A Gentleman's Bargain Read online

  “But that's a lie."

  Garrett frowned. “I appreciate your dislike of falsehoods, but they're necessary. Now, eat and listen."

  “Are you going to order me around all the time?” she asked, returning his frown with one of her own. “I'm not sure I like it."

  Garrett ignored her. “We met on the train from St. Louis and fell in love.” Claire chewed on her bottom lip for a moment, then nodded. She wasn't in any position to argue about the terms of her new job. She needed the money too desperately to let her conscience beat her to death over the way she was going to earn it. Garrett was a gentleman, and as such, he wouldn't make demands that weren't proper and acceptable.

  “When I introduce you to my grandmother, she's going to ask about your family. You can tell her the truth, as long as it doesn't compromise the impression I want to give her. Understand?"

  “My parents are dead and my brother is...” Claire hesitated. “Your brother is employed by the railroad,” Garrett supplied. “His job takes him away from home a great deal and you're not sure when he's returning to the city. Of course, you've written him about our engagement."

  “You make it sound so simple."

  “It is simple,” he told her. “All you have to do is be charming and act besotted."

  “Besotted?"

  Garrett made a frustrated sound. “You have to appear to be madly in love with me, Miss Aldrich. Anything short of that and my grandmother will know that I've got something up my sleeve. The whole point of this exercise is to brighten her spirits. That isn't going to happen if you keep frowning at me."

  Claire softened her expression. “I'm not an actress, Mr. Monroe."

  “Garrett,” he corrected her. “And I don't want an actress. I want an amiable young lady with acceptable social graces and a pretty face. You have both."

  She dropped her eyes for a moment, hoping that the flush of heat she felt at his words wasn't showing on her face. His next remark said she hadn't succeeded in hiding her feelings.

  “Don't be coy,” Garrett said, sounding irritated. “You have a lovely face and I doubt that I'm the first man to tell you so.” He hesitated, wondering how many suitors Claire had left behind in Cincinnati. Realizing that his mind was straying, Garrett reached for some grapes and continued what was becoming a very difficult conversation. He'd never had to come out and literally ask a woman to pretend she was attracted to him. “Let's get back to the business at hand, shall we? For starters, it only makes sense that I would find you attractive. Following that is the obvious conclusion that the same thing applies to you."

  Only, I don't have to pretend, Claire thought. I am attracted to you. Far too much for me to be comfortable about the corner I'm about to paint myself into.

  Deciding she'd be better off to at least act like she was pretending, Claire raised her head and met Garrett's gaze. “I'm not totally ignorant of what happens when two people fall in love, Mr. Monroe. And I'm not a child in a classroom. Please stop sounding like a teacher."

  The question of her experience was on the tip of Garrett's tongue, but he squelched the urge to ask it. He'd bet the gold nameplate setting on his desk at the bank that Claire Aldrich had never been kissed. At least not the way she should be kissed. Long and deep and passionately. Kissed until she moaned and went limp in a man's arms. Kissed until her pretty pink mouth was swollen and her hazel eyes blurred with desire.

  “Excuse my tone,” he said, softening his voice until it resembled the tone he'd used the previous night when he'd had her pressed up against the hotel door. “I'm a businessman, but this isn't my usual business. In fact, this whole situation is just as awkward for me as it is for you."

  Claire knew what he was talking about, although most young ladies weren't supposed to understand the real facts of life. Hiring a woman to pretend affection for him was new. The stories in the newspaper came rushing to mind as Claire realized any woman in the city would be more than willing to be seen with Garrett Monroe. She supposed it bruised his male ego to have to instruct a young lady in the female arts, but then she hadn't been the one to plot against his grandmother's tender feelings. A touch of anger replaced her embarrassment and she tilted her chin slightly higher.

  “It would seem to me that your performance is just as important as mine,” Claire said candidly. “Tell me, Mr. Monroe, can you pretend affection for one woman when you no doubt have a dozen young ladies flirting with you at any given opportunity. I'm sure you'll be bored by week's end."

