Claimed (The Women of Wintercrest #3) (3 page)

Lucas had been abroad for the past two years expanding his business interests.  Edward was extremely p
leased to learn that the man had recently returned to his own ancestral home, Hunter’s Ridge, and was finally ready to settle down and marry.  Edward and Lucas both shared the same proclivities and Lucas had been the first name to pop into Edward’s head when he began to consider Lucille’s future.  Lucas wrote to inform Edward that he would be in town soon, which suited Edward well.  He knew his friend would have fully approved of the session that Edward had just conducted.  Lucas was a man who also believed in firm discipline and that red bottoms were a necessary lesson for the females in his life.  Having being the eldest in a large family, he had never hesitated to discipline any of his female siblings as well as the women he had courted.  Edward found himself looking forward to the man’s visit and was anxious to see his reaction to Lucille.  Edward set the letter aside and picked up the next. 

He was quite surprised to read its contents.  The sender was not a name that had even crossed Edward’s mind.  He tapped the edge of the envelope against his chin as he considered the man’s words.  It seemed that his little ward had made quite the impression.  Edward knew Lucille had been initially frightened upon meeting this formidable man.  Edward shook his head but was still smiling.  Whoever would have guessed that Pastor Reed, the leader of his community’s church, was writing to inform Edward of his interest in calling upon Lucille.  Edward set the letter
aside and picked up another.

The final envelope did not contain a letter but held a formal invitation to the opening ball of the season.  Lord and Lady Eddington were hosting the event
, which told Edward many things.  The couple had met Lucille during her celebratory dinner upon her successful graduation.  They held a great deal of respect in society, both in that considered “normal” as well as the more selective one in which couples shared the lifestyle that Edward followed.   The couple had been wed many years, serving as role models for how this particular lifestyle could be fulfilling for both partners.  While Lady Eddington was allowed to dress according to her age and station whenever she left the privacy of her husband’s estate, Edward knew that within their home, and often among their group of acquaintances, she was George’s own special little girl, often wearing dresses comparable to the ones Louisa wore daily.  Attending the party would be a wonderful lesson for both his wife and his ward.  He would, of course, accept the invitation and knew his wife and ward would both be excited about the prospect of attending their first party. 

Edward sat back in his chair and rolled the heavy crystal glass between his hands to warm t
he brandy before taking the final sips.  He was very pleased with what he had read.  He was also thinking of the letter he had written to Charles Lloyds.  He had instantly known that the professor was interested in Lucille as a possible wife, instead of simply as his former student.  Edward still retained several doubts about Charles’ ability or even desire to tend to Lucy in the way she needed, but despite his doubts, Edward had to admit he was growing to admire and respect Charles and was willing to give him a chance.  It would all depend upon the next few weeks and how Charles reacted to Edward’s suggestions.  Edward rose from his desk and extinguished the lamp.  He had several things to attend in the coming weeks.  He would speak to Anna in the morning so that she could properly prepare the house for Lucas’ upcoming visit.  Edward was looking forward to seeing his friend and still felt the man was the most likely candidate to become Lucy’s husband.  Edward felt that Lucy was far more likely to consider Lloyds as a possible husband simply because she at least knew something of the man and his character.  Charles had been nothing but supportive and kind while tutoring Lucille.  Edward knew that his ward was most likely under the impression that her sweet Professor was incapable of dealing with naughty young girls, as he had never had a cause or the right to punish Lucy.  Edward grinned, knowing that despite his ward’s innocence, he himself had witnessed Charles’ reaction to the discipline Lucy had received upon failing her practice exams.  Edward knew that whatever the final outcome, the next few weeks would be educational and telling for everyone.   

As Edward entered his bedchamber
, his thoughts left Lucille and her possible suitors. He saw his own wife sleeping peacefully, her hair spread across the white linen bedcovering.  Edward soon slid into bed beside her, pulling her to lie upon her back as he gently lifted her nightgown to bunch above her breasts.  He saw her nipples pucker immediately in the cool evening air.  Louisa slowly came awake as she felt her legs being pushed apart and her husband’s lips descending upon her nipple, his tongue quickly laving it. 

“Papa,” she sighed and then moaned as his teeth began to nibble on her sensitive skin.  Edward loved the sound of her sleepy moan and felt his cock stiffen as he positioned himself at her entrance.

