get out here and walk the rest of the way.”

“I’ll escort you back to the Delights then. I would like to talk to Lily. That is, if she’ll see me.”

Rose gave Beau’s knee a soft squeeze and smiled. Over their pot of coffee and pastries they had a pleasant conversation about her plans for the future and how Lily would be involved. Beau surprised her by listening and offering advice.

When the carriage came to a halt, Beau knocked on the top of the carriage and opened the door. He helped her out of the carriage and then climbed out, telling the driver they would walk the rest of the way.

Arm in arm, she and Beau walked past the familiar buildings, coming upon a small crowd that had formed in front of hers.

“Whatever is going on?” she asked more to herself than to Beau. Lifting up her skirt, she broke away from him.

The people around her buzzed using words like ‘gunshot’ and ‘glass breaking.’ She made her way through the bodies blocking the entrance to the Delights and stopped as she viewed the damage to the first floor window. Ragged shards of glass stuck out from the frame and torn pieces of the drapes swayed. She rushed up the front steps, ignoring her name being called.

The front door stood slightly ajar and when she walked inside the foyer, the servants and her girls whispered to one another. A few women held each other while some sat on the staircase watching in stunned silence.

“What’s happened?” she asked to no one in particular, and when Beau took hold of her elbow, they walked toward the room.

Tagg hunched down with two men as they poked around the broken glass with pokers from the fireplace. A hysterical Alene sat next to Jo who lay prone on a divan with a towel over the side of her face. Lily knelt in front of Jo and Rose cried out when she spotted blood on Lily’s face and dress.

“Lily!” Rose rushed over to her. Small cuts covered her face and her forehead bled.

“I’m so happy you’re here now.” Lily stood and pulled her into an embrace.

Rose held Lily tightly and smoothed her hand over her hair. Beau glanced around the room. He was knocked to the side as a panicked looking Clinton ran in.

“The doctor is here,” Clinton said and picked up Jo. She cried out in pain and he shifted her against his chest. He whispered something close to her ear and with a nod at a sobbing Alene, he left the room with her following on his heels.

“Can someone please tell me why my window has been destroyed and why Jo and Lily have been hurt?” Rose asked, her frustration building at being left in the dark. She continued holding Lily as she looked at Tagg for answers.

Tagg came over to her with a thunderous look on his face. He held a gun bullet. “Someone shot this through the window.”

“What? Why would someone do such a thing?” Rose asked at a loss for words.

“Jo and I were the only ones in the room. She went to fix the drape,” Lily said in a shaky voice. “I went to help her and heard this strange whistling sound. Suddenly the window cracked and glass flew all around us. I pulled Jo away, but she took most of the blast. I think the drape protected us because it landed over us as we fell to the floor. Jo’s face was bleeding profusely and we both were covered in glass.” Lily pulled away and wiped her face.

“Oh, Lily,” Rose said and cupped Lily’s chin to get a closer look.

“We were lucky. The bullet didn’t hit us. I don’t even want to think what would have happened if…Oh, hello Beau,” Lily’s rambling halted and she shook her head. “Is he really here or am I seeing things?” Lily touched her forehead and winced from one of her cuts.

Beau came forward and pulled Lily into his arms. “I’m real, Darlin’,” he said against the top of her head as he rubbed her arms. He then lifted his fingers and they came away sticky with blood.

Rose went to take Lily back, but stopped when Lily pressed her face against Beau’s arm.

“I don’t feel well and the room is spinning.” Lily touched her forehead and her eyes rolled in the back of her head. Before she fell, Beau caught her and lifted her up in his arms.

“Show me where her room is,” Beau said in a harsh voice to Rose.

Rose knew now wasn’t the time to argue, and when she noticed Sissy hovering in the doorway, she waved her over.

“Sissy will show you to Lily’s room,” she said and went over to Lily’s maid. “Sissy, please show Mr. Odell to Lily’s room and tell one of the maids to bring warm water and bandages. “ Rose turned back to Beau. “I’ll have the doctor check Lily when he’s finished with Jo.”

Beau didn’t respond and left the room, holding Lily tightly against his chest. Sissy scrambled to follow him and as soon as they left, Rose faced Tagg again. She had to deal with the matters at hand for now and ignore how her stomach knotted over the possessive way Beau held Lily.

“In the ten years since I founded the Delights, nothing like this has ever happened before. Please tell me you have some idea who could be responsible,” Rose spoke directly to Tagg, trying her best to keep the panic out of her voice. Now of all times she had to be her strongest.

“Perhaps it would be better if we go into your office away from prying eyes and ears. We can talk freely there,” Tagg suggested.

“Have the authorities been called for?” she asked. She wasn’t thrilled by the police investigating, but if they could figure out the person or people responsible for destroying her property and harming her loved ones, she would welcome them and even serve them tea if she had to.

“I sent one of the men out as soon as this happened. For now I think we should keep everything where it is until the police arrive.”

“I agree. Let’s talk quickly so when the law does come they won’t make any excuses and do their jobs my taxes pay them for.” With the sweep of her dress, Rose stormed off with Tagg beside her. She didn’t speak to anyone else, and took in deep breaths to stop her rage from erupting, rushing upstairs to take care of Lily.

* * * *

After Rose finished talking with the police and supervised the cleanup of the damaged window, including removing the bloodstains on the carpet, she went to check on Jo. On the other side of the second floor where Alene’s room was located, she found Jo’s door open with Alene lying down on her bed with her arm across a sleeping Jo. The left side of her face was covered with a white bandage and red marks marred her chest and arms. Clinton didn’t sit on the bed as she’d expected, but leaned against the window as he watched over both sisters.

Rose remained in the doorway. Clinton glanced her way. His eyes were red and as he squeezed the back of his neck, his hand shook. She came further into the room and he lifted up his finger to his mouth and shook his head, motioning at the bed.

With a nod, she backed away as an anguished moan came from Jo. Clinton rushed over to her side and bent over her. Her eyes flickered open and she rolled, facing Alene. Clinton stared down at her, wiping away his damp cheek. Alene whispered something to him and he replied. Alene nodded and glanced at Rose. Her mouth quivered as she gently combed her fingers through Jo’s hair spreading it out on the pillow.

The tender scene nearly broke Rose’s heart and she went into the hallway to wait for Clinton to join her. A short time later, he emerged and closed the door behind him with a soft snap.

“How’s she doing?” Rose asked.

Clinton cracked his knuckles and his eyes darkened as his body stiffened. “She’s in pain. The doctor gave her laudanum to help her sleep. The left side of her face,” he ran his fingers down his cheek, “has the most damage. He had to take out pieces of glass and then stitch up from her cheek to under her ear. She’ll have a scar for the rest of her life.”