  Garrett's smile was smug and very masculine. “I see my reputation precedes me."

  “I may be a stranger to the city, but I can read,” she told him. “Your name isn't new to the social page of the newspapers."

  “Unfortunately not,” he admitted. His smile returned as he noticed her fidgeting with her napkin. He popped a plump grape into his mouth, letting his eyes roam over her as he chewed it. After a short pause that was poignant with possibilities, he finished his reply. “Don't worry about me becoming bored, Claire. In fact, I think you and I will get along very well."

  The arrogance in his tone pricked Claire's temper. “And just how do you expect us to get along, Mr. Monroe? Will I be given a daily script from which to read, or shall I consult with you as to the frequency of my smiles? I certainly wouldn't want to appear overly affective or unduly complacent."

  He laughed out loud. At that moment, he wanted to cover Claire's sassy mouth with his own and kiss her senseless. “I suspect we'll have to work out some sort of secret signals,” he suggested, clearly amused by her indignation. In fact, he was delighted to find out that she had a sense of humor. “My name is Garrett,” he repeated. “I insist you use it from this moment on."

  Claire was about to send another fiery retort his way when Garrett surprised her by standing up and holding out his hand.

  “I think you're right. We need to get better acquainted. Shall we take a walk? The park isn't crowded this time of day, and I intend to introduce you to my grandmother this weekend. If she hears a bit of gossip between now and then, no harm will be done."

  He'd taken off his riding gloves and laid them next to the picnic blanket. Claire looked at his bronzed hand like Eve must have looked at the forbidden apple before plucking it off the tree.

  “I'm afraid holding my hand is also a requirement of your employment,” Garrett said teasingly. “Come along, I don't bite."

  Claire wasn't so sure. In fact, the longer she was with Garrett Monroe, the less confident she became about what she was getting into. Engaged couples did walk hand in hand. They also talked to each other in soft whispers and exchanged affectionate smiles. It boiled down to the simple fact that people in love liked being close to one another.

  That realization was the cause of Claire's hesitation. She already liked being close to Garrett. The sound of his voice, when he wasn't being dictatorial, was pleasing and his smile had the strangest effect on her. It made her heart pound and goose bumps sprout on her skin.

  When Garrett's strong hand closed around hers, Claire felt her knees go weak for a scant second. Reminding herself that she was looking for her brother, not a suitor, she allowed Garrett to help her up from the blanket. He led her toward a small pond not far from the trees and she smiled when she realized that the tiny reservoir was crowded with fat goldfish swimming around in circles. Nothing was said for several minutes and she became conscious of the tension between them. They were strangers who had agreed to play at being in love.

  She looked up and searched his face. His eyes masked his feelings and she suspected that he'd learned the art of keeping his thoughts secret because of his profession. Bankers were known for their standoffish attitudes. Of course, there was nothing standoffish in the way Garrett was looking at her. His eyes roamed over her face, then lower, taking in her entire body. Claire felt herself warming under his predatory stare and she pulled her hand away.

  It was time to say what she had to say before she lost her nerve completely.

  Garr
ett saw the subtle change in her expression. “What is it?"

  She glanced down at the fishpond. “I can't promise you that I can fool your grandmother,” she said honestly. “I've never met the lady, but if she's as nimble of mind as you say she is, then I fear your plan will have a disastrous ending. I don't want to cause anyone harm."

  “I don't think you could harm anyone if you tried,” Garrett replied candidly. “You have a gentle nature and a soft heart."

  His remark brought Claire's head up and around. “You only met me yesterday."

  “I'm a banker,” he replied, smiling. “But I don't always depend on numbers to make my decisions. I've been known to give loans on nothing more than a gut feeling. I'll trust my instincts where you're concerned."

  There was more Claire had to say and she dreaded the words. She'd swallowed her pride when she'd accepted Garrett's offer, and it was still caught in her throat. “You said that you intended to introduce me to your grandmother this weekend."