“Yes, my love,” he whispered as he moved to her other breast and took that nipple between his teeth.  Louisa arched her back and moaned again, her hands beginning to pull against the restraints she always wore when in her husband’s bed. Edward slid into her easily; she had moistened the moment he lifted her gown.  He rode her slow and easy, his mouth moving from breast to breast as he suckled and nibbled on her swollen nipples.  Louisa felt her sex stretch, completely full of her husband. His mouth upon her breasts was causing her desire to explode to consume her every thought. She was soon begging for permission to take her pleasure.  Edward released her nipple only long enough to grant her that permission.

“Yes, little lady, you may spend when you
wish,” he said, and then watched as she arched her back, soon moaning and gasping, her head twisting from side to side as her climax claimed her.  Edward was soon thrusting hard and fast into her and the minute she began to spend again, he joined her, shooting his seed deep inside her womb.  He moved to kiss her and heard her whisper her thanks for being allowed her pleasure.

“I adore feeling you spend when I am buried so deeply within you,” Edward said
, loving the way her face flushed at his words.   

“I love you, Papa,” she said as he bent to kiss her again. 

“I love you as well, Louisa,” Edward said, before settling her against him, her small sweet bottom pressed into his groin.  Louisa sighed and was soon deeply asleep, not aware her gown remained twisted above her breasts, her bare bottom nestled against her husband.  She simply knew she was loved and that was enough. 

Edward looked up from his seat in the library when Henri appeared.  Louisa looked up as well from where she was sitting on her Papa’s lap.  Lucy was totally involved in the book she was currently reading and didn’t move until Henri spoke.

“Sir, Mr. Lloyds is here,” Henri announced. Lucy’s head raised and her eyes darted towards the doorway.  She didn’t see her former professor but realized her heart had started to beat just a bit faster.  Edward smiled and gently removed Louisa from his lap.

“Thank you, Henri, please show him to my study,” Edward said.  Henri nodded and left the room.  Louisa looked to her sister and saw her flush.  Louisa smiled knowing that Lucy was anxious to learn what Professor Lloyds might want.  “You girls be good,” Edward said as he guided his wife to sit in the chair he had just vacated.

“Yes, Sir,” the twins chorused as one voice.  Edward smiled, never tiring of sharing his home with the two young women.  He bent to press a kiss to the top of Louisa’s head and then walked to his study.  He opened the door and stepped inside where he saw Charles standing before the French doors that led to the garden.  Charles turned at the sound of Edward’s entrance.

“Good afternoon, Lord Wintercrest,” Charles said holding out his hand.  Edward shook it and motioned for Charles to take a seat.

“Good day, Charles,” Edward said and chose to seat himself in an adjacent armchair instead of distancing himself from his guest by sitting behind his large desk.  “I trust you received my letter?”

“Yes, thank you, Sir,” Charles said politely.  Edward smiled and leaned a bit forward.

“Come, Charles, I believe you and I are beyond such formal titles.  Please, call me Edward,” Edward said, wanting the younger man to feel relaxed in his presence.  Charles nodded his acceptance.

“Thank you, Edward,” Charles began.  “I have come to offer my response to your suggestion.  I’ve given it quite a bit of thought and find I agree with you.  I find no other course available if I am to learn what is needed to feel capable of accepting the position of Headmaster.”  Edward sat back in his chair and rested his chin on the tips of his fingers.  He was pleased at the man’s words and appreciated the effort Charles was making to beco
me prepared to take up the much-desired position of Headmaster at the girls’ former school.

“Wonderful, Charles,” Edward said.  “I am very pleased to hear your decision.  I assure you that you will find no better tutor than Miss Summers.  She has run her
school for years with great success.  You will learn all you need, and I believe, find yourself learning a great deal more as well.  I just ask you enter into your schooling with an open mind.  Granted, these girls are schooled in far more than reading, writing, or mathematics.  They must be, in order to fulfill the positions for which they are being prepared.” 

Charles swallowed hard and nodded.  He had received Edward’s detailed letter explaining exactly what sort of school Miss Summers led.  Edward suggested it as the best possible place for Charles to learn quickly how to administer the strict corporal discipline necessary for a Headmaster.  Edward had been impressed with Charles’ earlier confession that he was totally uneducated in discipline of any kind.  Having seen his reaction when Lucille had been strapped in his presence, Edward was pleased at the man’s honesty.

“Thank you, Edward,” Charles said.  “I promise to do my very best.  Believe me, the irony of your offering me a tutor is not lost on me.”  Edward chuckled as he remembered employing this young man to tutor his ward.

