Tempter by Nancy A. Collins

Author:Nancy A. Collins
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Premier Digital Publishing

Chapter Fifteen

Jerry set aside the last volume in Lucien Napier’s journals and massaged his temples. The only thing left in the file box was a diary bound in watermarked silk the color of smoke, its pages tinged yellow with age and as fragile as moth wings. The entries were made in a distinctly feminine hand. Relying on the same system he had used with the lawyer’s journals, he let the diary fall open where it would.

***

March 7, 1839:

Papa has returned from visiting Mr. Legendre and is in high spirits. I am glad to see it. He has been worried so about finances of late.

***

March 9, 1839:

Papa has just made the most astonishing announcement over dinner. He says I am to be married to Mr. Legendre’s son. At first I was most upset, as Donatien (for that is his name) is considerably younger than myself. I was outraged that Papa would undertake something so important without consulting me, as if I was one of his prize brood mares. When I told him I refused, Papa became quite angry and started shouting that I should be lucky to make such a catch, especially at my age. He said he could not afford to keep a spinster daughter no more than he could a lame filly.

***

April 19, 1839:

Papa took me to Seraphine over the weekend to meet my future father-in-law, Mr. Placide. He impressed me as a true gentleman, and nothing at all like that dreadful father of his. Mr. Placide introduced me to his wife, Miz Janelle, a refined and charming lady. She reminds me so very much of my dear, departed Mama. I did my best to make a good impression. Before we left, Mr. Legendre took me aside and told me in strictest confidence that I’m the kind of influence that he and his wife want in their son’s life. Miz Janelle gave me a small cameo portrait of Donatien. I cannot believe this is the face of my husband to be! If this likeness is only half-true, then my betrothed is handsome beyond my wildest dreams. He has dark hair, eyes as blue as a robin’s egg, and a passionate, expressive mouth. Why, he’s the very image of Lord Byron!

***

November 6, 1839:

Today my groom arrives in New Orleans. I can barely keep from shaking as I pen these words. At last, I am to meet my Donatien face to face! Mr. Placide sent his boy, Auguste, to greet the ship. Papa and I are to attend a private dinner in Donatien’s honor this evening. I can hardly wait! I keep Donatien’s picture with me at all times, and hardly an hour goes by that I do not look at it.

(Later) Papa told me the party has been postponed. It seems that there was some sort of mix-up. Auguste couldn’t find Donatien. When I pressed Papa for details he conveniently remembered he’d forgotten to make sure the stable boy saw to Sulky’s saddle rash. I hope Donatien isn’t sick. I’m sure the Good Lord is looking after him.

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