“Oh dear.” Rose lifted her hands to her mouth.

“When I find the bastard who did this, I’m going to rip his balls off and force them down his throat.” Clinton spat and lifted his fist. A tear fell from the corner of his eye.

Rose pulled him into her arms. A shudder left his body as he rested his head against hers. “I can’t lose her…I can’t.”

“I understand completely.” Rose rubbed his back, thoughts of Lily consuming her. She needed to see her as soon as possible to make certain she was all right.

Clinton broke away and rubbed a hand over his mouth. “I know this isn’t the right time or place to say this, but I can’t work for you any longer. Jo means too much to me. As soon as she’s well, I want to take her away from here.”

“And what will you do if Jo won’t go with you? She’s leaving with Alene next week,” Rose pointed out.

“I’ll kidnap her if I have to and make her see we belong together.” Clinton gave her an arrogant stare, daring her to argue. “She won’t be able to run off if I keep her busy in my bed.”

“She may see things differently now because of what has transpired,” Rose pointed out cautiously. “You must take care with her.”

Clinton squeezed his nose. “I plan on marrying her. That should prove how much I love her.”

Rose cut off her chuckle. “You’re a tenacious fellow. When things have settled down with Jo, come see me tomorrow. I may have a new job situation that could be a great benefit to you and your future.”

Clinton gave her an uncertain look. “Would this job allow me to keep my clothes on?”

“Yes, Clinton,” Rose said and squeezed his arm. “Go be with the woman you love. I plan on seeing mine now.”

“Good luck with Lily,” Clinton said, giving her a knowing look.

“And same to you,” Rose responded and turned down the hall to walk up the stairs to the third level. Her stomach cramped with nerves, not knowing what she would find when she saw Lily.

Her walk seemed to take forever. She had just reached her own door, when Lily’s door opened and Sissy came out with a tray covered with empty dishes and the remains of food.

“How is Lily fairing? Is the doctor still with her? Did Beau leave?” The questions rattled off her tongue in anticipation for the answers.

“The doctor left some time ago. Mr. Odell is still with Miss Lily.” Sissy’s fingers whitened as she tightened them around the tray. “Miss Lily is doin’ better than she was before. The doctor cleaned up her face some and now she’s restin’ in bed.” Sissy gave Rose an awkward look. “Mr. Odell is lying next to Miss Lily and they’re both whisperin’ to one another.”

“Oh.” Rose laid her palm against the wall, her head becoming lightheaded.

“Mr. Odell said I could leave and he’d take care of Miss Lily for the rest of the night.”

“Beau—Mr. Odell will be spending the night with Lily?” Rose asked, her chest contracting to include a slight throbbing behind her eyes.

“I’m not rightly sure. You could always go in and see them,” Sissy recommended.

Rose pressed her fingertips to her pounding forehead. “I simply must take something for this dreadful headache.”

Sissy gave her an understanding nod. “It’s been a day full of headaches.”

“Indeed it has,” Rose said and opened the door to her room.

“Miss Rose, Miss Lily kept askin’ for you right up until the doctor fixed her up.”

“Thank you for telling me, Sissy.” Rose gave her a small smile and the sting in her chest lessened.

“You’re good for my Missus. After everything she’s gone through with the war, losin’ her baby and what Mr. Odell did to her, she needs someone besides myself to care for her.”

“As long as Lily wants me in her life, I’ll be there,” Rose held back a grimace as the pain in her head grew. “Excuse me now.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Sissy said and walked away.

Rose went into her room and leaned back against the door. She closed her eyes and bright spots appeared behind them. She had to lie down and get some rest since she would be up early tomorrow. But before she could go to bed, she needed to see how Lily was fairing.

First she went into the washroom and took some headache powder. Drinking down the chalky mixture, she walked over to the oval mirror on the wall and carefully took it down. Part of the wallpaper protruded out and she lifted the piece up and placed her eye over the hole to spy into the next room.

She caught sight of Lily in bed. She was lying on her side facing her with the covers up to her waist and wearing only a thin chemise. Behind her lay Beau, in his shirttails with his arm around her. Their fingers were linked together. Beau moved his face near Lily’s ear and his lips moved. Lily nodded, her eyes flickering open then closed.

Rose covered her mouth as Lily moved on to her back, turning her face against Beau’s throat. She murmured something and his hand came up, lightly rubbing her cheek where it was red and slightly discolored.

Pulling the flap back down over the hole in the wall, Rose twined a curl around her finger as she went over to the table near the window to grab a bottle of alcohol. She poured herself a glass of whiskey and sat down on the chair next to the fireplace, the same chair where Lily had come to her a few weeks ago and asked her to make love to her. She longed for Lily terribly, to hold her close and be the one in her bed, not Beau.

I should go in there and take her from him!

A small sob left her mouth as she downed her drink. Acting the jealous lover wouldn’t accomplish anything. She had to keep a steady head. She’d suffer in silence, only a few feet away, as Lily slept with her former husband, the man she’d always loved.

“Don’t jump to conclusions,” Rose whispered and got up from the chair. This time she took the bottle and went into her bedroom. She quickly disrobed and got into her bed naked. She sipped from the bottle, wishing Lily could be with her.

Finally her headache left her, but not the ache deep inside as she drifted off to sleep under an alcoholic haze.

Her last thoughts were of Lily. For the first time in a long time she prayed. She prayed to a higher power that Lily wouldn’t turn to Beau for comfort, which would lead to them being naked and their bodies damp with their mutual release.

Chapter Thirteen

In the light of the next day, the boarded up window was an eyesore, but would have to remain so until it could be fixed. Tagg assured her the room would be righted in two days’ time and things would be back to normal by then. Rose put on a brave face and acted as if everything was fine, but she knew it wouldn’t be for a long time.

She then had her meeting with Clinton. He accepted the new job she offered him that would allow him to keep his clothes on and not engage in any scandalous acts unless Jo was the only one involved. Afterward, she sat in her office making a list of anyone who would wish her harm. The only logical person she could come up with was Margaret Anne. But would Margaret Anne go as far as to shoot up her window in broad daylight? Could she be filled with such jealous hate that she would do such a thing?

She dropped her face onto her arms on the top of her desk. She really didn’t want to deal with this knowing Lily was still in her room with Beau...

The loud knock on her door made her lift her head.

“Enter,” she barked.

The door opened and Lily stood there in a green and white striped day dress with her hair piled high on her head.

“I don’t mean to be a bother and interrupt—”

“You’re never a bother. Please, come in and sit down.” Rose jumped up from her chair and walked around the desk.