“Think nothing of it, Charles.  We all must start somewhere.  While it is surprising to discover your ignorance in the matter of discipline, I assure you that it is a course of study that will capture your interest.  As you know, the school board, as well as myself, have no interest in placing another Thorne into the position.
  You have shown that you have empathy for your students and a great deal of patience.  Your tutoring of Lucille impressed us greatly.  It is the least we can do to allow you to have the tools necessary to feel you can make your final decision.  If, after your studies, you agree that you feel capable of taking responsibility for our young women of society, I assure you the job will be yours,” Edward said and watched the man smile.  Edward knew the offer had come as a complete surprise and knew Charles considered this great fortune as a possible path to be able to offer Lucille his name in marriage.  Edward allowed him a moment.

“Charles, I have agreed that you might call upon Lucille,” Edward said and the man’s attention was captured fully.  “However, I feel I must inform you that you are not the only man who has sought such permission.”  Charles felt his heart lurch at the news.  He hadn’t thought of having competition for the lovely young woman.  Edward saw his reaction and said, “Now, man, don’t fret.  I believe you do have a
n advantage, don’t you think?  After all, Lucille already knows you and has come to trust in you as well.”  Charles relaxed and smiled.  It was true, the young woman had spent several hours with him and he had even witnessed her in a truly shameful state.  The fact that she had remained mostly comfortable in his presence despite that fact gave him feelings of hope.

“Thank you, Edward,” Charles said and decided to press his case just a bit.  “Perhaps I shall be able to further my head start.  With your permission, perhaps you would allow me to escort Miss Furniss this evening?  A nice walk to the park would offer her a lovely outing…perhaps even an ice-cream to enjoy?”  Edward smiled at the man’s eagerness but couldn’t fault him for it. 

“Since it has been a few days since Lucille has been in need of punishment, I feel she has earned a treat.  I’m sure she would love an outing,” Edward said, and then stood.  Charles followed suit.

Charles tried not to show his response to Edward’s mention of punishment
, though the image of Lucille’s bottom did flash through his head.  “Thank you, Edward.  I…I must say I am quite taken with your ward.  Any advantage available to me, I confess I won’t hesitate to claim,” Charles said as he followed Edward from the study.  Edward chuckled, but didn’t reply.  He knew his friend, Lucas, would soon have an even greater advantage.  With his impending arrival, he would have immediate access to Lucille, as he would spend time under the same roof.  He didn’t feel it necessary to inform Charles of any competition other than allowing him to know he was not the only man interested in luring Lucille away from Wintercrest Manor.

Lucy was indeed thrilled when, after dinner, Edward nodded to Charles
who then spoke.

“Miss Furniss,” Charles said as he helped Lucy from her chair.  “Would you do me the honor of allowing me to escort you to the park?  I believe there is an ice-cream stand that we can visit as well.  Do you like ice-cream?”  Lucy smiled
, but then remembered that she was not in control of her own life.  She looked up to see Edward looking at her.

“Sir, might I accept?” she asked politely.  Edward was very proud of her for seeking his permission before even answering Charles’ request.

“Yes, little one, if you’d like.  You’ve been a very good girl lately and haven’t given me cause to punish you for several days,” Edward said, enjoying the flush that quickly colored Lucy’s face.

“Th…thank you, Sir,” she stammered and then turned to Charles.  “I’d like to walk with you, Professor Lloyds,” she said.  She saw his smile
, and hers brightened.  “And, yes, Sir, I really like ice-cream.”  Charles chuckled.

“Then, my dear girl, you shall have a double scoop,” Charles said.  Lucy accepted her cloak from Molly and saw the girl smiling at her.  Lucy allowed Charles to drape the material around her shoulders and then turned to say good-bye to her sister.  When she saw Louisa’s
wistful face, Lucy’s pleasure dropped.  She realized that her sister very rarely left the confines of her home. 

“May Louisa go with us, Professor Lloyds?” Lucy asked.  Charles looked down at the small hand she had placed on his arm.  He felt a moment of regret but smiled at her upturned face.

“Of course she may, if that is what you wish and Edward agrees,” Charles said and turned to Edward.  “Perhaps you’d both like to walk with us?”  Edward was once more impressed with the young man.  He had also seen his wife’s disappointment and had been proud of her for not whining or showing her disappointment other than the sadness obvious if one looked closely into her eyes. 

“I’m sure Louisa would love that, Charles,” Edward said and could sense his wife holding her breath in anticipation.  “We will join you for a little while
, though I’m afraid we must return soon, as it will be time for Louisa to go to bed.”  Louisa flushed, but didn’t protest, her small body almost quivering with delight.  “Molly, please bring Louisa’s cape as well,” Edward said.  When the maid reappeared, Edward draped it across his wife’s shoulder and bent to whisper in her ear.