  Garrett gave her a slight nod. He could sense that the words she was struggling to find weren't easy ones. His protective instincts came into play again and he reached for her arm, turning her to face him. “Our arrangement isn't a conventional one, Claire. It's going to demand honesty between us, even though we will be deceiving others. If we can't talk to each other in private, how are we going to carry off a successful charade in public?"

  “You mentioned a salary,” she said in a shaky voice. “I'm afraid I require an advance. My rent is due and..."

  His fingertips, placed over her lips, stopped Claire from further humiliation. The gesture was soft and it carried no threat, but it was a little scary to realize how the slightest touch of Garrett's hand could affect her.

  “We can talk about your salary over dinner,” he said, realizing he was looking forward to it already. He also realized that Claire's financial situation was worse than he'd first suspected. Another reason for him to beat Donald Aldrich into the ground when they finally came face-to-face. “As for your rent, it won't be necessary. I've arranged for you to have a suite of rooms at the hotel. Andy will take you there after you've packed your belongings."

  Claire wanted to argue, but Garrett's finger was still resting against her mouth. The soft pressure made her think of a kiss.

  “I've also arranged for a dressmaker to call on you tomorrow morning. You'll need a complete wardrobe, including numerous gowns for evening and a fur wrap. The nights can get quite chilly here. I'm afraid our engagement is going to spawn a flock of invitations. Everyone will expect to see you at all the right social functions."

  His hand dropped away and Claire felt a strange sense of disappointment when his touch vanished. Drawing herself up to her full height of five feet four inches, she frowned. “Is all that really necessary?"

  “I'm afraid so,” he remarked. “You aren't that shy are you? Most young ladies would be thrilled at the prospect of being the belle of the ball."

  “I'm not most ladies,” Claire said, wondering just how she explained who and what she was to a stranger. Of course, they wouldn't be strangers for long. She was going to move into Garrett's mansion on top of the Hill. It was part of the plan and she knew she couldn't talk him out of it. But she still had her pride. She'd agreed to play the role of Garrett's fiancée. She hadn't agreed to be a kept woman. “You can deduct the clothing from whatever you were going to pay me."

  Garrett knew she was battling her pride. He had no desire to dampen her spirits, so he said nothing. Claire was the key to his scheme and he had to keep her moderately content in order for things to go smoothly. “We can work out the details of your compensation later. For now, I have an appointment and you have some packing to do."

  They strolled back to the blanket. Claire didn't protest his hand this time. In fact she liked the warm, secure feeling it gave her. Until today, she'd been all alone in the city. Now she had one of its most prominent citizens escorting her around the park and she wouldn't have to fall asleep wondering how she was going to pay Mrs. Kruger the rent.

  While Claire repacked the basket, Garrett mounted his horse and rode to where Andy was waiting with the carriage. The two men exchanged some words and Garrett rode back to where she was standing. “I'll see you at dinner,” he said, tipping his hat. “If you need anything ask for Andy or Libby Marlow, she's the maid who served our dinner last night. Do you remember her?"

  “Yes."

  “Good,” he replied. “Now, stop frowning. I'll take care of everything."

  The words were a balm to Claire's worried mind. For the last three weeks she'd been struggling with the unknown. Where was Donald? Was he in some sort of trouble? What if she couldn't find a job? What if Mrs. Kruger tossed her out on her ear? The what ifs had kept her from sleeping and she'd paced her rented room until her feet hurt. She blinked back a tear, unable to control the relief that suddenly overtook her. She liked being independent but knowing that her temporary burdens had been shifted to the banker's shoulders was a small miracle.

  Garrett saw the gleam of moisture in her eyes and dismounted. He didn't think about his actions. He simply did what came naturally and pulled her into the circle of his arms. “Don't cry,” he said in a soothing whisper. “And don't worry. I'll find your brother."