Rose’s fingers ached with the urge to grab Lily and kiss her. Instead, she leaned back against her desk and soaked in everything Lily did from the way she closed the door to the sway of her hips as she walked over to her.

“How are you doing? I meant to check in on you last night, but had other pressing matters to deal with.” Rose waved her hand in the vicinity of Lily’s face. Other than some swelling on Lily’s cheek and red marks near her throat, she looked well.

Lily touched her cheek. “I was lucky. It’s Jo who concerns me. I went to go see her but she’s resting. Clinton answered the door. He told me to come back later when Jo’s up for having guests.”

“He’s barely left her side since yesterday.” Rose fiddled with one of the bows on her skirt. “He took her back to her room this morning so Alene can get some rest. She stayed up most of the night watching over Jo.”

Lily took a step closer and Rose’s breath caught in her throat. “She’s very lucky to have so many people care for her.” Lily placed her hand over Rose’s. “Why didn’t you come see me last night?” she asked.

Rose’s hand twitched as Lily drifted her fingers back and forth over the side of her stiff ones. She finally pulled away, dropping her arms to her sides. “You had Beau to take care of you. I wasn’t needed.”

“You’re a foolish, stubborn woman, Rose Ware,” Lily stated in an incensed voice.

Rose opened her mouth to argue, but not one peep left her, for Lily hands came around her head and gave her a kiss.

A deep moan left Rose, and when Lily’s fingers dug into the back of her nape, she pulled her roughly against her and kissed her greedily. She gave her open mouth kisses, which Lily received by opening her own mouth wide and tangling her tongue with Rose’s searching one.

By the time she needed air, Rose had pulled Lily’s hair out of her pins and her mouth was swollen and red. Her own throbbed, among other key areas on her body aching to be caressed and filled.

“I should make you angry more often,” Rose joked and spread her fingers through Lily’s hair, making a curtain over her shoulders.

Lily gave her a disgruntled look as she pressed her palms against Rose’s chest. Rose shifted to push her breast into Lily’s palm. Lily cupped her there, squeezing her flesh and causing her nipple to harden.

“I came here to talk to you.” Lily removed her hand.

Rose released a suffering sigh. “Then why did you kiss me just now? It makes me want to do other things besides talk.” Rose went over to the settee in the corner and patted the seat next to her. Lily followed and sat down, taking Rose’s hands in both of hers.

“I missed you and wanted to make certain you tasted the same like the last time I kissed you,” Lily said and turned Rose’s hand over to trace the lines on her palm.

Lily’s simple touch made her inner thighs slick and she pressed her legs tightly together to cover her arousal. First they would clear the air and then spend an hour or so involved in more amorous pursuits if she had any say.

“I missed your kisses also, but after yesterday and then Beau spending the night with you, I...” Rose cut herself off and cursed under her breath.

Lily tugged on her chin and she looked back at her. “I was badly shaken up and Beau was there to help me. I didn’t expect you to tend to me. You had more important things to deal with. Beau put me to bed and stayed as the doctor did his examination of me. We had dinner and I fell asleep. When I woke this morning he was gone.”

I saw you in his arms in bed! Rose wanted to shout, but then Lily would ask how she knew and she’d have to admit to her peeping. It was best to keep that a secret better left to reveal at a later date when she and Lily were fully committed to one another.

“Rose, you’ve become pale. Please tell me you aren’t upset about Beau staying with me overnight. You must believe me when I tell you nothing happened between us.” Lily’s voice shook and she clutched Rose’s hands harder. “We only talked and nothing else. For once we didn’t argue or accuse each other of lies. I think we’ve put the past behind us and can move on.”

“I believe you, Lily.” Rose cupped Lily’s cheek. “I had a moment of jealousy about you and Beau combined with alarm over Jo and the individual responsible for causing such destruction. It’s been a long time since I’ve been involved with someone like you who I can’t stop thinking about and want to have a future with.”

“We already have a business partnership together—”

“No Lily, I’m not talking about business. I mean our personal relationship. I want us to be committed to one another not only as friends, but as lovers.”

Lily rose from the settee and wrapped her arm around her waist. Rose’s stomach knotted as she waited for some sort of response from Lily. Damn it, I shouldn’t have spoken so strongly.

Before she could explain her statement further, Lily dropped to her knees in front of her and curled her arms around her waist.

“What are you doing, Lily?”

Lily stared up at Rose, her eyes bright, shining with tears as they wet her lashes. “Not a day goes by where I don’t think of you. You’ve become one, if not the most important person in my life. I don’t feel I have to act or speak a certain way when I’m with you. You love me for who I am.”

“I love you for everything you are and can be,” Rose said softly and kissed Lily’s forehead.

Lily eyes closed and she smiled, lifting up her face and finding Rose’s mouth. They shared a kiss that held promise for both of them. Rose, overcome with emotion, clasped Lily tight against her. Rose climbed up until she sat next to her and kissed her with such force, she fell back against the couch.

“Let’s go up to your room,” Lily said against Rose’s throat as she molded her breasts in her hands.

“It’s too far away. I need you now.” Rose began unlacing the back of Lily’s dress. She had to touch and taste every part of Lily’s body before she exploded. Lily had become vital to her as the air she breathed and water she drank to quench her thirst.

She slid out from underneath her and as Lily opened her mouth, she gave her another kiss, licking and sucking her lips until Lily sighed and landed flat on the couch. Rose’s eyes brightened upon catching the top part of Lily’s nipple where her bodice gaped.

She paid homage to Lily’s breasts with her hands and mouth. Then ever so slowly, lifted up Lily’s dress and spread her palms over the top of her thighs. Her own juices dripped down her legs as she caught sight of Lily in only her garters and stockings, sans her drawers. She plunged her face against Lily’s mound and inhaled deeply, her arousal a sweet perfume she wanted to bathe in.

“Let me love you,” Rose combed her fingers through Lily’s damp curls. She would lap and suckle her there until not one drop remained.

“I want you to love me like I love you!” Lily cried out as Rose pulled apart her pussy lips and stuck her tongue inside. She curled her tongue around Lily’s clit and sucked down. Lily grabbed hold of her hair and pulled hard.

“I do love you.” Rose bobbed her head up and down, making Lily squirm underneath her. Her tongue went in deeper and she moved her other hand down and under her dress to play with herself as she brought Lily to peak. The friction of her hand and the way Lily grabbed her hair made her come far too quickly. But she didn’t let up as she ate away at Lily’s moist cunt.

“I can’t hold back.” Lily sat up and panted. Rose circled her tongue in Lily’s slit, almost laughing from the joy as Lily’s inner muscles tried to keep her tongue prisoner as they latched on in a greedy suction.