“You’ve been a very good girl as well, little lady,” he said
, and saw her smile.

“Thank you, Papa,” she said
, not even hesitating to address her husband as he preferred.  If Charles wondered at the address, he wisely said nothing.  He tucked Lucy’s hand in the crook of his arm and soon the four were walking down the sidewalk towards the city park.  Louisa watched her sister as she listened attentively to whatever Charles was saying.  She turned to her husband.

“This is wonderful, Papa, thank you,” she said again.  Edward squeezed her hand and smiled.

“You are welcome.  I know your life can be difficult at times, but want you to understand that I appreciate it when my little lady works hard to be a good girl.  Lucille has been very well behaved since her last paddling.  I believe she will also work hard on being a proper young woman and deserves a bit of fun as a reward,” Edward said. 

Louisa
smiled and enjoyed the evening.  The air was brisk, but her cloak assured she wouldn’t chill too much.  Her husband kept her safely beside him, her hand never allowed to slip from his arm.  When they reached the ice-cream stand, Edward bought her a double-dip of strawberry ice cream and watched as her tiny tongue darted out to lick up the creamy treat before withdrawing back between her full lips.  His cock instantly grew hard in his pants and he saw her face flush when her eyes met his.

“We shall finish our treat on our way home, Charles,” Edward said.  “I trust you to have Lucille home within the hour.”  Lucy was very surprised to find Edward allowing her to remain in the park
, but said nothing, as she had no desire to question his unexpected leniency.

“Certainly, Edward,” Charles agreed.  “Thank you for a lovely evening.  Good night, Lady Wintercrest,” he said as he gave her a small bow.  Louisa smiled and thanked him as well.  She tucked her hand into her husband’s arm as he led her back the way they had come.  The cone was soon consumed and as they reentered their home, Edward bent to wipe her mouth with his handkerchief.

“Go with Mrs. Bremmer, little lady,” he said.  She smiled and ran her fingertips over his cheek.

“Thank you, Papa,” she whispered and went up onto her tiptoes to brush her lips across his.  They were still chilled from the
ice cream and Edward felt his cock twitch again.  He knew his own little one would soon be suckling and enjoying more cream the moment he joined her in their bed.  He knew that she realized it as well, from the look of desire shining in her eyes.

Lucy and Charles settled on a nearby bench to enjoy their cones.  Lucy was quiet now that her sister and guardian had left them.  She found she had no idea what to say.  Though she had grown comfortable in Charles’ presence, that had been when their roles were properly defined.  Now that she had left the school, she felt uneasy.  Charles realized her distress.

“Relax, Miss Furniss,” he said quietly.  “There are no quizzes or exams for you to take.  I simply wish to get to know you better as the young woman you are, not as my former student.  I find I am very attracted to you.”  He saw her flush and continued, “I have sought permission to call upon you, Lucille, and simply ask if you can possibly see me as a suitor?”  Lucy’s heart pounded as his words defined their new roles.  She found herself remembering how Edward had told her she would most likely have suitors and understood that Charles was her first.  She smiled and lifted her eyes to his.  She saw the sincerity in his gaze and felt her stomach flutter.  She remembered that he had seen parts of her that never should have been revealed to any suitor.  Her ice cream was forgotten as the memory returned full-force.  Attempting to push the thought from her mind, she looked about the park.  Suddenly, she became aware that she was dressed far differently than other young women being allowed an evening’s outing.  Her eyes glanced around, seeing several girls giggling and flirting with their escorts.  Every single one of them was wearing a fashionable dress, their hair pinned up and faces colored with face-paint to enhance their features.  Lucy dropped her eyes and saw her own dress.  Today she was wearing one of a soft mauve, though it still had the white collar and band about her hips.  She wore the simple slip-on shoes over her plain black stockings.  Her hair had been brushed and plaited that morning by Mrs. Bremmer and was draped down her back.  She suddenly felt foolish and wished she had never left the house.

Charles became aware of her increasing di
stress.  “Lucille?  Are you feeling well?  Do you feel ill?” he asked, his concern apparent.  She wished she could lie, but she simply shook her head and tried to fight the threatening tears.  Charles saw her cone dripping down her hand and reached out to take it from her.  “Please, Miss Furniss, have I said something to offend you?  I assure you I have no desire to frighten you.  Please tell me what can I do?”  Lucy knew her actions were causing him distress and hated herself for it.  He had never ever been anything but incredibly kind to her.