Free Sweet Torture (Fated for Love) by Ella J. Quince Page A

corresponding frequently, and Lord Caverly was earnest in his pursuit of Lydia. The news was like a cold bucket of water dumped over her. She had quite frankly, forgotten about Lord Caverly and his pursuit, but it went on without her, encouraged by her mother.
    Her heart felt heavy in her chest. Her affair with Devon would soon be at an end , if things went as her mother planned. Lydia would be engaged before the seasons end and by summer, she would be married. A strange panic overcame her. There was a peculiar buzzing in her ears and she felt odd. Her hands and face began to feel cold and clammy as she brought her hand to her brow and saw that it was shaking. Lady Ellsley and Olivia stared at her with wide concerned eyes.
    Olivia reached over and took her hand. “Your hand is like ice , Lydia.” She rubbed it frantically. “Is it bad news from your mother?”
    “C hild, you are looking quite pale. Maggie, fetch the smelling salts!” Lady Ellsley bid the maid and came to kneel before Lydia. She put her hand to her brow in a very motherly fashion and Lydia almost smiled.
    “It ’s all right I just… assumed the worst, I guess, but actually the news is good. My aunt is on the mend, and my mother will be returning home. I think I will head to my room, and rest for a bit, if that is permissible.”
    “ Certainly, dear, if you feel able. Olivia, help her to her room.”
    Olivia took her elbow as she stood , and Lydia followed her direction. The letter felt rough and heavy in her hand, as if its contents were far more sinister than a mere detailing of events and happenstance. They walked quietly to her room with Olivia shooting her concerned glances but saying nothing. When they reached the door, Lydia stopped and turned to her. “Stay with me, I need to talk to you.”
    Olivia nodded and they entered her room. They both climbed onto the bed , and arranged themselves comfortably across from each other. Lydia handed her the letter, and Olivia read it quietly.
    “I see.” She looked up at Lydia. “That was quite a reaction you had downstairs. I take it marriage with Lord Caverly is not something you want?”
    Lydia scowled at her. “Clearly, it isn’t. Would you want to marry a man old enough to be your father?”
    “At the garden party you seemed resigned to it. What has changed?”
    “I’m not sure. I just… the idea of it… I don’t think I could bear it now.” She said tensely. She was feeling better physically, but the sense of loss was still acute. When did she change? She’d known what her fate would be, but after experiencing what she had with Devon… could she give it up? She pictured Devon in her mind, the way his hands felt on her skin, the way she stroked the little v of skin and dusting of hair at his collar when she removed his cravat, and the way he smiled down at her when she re-tied it for him after they drove each other mad with pleasure. Her cheeks felt warmer already.
    “Well , your color is coming back, at least,” Olivia stated. “It’s not really all that bad, is it? You wanted a husband who would not betray you, or cause you unpleasantness in any way. I’ve never seen you have interest in anyone else… or perhaps there is someone else? It wouldn’t surprise me if you had a secret lover.” Olivia giggled.
    Lydia’s mouth popped open in shock. “Livie how could you —.” She stopped, for indeed Lydia did have a secret lover. “That is absurd.” She feigned annoyance and looked down to hide her eyes lest Olivia see how right she had been.
    “I think you would do well as a spy , Lydia. You never show any emotion other than what you want to show. You’re very controlled.”
    “And cold , some would say,” Lydia said morosely.
    “Only those who don’t know you think that way. Would you rather wear your heart on your sleeve , like me? I’m considered quite the ninny at times, and foolishly romantic.” Olivia smiled proudly.
    “There is nothing wrong with that , although I