Only when Lily shook and stiffened, did Rose cease her sport. She inserted her fingers inside Lily and pumped back and forth as she moved her face up and over Lily’s chest to suck down on her breast. Lily rocked against her invading finger, her nails scratching her back, trying to find purchase as her body shook from her impending climax.

Rose continued to move her fingers inside Lily even after she came, finding delight in the way Rose’s pussy milked her, releasing more of her juices. She panted alongside Lily, peppering kisses, only stopping to nibble over her nipples. When Lily’s tremors subsided, she met her mouth and their tongues dueled with one another. They never stopped kissing, not even when someone knocked on the door.

What felt like hours went by. Rose tasted blood in her mouth and her lips grew numb from all the kissing she and Lily did. Afterward, she lay exhausted over Lily. Her fingers remained snug inside her precious lover and Lily gave no complaint as she brushed her hand over Rose’s hair. Her eyes drifted closed, comforted by the caress.

“Thank you for coming into my life when I needed it,” Lily whispered and placed her cheek against the side of Rose’s head.

Rose breathed in Lily’s scent and she cupped Lily’s mound. Lily dropped her hand over Rose’s and when she pulled out her fingers, Lily linked their hands together.

“No one will ever separate us. We will be together forever,” Rose stated and looked up at Lily’s sleepy face.

“Forever sounds lovely,” Lily said and closed her eyes, her lips tilting up in a satisfied grin.

“All I want is a forever with you.” Rose rested her head against Lily’s chest and listened to the pounding of her heart. Her finger traced around Rose’s areola, and when Lily halted her playing, she gave her a questioning look.

“We’ll need to move soon. I think the entire house heard us. I wonder how scandalized they are?” Lily’s eyes twinkled in humor and Rose snickered.

“It’s nothing they haven’t heard before within these walls. Between the both of us we’re surely to cause a scandal each week. We’ll turn Charleston on its ear.” Rose sat up and stretched.

Lily joined her and they both shared a look and started laughing. Their laughter finally settled down as they shared more kisses, and when they emerged from the room in their wrinkled dresses and their hair in need of restyling, they walked with their arms around one another as they went to have lunch.

Neither the servants nor the other women of the house gave them strange looks and just smiles, happy for their Madam and her lover.

* * * *

“Jo, you must eat something.”

“I don’t want anything. Leave me alone,” Jo told Alene who twisted her hands until they started turning red. Alene had been hovering over her for hours and she couldn’t stand it any longer. She’d always been the one to fuss, not Alene. The role reversal was something she’d laugh about if she was in better spirits.

She doubted she would ever laugh again.

Alene sat down on the bed and gave her shoulder a light shake. Jo pulled away and faced the window. The bandage on her face pulled and she winced from the stitches. She was also hot even as a short gust of air came from the open window and brushed alongside her body.

“Leave me in peace. I just want to sleep.” She fisted her fingers into the pillow. She felt groggy and achy, mainly from the laudanum she had been given yesterday. Her sleep had been far from restful and her dreams were filled with dark shadows and scary faces with jagged teeth trying to bite her.

“Yes, rest for now. I’ll return later before Monty arrives,” Alene sounded overly cheerful. “I’m going to show him how I decorated the house. And when you’re better, we can start moving in. It will all be grand!”

“Grand? I don’t think I ever heard you use that word before,” Jo groused, wrapping her arms around her knees. Her nightgown stuck to her body and she couldn’t wait until she was alone to wash the stickiness away. Also she’d be able to see how much damage had been done to her face.

“I have a better vocabulary from the books I’ve been reading.” The bed dipped as Alene rose. She touched the back of Jo’s head lightly and then gave her a soft pat.

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine,” Jo said.

“At least you won’t be alone for long. Clinton should be back soon—”

“I don’t want him here either!” Jo sat up, blinked rapidly as blinding spots appeared in front of her eyes.

“Jo, you’ll hurt yourself. Please lie down and rest.” Alene lifted a hand toward her, worry crossing her face.

Jo lay back down and stared up at the ceiling. “Go.”

“All right, I’m leaving. But I’ll check in on you when I return later this evening.”

Jo didn’t respond and when Alene closed the door behind her, she sat up gingerly this time. Her whole body throbbed in pain and her head felt like it was ready to pop. For once her leg didn’t bother her.

Tugging down the collar of her nightgown, she grimaced over the cuts and bruises lining her collarbone and upper arms. Moving slowly off the bed, she held onto the bed frame as the room tilted slightly to the right. When her vision cleared, she shuffled over to the door and locked it. She didn’t want to be disturbed, least of all by Clinton.

Grabbing a towel off the hook on the wall, she went into her small water closet. Pouring water from the pitcher into the bowl, she dipped her elbow in, satisfied with the temperature. As she pulled down the straps of her nightgown, she caught sight of her reflection in the mirror. Her lips trembled as she viewed the bandage covering her cheek. While in her drug induced haze, she’d overheard the doctor telling Alene how she would have a scar on her cheek for the rest of her life. She slammed her hands down on the table and it shook from the force. Her head dropped forward and she inhaled deeply to stop the moisture from building behind her eyes.

The door to her room vibrated as someone thumped on it. She ignored it and soaked the towel. As she soaped up the fabric, the pounding grew more insistent until a familiar voice spoke on the other end.

“Josephine, answer the door. I know you’re in there. Alene told me you yelled at her to leave you alone.”

Jo threw the towel down and walked back into her bedroom. She sat down on the bed, not responding. Finally the knocking stopped.

Her lips tilted up. She groaned as a sharp pain shot down the side of her face.

“Josephine Jonet, if you don’t answer the door right this very minute I’ll break it down. You’re testing my patience,” Clinton snarled.

“I could kill Alene,” Jo muttered and went over to the door. She opened it and before she could tell Clinton to go to hell, he stomped in and pulled the door shut behind him.

“You had me scared there for a minute,” Clinton said and took hold of her arms.

She pulled away from him and went over to a chair to pull on her robe. Clinton came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her.

“Please don’t touch me,” Jo said in a broken voice, trying her best not to lean back against his chest.

“You never minded my touch before. Why now?” Clinton rumbled in her ear and when he kissed the side of her neck, she twisted in his arms and pushed him away.

“I’m an ugly cripple now! Why would you want to touch me?” She backed away, hugging herself.

“Don’t you dare call yourself such a thing,” Clinton said and reached for her.

She moved around, pulling a chair in front of her.

Clinton lifted an eyebrow and rolled his eyes. “You really think that could stop me. If I want to, I could have you under me in a hot second.”