  Garrett's words shocked him as much as they reassured Claire. He wasn't the type of man who reacted to a woman's tears, but the soft shudder of Claire's body touched him in more ways than one.

  * * * *

  Claire acted just as unconsciously as she put her hand, palm down, on his chest and tried not to let three weeks’ worth of tears dampen the front of his jacket. She should protest the improper familiarity of being held in Garrett's arms, but she couldn't. At the moment, it felt wonderful. She could smell the soap he'd used to bathe with that morning. His arms felt strong and secure around her and she wanted to sink into that strength until all her doubts disappeared.

  Garrett was too much of a man, and not enough of a gentleman, to ignore the way Claire fit so perfectly against him. Her hair, a thick mass of honey brown curls, teased his chin and he could feel the feminine contours of her body in spite of all the clothes she was wearing. His hands ached to tighten around her narrow waist and bring her even closer, but this wasn't the time or the place. She needed reassurance, not seduction.

  Several moments passed and Claire realized that they were in the middle of a park. Anyone could see them. She pulled away, taking a step backward as Garrett's arms relaxed and gradually released her. Pulling a linen hankie out of her pocket, she dabbed at her eyes, more embarrassed now than she'd been the previous night when he'd cornered her between his hard male body and the hotel door. The man had the power to make her forget everything she'd ever been taught about being a lady.

  Garrett smiled at the blush that covered Claire's cheeks. He couldn't resist the urge to touch her again. His hand reached out and he tilted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. “I'll see you this evening."

  Claire gave him a weak smile. Her emotions were getting out of control and she wished he'd remember his appointment and leave so she could get back her composure. It was impossible as long as he was touching her.

  “Andy will wait while you pack your things,” Garrett told her. “Take a nap when you get to the hotel. I don't want you falling asleep while I recite my accomplishments in life. Grams will expect you to know something about me."

  Being reminded that she was being hired to play a role brought reality crashing down on Claire's head. How could she forget something so important in the space of a few minutes?

  “I'm sure I won't be bored, sir. After all, your name is legendary in this city."

  “You mean my money is legendary,” Garrett replied stiffly. His hand dropped away. Once he was in the saddle again and looking devilishly handsome atop the spirited stallion, he smiled down at her. “Until this evening, Miss Aldrich."

  He tapped his riding crop against the horse's flank and galloped away, leaving Claire to wonde
r if she hadn't just jumped out of the proverbial frying pan and into the fire.

  Chapter Five

  The present arrived shortly after Claire closed the door of her hotel room and let out a sigh of relief. She'd just removed her hat and placed it on the vanity table when Libby tapped on the door. Claire opened it, hoping to find the hotel maid armed with a tray of tea. Instead of tea, Libby was carrying a small box wrapped in gold foil and tied with a black velvet ribbon.

  “Mr. Monroe had this delivered,” Libby said, stepping into the room. “He said to tell you that he'll meet you in the lobby at eight."

  Claire accepted the box, then watched as Libby began milling about the luxuriously decorated suite, rearranging the flowers in a vase and adjusting the curtains so just the right amount of light drifted through the Irish lace panels covering the windows. The suite was spacious and decorated in shades of royal blue and ivory. Large pocket doors opened, revealing a bedroom that was fit for a queen. The bed was covered with a white canopy. A comfortable silk damask chair, upholstered in deep purple, sat beside a marble-topped Italianate table. Claire had only gotten a peek at the bathroom, but what she had seen was enough to make her hope for a long steamy bath in the claw-footed ceramic tub.

  She sat down on the blue-and-white-striped settee and stared at the elegantly wrapped box. If Garrett was meeting her in the lobby, she could assume that they would be dining in the main restaurant of the hotel. That meant the curtain was going up on her performance. Claire wondered if he was testing her at the same time she wondered just how much Libby knew about her relationship with the banker.

  The maid had gone into the bedroom and Claire could hear her unpacking the small trunk Andy had deposited at the foot of the bed. Putting Garrett's present on the table in front of the settee, Claire walked into the bedroom.