“Is sex all you think about?” Jo asked in disbelief.

“When it comes to you, yes.” Clinton winked and moved the chair off to the side.

“You don’t give up, do you?” Jo sat down on the side of the bed and looked down at her lap. Clinton hunched down in front of her and took her hands in his.

“I’ll never give up on you, darlin’ Jo,” he replied in a slow drawl and when his arms came around her, she rested her chin on his shoulder.

“How can you still want to be with me? Not only is my face a fright but I’m in a piss poor mood that’s not likely to change anytime soon,” Jo grumbled.

Clinton sat back on his heels as his eyes roamed over her face. “You see something frightful, I see beauty.”

“Stop buttering me up with your fancy words. I know what my limits are now.” Jo pressed her palm over her bandage. “I know what the doctor said about my face. How can you be near me? You deserve better.”

Clinton’s face grew hard and he rose. Tugging her into the water closet, he studied her in the mirror. She fidgeted under his examination.

“I don’t care what your face looks like. I still want you.” Clinton placed his hand against her stomach, pushing her back against his arousal. He rubbed against her ass, his cock poking her in the lower back.

“How can you...” Jo turned away and bit her lip.

“I’m attracted to you because I love you,” Clinton said and turned Jo in his arms. Her hands came up and she fisted them into his shirt. She closed her eyes as his mouth brushed over forehead, her cheek, and chin while his fingers made circles over her ass cheeks.

“You could change your mind when this bandage comes off.” Jo released a shudder as Clinton gave her a slow, thorough kiss.

“I’ve never loved any other woman until you, Josephine.” Clinton’s hand brushed over her hair. “Let me prove it to you. Remove your bandage.”

Jo’s eyes shot open. “Is that wise? Don’t I need to keep it on to stop the infection?”

“We’re only taking a quick peek. Unless you’re scared?” Clinton taunted and released her.

“I’m scared in ways you can’t understand,” Jo admitted and turned to face the mirror again. She took a deep breath and slowly pulled down the bandage while keeping her eyes on Clinton the entire time.

When her abused cheek was uncovered she remained silent as she viewed the damage. A line of stitches ran down her cheek where it was red and swollen. Also yellow and purple bruises covered the area. She winced as she poked the stitches where the jagged pieces of glass had torn away her skin.

“It’s not pretty,” she said and pulled apart her robe where other cuts littered her skin.

Clinton’s arms came around her and rocked her gently. “Right now it looks worse than it is. When the swelling goes down and the stitches are taken out and your cheek heals, you’ll have a scar but nothing as horrible as you’re thinking. It could have been a great deal worse.” Clinton rubbed his face into her hair. “Thank god the drape blocked the glass. If I could, I would take your scar away from you and put it on my face instead.”

“And ruin your meal ticket? I don’t think you’d have many clients then,” Jo stated and put the bandage back on.

“Unfortunately my clients will have to look elsewhere. I don’t think my wife will be pleased with me sharing a bed with others for sex.”

Jo’s heart sped up and her stomach jumped. “Wi-wife?”

“Yes, my wife.” Clinton took her hands in his and got down on one knee. “I hoped to do this in a more romantic setting, but I can’t wait any longer. Josephine Jonet, you will honor me with your hand in marriage.”

“That sounds like a statement and not a question,” Jo said.

Clinton rose. “It’s not a question. You’re marrying me as soon as possible.”

Jo rested back against the table as she gave Clinton a cocky stare. “Oh really? And how will you support your wife without any work? Do you expect her to be the main bread winner as she works as her sister’s maid and servant?”

“Get that out of your head. You’re not working for your sister.” Clinton’s hand slashed through the air. “I’ve been offered another job, one where I don’t have to be naked, unless it’s with you. Rose wants me to be the manager of her new gaming hall she’s opening with Lily. I’ve accepted and told her you’ll no longer be working because you’ll be busy taking care of our new home and watching our children.”

“Children? You work fast. And how many children do you expect us to have?” Jo asked in a snippy voice.

“I won’t accept anything less than six.” Clinton landed his hands on each side of her and grinned. “I want little girls with their mother’s golden hair and beautiful brown eyes.”

“And little boys with their father’s blond curls and dashing smile?” Jo’s arms came around Clinton’s shoulders as she smiled up at him.

“We’ll have the most darling children together,” Clinton replied and gave her a kiss.

Jo opened her mouth to receive him and pulled her fingers through the hair curling over the nape of his neck. She licked the inside corner of his mouth, breaking off the kiss as she moved her mouth over until it was close to his ear. “We may have to start working on making these six children as soon as we can. I’m not a young woman.”

Clinton’s husky laugh made her legs tremble. His hands moved up and down her back and she hugged him closer.

“Is that a yes?” he asked in a tensed voice.

Jo kissed Clinton’s cheek and moved back. “I guess it is. I haven’t had many offers and now that I’m an ugly—”

Clinton pressed his palm over her mouth. “Don’t make me pull you over my knee. You’ll never be ugly to me, or your sister or anyone here at the Delights. So what if you have a bad leg or a scar on your face? We all have scars, some noticeable, some hidden deep down inside.”

“And where are your scars, Clinton?” Jo asked.

“In my heart, but they all have been healed thanks to you.”

Jo swatted Clinton playfully against the back of his head. “You’re going to make me cry.” She sniffed and wiped her eyes.

“Happy tears this time,” Clinton gave her another kiss.

She nodded and kissed him back. “Only happy tears from now on.”

“You can count on it,” Clinton said, breaking the kiss. He reached behind her and lifted up the damp towel. “You were washing?”

“I was going to give myself a quick bath, but then you interrupted me.”

Clinton brushed the towel back and forth across her chest, causing her nipples to harden. His eyes grew wide and he licked his lips as her body respond to his administrations. “I do believe you’re still too weak to bathe yourself. I insist on helping you wash those hard to reach places like your back and in between your legs.”

Jo felt a blush rising on her face but hid her reaction as she tugged down the straps of her nightgown and wiggled her hips to let it fall in a puddle at her feet. “I’m feeling tired and don’t think I could lift a finger.”

Clinton unbuttoned his shirt and pulled it off. Jo sat down on the wooden bench, overcome by the magnificence of Clinton’s arms and chest. Clinton left the room and came back with a pillow and another towel. He placed the pillow under her head as she lay back, spreading her legs apart as she pressed her feet down on the bench. Clinton grabbed the washcloth, bowl, and soap and put it on the floor as he straddled the bench near her feet. His hands slid down the inside of her legs as his mouth descended.

“First I must make certain this area is clean.” Clinton cupped her mound, causing her to arch up. “It’s very dirty and soap and water is not good enough. Only my mouth will do.”

Jo pulled her fingers through Clinton’s hair as his breath swept over her. His tongue moved over her navel and she sighed. “Make me clean, Clinton.”

“Whatever my future bride wants, she’ll have.”

“Yes,” Jo whispered and enjoyed the loving care of her husband-to-be, the only man who made her believe she was beautiful and flawless.

Chapter Fourteen

“Madam, I’d say tonight has been a rousing success.”

Rose lifted her glass of champagne and clanked her glass against Clinton’s. She drank slowly as she watched the action down below. The opening night of Lily’s Rose was filled with far too many men, as well as women, as they gambled at the tables, danced in the ballroom, and ate at the various buffets on each level of the club.

Opening her fan, Rose waved it back and forth to cool off her face. The June night was humid and sticky, but that didn’t stop the festivities. As soon as the sun set, and the doors opened, the club was inundated with Charleston’s best. It also helped that the Delights remained opened under the watchful eye of Tagg and Josephine. Soon she would find Lily and together they would walk the short distance back to check on things there.

Rose eyed a striking looking Clinton who wore a tuxedo, complete with top coat and tails. He appeared relaxed and happy in truth, and not as an act, ever since he and Jo had been married earlier in the month.

The buzzing of the crowd below filled the large room and she took pride in the outcome of the construction she had rushed to get done in less than eight weeks. The money she threw her builder’s way worked wonders.

“I’m going to take a final walk around before I head back to the Delights. I hope I can find Lily in this crush,” she announced, giving Clinton’s arm a squeeze.

“Lily said something about going back to change her shoes.”

“Did she go alone?” Rose asked. She wouldn’t put it past Lily to do such a thing.

“I’m not sure. I told her to ask one of the guards to escort her back. I was pulled away before I could see if she had done so,” Clinton explained.

“I better go see if I can find her. Even though the streets are filled with many people tonight, I don’t like the idea of Lily walking around unescorted.” An uneasy jolt ran up her spine. The individual who had shot up the window had never been caught and was still on the loose. Even though there hadn’t been any other disturbances, she still was unsettled about the whole thing.

“Would you like me to search for Lily with you?” Clinton asked.

“I can look for Lily myself. She may still…what in the world?” Rose exclaimed as she leaned over the banister stunned by what she saw.

“What’s the matter?” Clinton asked and searched down below.

Rose lifted up on her toes as Margaret Anne and Lily walked together along the edge of the room. Margaret Anne held Lily close and whispered in her ear as Lily glanced around wildly. When she stopped suddenly and tried to pull her arm away, Rose zoned on Margaret Anne’s hand and what looked to be a small pistol hidden in the folds of her dress. Her mouth moved swiftly and Lily’s eyes widened as she eyed the gun. Margaret Anne gave her a push, keeping her hand around Lily’s arm the entire time as they walked toward one of the exits.

“She has a gun! We must stop her.” Rose lifted her dress and flew down the stairs.

“Who has a gun?” Clinton asked as he followed behind her.

“Margaret Anne Bourdieu does and she’s taken Lily hostage.” Rose forced her way through the crowds, calling out for Clinton to get help as she tried to reach Lily before Margaret Anne shot her for revenge.

* * * *

Lily held back from slapping the woman in the face as she poked her in the side again with her pistol. They both walked down the stairs and outside away from the building. Only when they reached a shadowy section surrounded by trees and a bench did they stop.

“Don’t move, you stupid bitch.”

Spit hit Lily in the face. She clenched her fists and stared down at Rose’s former lover.

“You’re the woman Rose was once involved with.”

Margaret Anne smirked and jabbed the gun against Lily’s chest. “I’m the one Rose loves.”

Lily bit the inside of her cheek to stop from arguing with the crazed woman in front of her. Margaret Anne’s eyes were round and bright as if she had one too many glasses of champagne. She kept twitching and every time an owl hooted or the branches above them swayed in the breeze, she’d glance around nervously.

“Perhaps at one time she did, but no longer,” Lily said softly.

Margaret Anne pushed her roughly and she slammed back into the tree behind her. “Shut your trap, you faithless slut! Before you came along Rose and I were happy. She felt sorry for you because your husband threw you out like yesterday’s rubbish.” Margaret Anne eyed her up and down. “Why would Rose want a skinny bean pole with sagging tits, when she can have a woman like me?”

“Because Lily is not a crazy loon like you are, Anne.”

A cry of surprise escaped Margaret Anne’s mouth and she aimed the gun up under Lily’s chin as she faced Rose. Lily mouthed her name and lifted her hand out toward her. Rose shook her head slightly in warning and Lily dropped her arm back down.

“You always come to me,” Margaret Anne said to Rose and gave her a sickly smile. Lily flinched as Margaret Anne’s nails dug deep into her arm.

“Anne, what in the world are you doing?” Rose asked and took a step close. “Do you really think I’ll come back to you now after ruining my night and scaring Lily this way? It’s just not done,” she said in a hard voice.

Margaret Anne moved the gun away from under Lily’s chin and back to her side. Lily winced. By tomorrow, if she lived that long, she would have a horrible bruise there.

“I can’t stand by and watch you be with this whore.” Margaret Anne shook Lily by the arm, while staring at Rose. “I won’t be forgotten by you either.” Her mouth formed into a smirk. “I got your attention when I shot up your window.”

“You sure did. Why don’t you let Lily go and we can talk—”

“How stupid do you think I am? Stop placating me like I’m a child. I’m not.” Margaret Anne stamped her foot and her lips twisted into an ugly frown.

“Calm down.” Rose lifted both her hands and took another step closer to them. “You can rest assured I’ll never forget you after the damage you caused to my home and your actions here tonight.”

Margaret Anne beamed at Rose. “I just want to be with you. You made me so angry. But I-I do feel horrible for the way I treated you in our hotel room. Can you forgive me?”

“Anne—”

“I love how you say my middle name, Anne.” Margaret Anne batted her eye lashes and sighed. “I can still remember the way you whispered it in my ear as you caressed my breasts and sucked on my throat, leaving your mark there to show the world that I belonged to you.”

Lily swallowed a growl. Red materialized in front of her eyes at Margaret Anne’s flowery speech. She couldn’t stand to listen to Margaret Anne’s nauseating words of love. And she certainly wouldn’t end up being her victim.

Rose whispered something Lily couldn’t catch and as she pulled back her fist to punch Margaret Anne in the face, with the purpose to grab the gun, two men appeared behind Rose. One was Clinton, the other a well-dressed older man with a black pencil thin mustache and salt and pepper hair.

“Margaret Anne, what in the world are you doing?” the man asked in a cultured voice.

Margaret Anne moved back, pulling Lily with her. “Nigel, what are you doing here?”

Nigel stomped over, passing by Rose and going toe to toe with Margaret Anne. She stared at him wordless, and when he wiggled his fingers at her, she handed him the gun.

“Lily, quick, come here.” Rose beckoned her over.

Lily wrenched her arm from Margaret Anne’s grip and hurried over to Rose, who wrapped an arm around her waist and led her a safe distant away.

“Who is that man?” Lily whispered to Rose.

“Margaret Anne’s husband,” Rose said and she nodded at Clinton who took Lily gently by the elbow and moved her back even further. Suddenly two men appeared and came up behind Nigel.

“My dear, you’ve ruined my night. I came here to gamble and unwind, and you have to go and ruin it.” Nigel turned slightly to wave behind him. “Your friendship with Mrs. Ware is over. This childish act of yours is the last straw.” He took his wife by her arm and pulled her up tight against him. “Did you forget what the ramifications of your actions would be if you humiliated me one last time?”

Margaret Anne’s jaw dropped and tears filled her eyes. “Oh please, no. I promise I’ll be good. You can’t expect me to give up Rose—”

Nigel shook Margaret Anne hard. “Shut up. I’m sick and tired of your childish tantrums.” He pushed Margaret Anne over to the two men who grabbed her by the arms. She struggled, calling out for Rose to help her. Nigel pulled out a small bottle from his pocket, and opened it, where he waved the contents under Margaret Anne’s nose. She suddenly stopped her crying and would have folded the ground if not for the support of the men next to her. One lifted her up in his arms. Clinton motioned them to follow him and they left with their unconscious bundle.

Lily watched the puzzling exchange and glanced at Rose who gave her hip a squeeze. Rose smiled briefly at Nigel who took out a handkerchief and wiped his brow.

“Are you going to blame me for Margaret Anne’s flighty actions of late?” she asked him.

Nigel crossed his arms, tapping his fingers on his upper bicep. “You’re not the cause of my wife’s nature. I should have reined her in a long time ago. She won’t bother you or your lady friend any longer. I apologize for any inconvenience.”

“That’s all you have to say? The woman tried to kill me!” Lily shouted out and Rose hushed her quietly.

“We’ll talk about this later,” Rose murmured and then put her attention back on Nigel. “You can promise me Margaret Anne will no longer be a nuisance to me or my friend?”

“Yes.” Nigel came in closer. “Margaret Anne and I will be taking an extended holiday to Europe where her excitable nature will be examined and hopefully cured by a few physicians in Switzerland.” Nigel glanced around and shook his head, his lip curling upward. “Charleston has lost its appeal for me. A change in scenery will be the right thing for Mrs. Bourdieu. Won’t you agree, Mrs. Ware?”

“Yes, Mr. Bourdieu. I think it would be for the best.” Rose nodded and pulled Lily in closer. “I recommend you call it a night and attend to your wife. I really hope this is the last time I see you or her again.”

Nigel bowed to her and Lily. “That’s a promise I can keep. Good night, Mrs. Ware. Goodnight ma’am.”

When Nigel left, Lily covered her mouth to smother her cries. Rose’s arms came around her and petted her hair. She hid her face against Rose’s throat, mumbling words that made no sense, while Rose kissed the top of her head.

“Everything will be all right now, my Lily,” Rose whispered and lifted Lily’s face as she kissed her brow.

Lily shuddered and held onto Rose’s arms. “I’m so very confused by what has happened. I think I need to lie down.”

Rose brushed away her tears. “We’ll talk back at home. Let’s see Clinton first to tell him we’re leaving for the night. I’ll call a carriage. You’ve had quite a scare and aren’t in the right mind to walk back to the Delights.”

“Take me home then.” Lily tightened her hold around Rose. “You’ll lie next to me and hold me?”

Rose gave her a tender kiss and smiled. “There’s no need to ask that. Of course. I would do that and more.”

Lily curved her arm around Rose’s waist as they slowly made their way out of the darkness and into the brightness of their club.

* * * *

“You’re feeling better?” Rose asked as she cupped Lily’s cheek. She hated seeing the fear in Lily’s eyes as they had made their way back home and as she undressed her and put her into her bed. Only when she gave her brandy to drink, did the color return to Lily’s face and her body relaxed under her embrace.

Lily nodded and circled a finger around Rose’s shoulder. “Now that I’m here with you, yes.” She rubbed the side of her foot over Rose’s calf. “I think I’ve had enough drama to last me a lifetime.”

“In that, I agree.” Rose sat up. Staring down at Lily closely, her hands came around and cupped Lily’s breasts. Lily placed her hands on top of hers, giving them a light squeeze.

“I understand if you aren’t in the mood after what happened—”

Lily linked their fingers together and stretched out her arms. She scrutinized her chest and snorted. “That woman said I had sagging tits.” She sniffed. “Apparently she’s crazy because my breasts don’t sag. They’re my best attribute.”

“Oh, Lily.” Rose laughed and gave Lily a hard kiss. Lily smiled against her mouth.

Rose brought their combined hands up to her mouth and kissed them. “I’m sorry you’ve been thrown in the middle of my problems with Margaret Anne. I never thought she would react that way. When she held a gun on you, my heart stopped.” She blinked her eyes as they grew damp. “If you had been hurt...”

“Shh.” Lily lifted up on her elbows as she rested her forehead against Rose’s. “Nothing happened. We’re alive and well and have so much to look forward to.” She squeezed Rose’s hands. “We both have been through so much over the years from war to losing loved ones to not knowing what tomorrow would bring. You and I have survived through it all. And no one, not bitter ex-husbands or deranged ex-lovers can take that away from us. We’re meant to be together.”

“Us against the world.” Rose placed her cheek on Lily’s chest where she felt the pounding of her heart.

“Damn them all to hell and back if they try and keep us apart,” Lily said with conviction. Rose lifted up her face and her lips met Lily’s.

“Make love to me,” Rose sighed, straddling Lily as she swiped the back of her hands across her face and down her chest where she plucked her nipples.

Lily bowed her back and groaned, her fingers digging into Rose’s ass cheeks as she rocked back and forth. “Always and only with you.”

Rose reached down in between Lily’s legs and slid her fingers around against her pussy lips. Lily moaned and dropped her hand over Rose’s, where both their fingers made her dampen with desire.

The early morning sun came up through the open window, the light casting shadows across the bed as Rose brought Lily to climax. Lily soon returned the favor. And when Rose fell across Lily in an exhausted heap, she smiled in contentment.

“Tomorrow is a new day for us,” Rose said, rubbing her cheek against Lily’s.

“All my tomorrows are yours,” Lily replied back and reversed positions until she was lying over her with her hand cupping her breast.

“Damn straight,” Rose said through a yawn and when Lily began to giggle, Rose joined in until the both quieted down and fell into a deep slumber with not only their bodies entwined around one another, but their hearts as well.

Epilogue

Lily had never been a fan of the waterfront mainly because of the smell of rotting fish and the unwashed men who shouted out words that would cause a lady to faint. And especially on a day like this, where the smells were even more potent due to the blustery wind from the remains of a storm from the night before. But she was on a mission and wouldn’t be deferred.

She sat outside Beau’s office, waiting for his assistant to announce her. When the bookish looking man invited her in, she gave him one of her most charming smiles and went into the room.

Beau stood in front of the window and turned around when she entered. She came over to view the scene before him.

“The water looks so clear and blue from up here,” Lily said, giving Beau her hand. He brushed his mouth across her knuckles, keeping her hand captive for longer than necessary.

In the past, that simple action from him would have made her heart beat speed up and her chest constrict in yearning. Now, no longer.

“What do I owe the honor of your company? Must be something important for you to come down here.”

Lily wrapped both hands around her parasol and turned her attention back on the sea where the small waves reeled back and forth. “Rose and I are going to visit her sister in New Orleans.”

“Oh really? How long will you be gone? Who’s going to watch over Rose’s Delights and your new club?”

Lily held back from smiling over the query in Beau’s voice. “For a month. We have people we trust to run things while we’re away. Rose wants me to meet her daughter.”

Beau tugged on his chin. “You know about Georgette?”

“Yes. I know about her daughter and your past with Rose.” Lily placed her hand on Beau’s arm. “I know you’ve been a good friend to Rose for all these years and for that I thank you.”

“You should thank me. If we never met, you wouldn’t be with Rose now.”

“Oh you!” Lily swatted Beau playfully, and as she moved her hand away, Beau grabbed hold of it.

“Lily, I wish things could have been different between us. We’ve been through so much together. I’ll never forget the times we shared.”

“And I as well.” Lily lifted up and kissed his cheek.

Beau released her and she backed away around the desk. When Beau combed back his hair, she knew something else was on his mind.

“What’s bothering you?” she asked.

“You’re too insightful for your own good.” Beau came around the desk. “I’m glad you came to me. I have interesting news as well. I may not be here when you get back. An old associate of mine wants me to partner up with him at his shipping company up North. I’m going to take him up on his offer.”

“What about your company here?” Lily inquired.

“I have more than enough skilled people to manage things here. I’ll be back to visit.” Beau gave her a sneaky smile. “I have to check in on you and Rose to make sure you’re not causing too many problems.”

“We probably will. Charleston would be a very dull place without Rose Ware and Lily Dunne being outrageous together.” Lily shrugged and Beau let out a deep laugh.

“Right you are,” Beau said as he quieted down.

Lily glanced up at the clock on the wall. “Rose is waiting for me.”

Beau walked over to the door and opened it. “Have a safe journey.”

“You as well. And when you come back, you’re more than welcome to visit us.” Lily offered.

Beau held out his hand and Lily took it. They both stared at one another until a bullhorn went off.

With one last smile and a goodbye, Lily left. As she walked down the stairs and out on the dock, she glanced up at the window. Beau didn’t look down at her, but stared off in the distance.

Lily’s walk didn’t take long and when she strolled in, she spotted Rose sitting at a table near a window. The fluttering in her stomach grew as Rose lift her cup up to her mouth, taking a sip. She swallowed, overcome with emotion for the woman who wiped her lips gracefully with her napkin. She longed to feel Rose’s lips against her own, but would have to wait until they were alone.

When Rose saw her, her entire face lit up and she waved. Lily almost skipped over to her, but held back as she went over to her lover. Finally when she sat down next to her, she exhaled away all her pent up emotions. Rose took her hand under the table.

“Did it go well?” Rose asked as she poured Lily a cup of coffee.

“Better than expected.” Lily didn’t expand, opting to hold off on announcing Beau’s news at a later date.

“It will be nice to get out of the city. I can’t wait to show you off in New Orleans,” Rose said and bussed her nose against Lily’s cheek.

Lily preened under Rose’s attention. “I’ve never been to New Orleans. It should be quite the adventure.”

“It most certainly will.” Rose smiled and rubbed her thumb over Lily’s knuckles.

“Most likely an adventure of a lifetime, seeing as scandal follows me wherever I go,” Lily stated and sipped her coffee.

“Darlin’, I expect nothing less,” Rose replied, and with a quick glance around where no one seemed to pay them any attention, gave Lily a delighted kiss.

The End

More Books by KT Grant:

The Princess’s Bride by KT Grant

“This author truly writes the best f/f romance that I have ever encountered.”

--Happily Ever After Reviews (4.5 “teacups”)

Daisy de Fleurre, an exiled princess from a faraway land, longs for true love. She is engaged to a man who wants to offer her the world- but Daisy still longs for a woman she has never forgotten...

But when the dastardly lady pirate C.W. Dread kidnaps the princess-to-be, Daisy has much to lose- and a secret to discover. Buy it now!

“...the author did a wonderful job...a delightfully naughty read.”

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--Two Lips Reviews (5 “kisses”)

Martin, the former first mate of an infamous pirate captain, is mourning the loss of his young lover, lost to another man.

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The Dark Desires of the Druids 1: Murder and Magick by Isabel Roman

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About the Author

KT Grant is a self-proclaimed eccentric redhead who not only loves to read a wide variety of romances, but also loves writing it. Under her alter-ego, she is a well known book reviewer and blogger who doesn’t shy away from voicing her opinion. A proud native of New Jersey, KT is multi-published and known for writing “out of the box” romances. KT has been quoted in such publications as the Romance Writers Associations’ Romance Writers Report and Night Owl Reviews. She has also been mentioned in the Guardian.UK, Publisher’s Weekly’s Beyond the Book and at Bookseller.com. You can visit her at http://ktgrant.com/ and at her personal blog at http://kbgbabbles.blogspot.com/

Copyright Information

A Ravenous Romance® Original Publication

www.ravenousromance.com

Copyright © 2011 by KT Grant

Ravenous Romance®

100 Cummings Center

Suite 123A

Beverly, MA 01915

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher, except by reviewers who may quote brief excerpts in connection with a review.

ISBN-13: 978-1-60777-459-4

This book is a work of fiction, and any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

Table of Contents

Content

Dedication:

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

Epilogue

More Books by KT Grant:

More Hot Historical Reads:

About the Author

Copyright Information