The Sweetest Secret Read online

  The Sweetest Secret

  Book Four in the “Sons of Worthington” series

  Regency-set Romance

  By: Marie Higgins

  The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

  The Sweetest Secret

  Copyright © 2014 by Marie Higgins

  Cover Design by Sheri McGathy

  Edition License Notes

  This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

  For more information about author: http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com

  Other stories from Marie Higgins

  “Amazon Sunset” – Victorian Action Adventure Romance - http://amzn.com/B00JST2I0O

  “Love Lost in Time” – Victorian Time-Travel / Suspense - http://amzn.com/B00F9F7QKI

  “Waiting for You” – Paranormal / Time-travel Romance - http://amzn.com/B00EQQMACU

  “Becoming a Lady” – Regency Romance - http://amzn.com/B00BPJAGMC

  “Dreaming of You” – Romantic Comedy - http://amzn.com/B00A6G5JO0

  “In the Arms of Danger” – Romantic Suspense - http://amzn.com/B0087V3R0Y

  “Crazy For You” – Romantic Comedy - http://amzn.com/B00AZRMPOW

  “The Spanish Outlaw” – American Historical Romance – http://amzn.com/B00B40YQYG

  Christian Historical Series

  “A Walk In Heaven” – (book 1) - http://amzn.com/B0067F68FS

  “Touching Heaven” – (book 2) - http://amzn.com/B009DRV0MS

  “Reach For Heaven” (book 3) - http://amzn.com/B00H5WJV3I

  Regency Romance Series

  “The Sweetest Kiss” – (book 1) - http://amzn.com/B0066HBZBE

  “The Sweetest Touch” – (book 2) - http://amzn.com/B007QH286Y

  “The Sweetest Love” – (book 3) - http://amzn.com/B00DSADZEC

  “The Sweetest Secret” –

  Victorian Romance Series

  “Love Me Always” – (book 1) - http://amzn.com/B007ZJC2DC

  “Charmed By Knight” – (book 2) - http://amzn.com/B007ZV5Y7Q

  “True Love’s Deception” – (book 3) - http://amzn.com/B0082R8OEW

  “Belong To Me” – (book 4) - http://amzn.com/B0084VC37A

  “Love Comes Blindly” – (book 5) - http://amzn.com/B0086K791O

  Colonial Romance Series

  “Take My Heart” – (book 1) - http://amzn.com/B005OU7VFS

  “Falling in Love Again” – (book 2) - http://amzn.com/B005YF5PBA

  “Wonderland by Night” – (book 3) - http://amzn.com/B00B9670IE

  Dedication

  I want to dedicate this book to the women who helped me critique this story – Melissa Mayer Blue, Mary Martinez, Lily George, Gina Danna, Veronica Mesa, and Sharon Simmons. I would also love to thank my wattpad.com followers for their help pointing out the mistakes in my story. Thanks for being so supportive!

  Tabitha Paget has a secret that society should never discover. She especially doesn’t want one certain man to know because she fears it might bind them closer. Their stations in life are too far apart, and she doesn’t want her heart shattered as her life has been.

  Dominic Lawrence, Marquis of Hawthorne, is keeping a secret to help his clergyman cousin trap a thief. Nobody can know of Dominic’s disguise when he switches places with his cousin. Especially Tabitha. He’s wronged her and he’ll do anything to repair the damage…even pretend he’s someone he’s not.

  Chapter One

  North Devon, England, 1824

  Today started out like any other day in Dominic Lawrence’s life since coming to North Devon five months ago, except that once he’d awakened and dressed, he was no longer himself—in every aspect of the word. For the next few weeks, he would not be Lord Hawthorne. Instead, he’d play his cousin’s role as clergyman.

  He stroked the month’s growth of facial hair on his chin and around his mouth. “By Jove, I do believe I can fool people into believing I am you, my good man,” Dominic told his cousin who was also in the room. As Nic peered at his reflection in the mirror, he realized how different he looked. Startlingly, so. Sighing, he shook his head and scratched his chin. “However, I do have reservations about this.”

  “What’s wrong with the beard?” Frederick Woodland asked as he moved to stand behind Nic, glancing in the mirror. “I started to grow mine these last couple of weeks, so that when we switched identities, you would look like me.”

  “This I know, cousin, but you have always been clean shaven.”

  Frederick chuckled and peered closer in the mirror at his own reflection. “Indeed I have, but we needed this so you could take over my role. By now, my parishioners believe I’ve been inflicted with some kind of skin malady that makes it impossible to shave.” Turning his head from side to side, he studied his profile. “And I must say I was inspired to create such a story. God has indeed assisted us in our plan to find the thief in our midst. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without His help.” Frederick’s gaze met Nic’s. “And yours, of course.”

  Nic chuckled. Ever since the two cousins were young boys, they have looked more like brothers. Family members even remarked on how much the cousins resembled each other. While growing up, Nic and Frederick used to play ruses on their families by switching places. Of course, it was a momentary trickery and the family had realized quickly. Frederick was tall, broad shouldered, and with his dark hair and oval shaped face—even with the five year difference in ages—they still looked alike.

  Nic tore his attention from his cousin, focusing on himself in the mirror. Now he saw something that the disguise would never hide. Nic had been told countless times—usually by women—that his eyes twinkled when he laughed. To be sure, there was a definite gleam in his eyes. Even his self-assured smile looked like the Marquis of Hawthorne and not the clergyman.

  Five months ago, Nic had come to visit his cousin in his new area. Nic had never been to North Devon, and couldn’t wait to see this part of the country. About a month ago the church robberies started happening. Small items had been stolen at first then gradually the items stolen were larger and more expensive. This was when Frederick came up with the plan for the cousins to switch roles. His reasoning was that while Nic was playing the clergyman’s part, Frederick could sneak out at night and spy on people, hoping…praying to find the true thief. Frederick reasoned that he needed to sneak around at night because he knew the town and people better than Nic, which in turn would help him discover who wasn’t being honest. Frederick needed Nic to play the clergyman role and go about his daily routine without making him look suspicious. There was no way Frederick could be up most of the night and then carry on with his life during the day without looking tired. People would soon wonder what the man of God was doing, and having a curious community was not a good thing.

  Back when Frederick had suggested this plan, it had sounded plausible. But now… Nic worried they wouldn’t be able to make it work.

  “I just pray that we can find this thief soon. I fear I won’t be able to handle this bush on my face.” Nic scrubbed his chin, realizing that although the hair was soft against his palms, it would become bothersome in due time.

  “We may be five years apart, Hawthorne,” Frederick said, patting his slightly rounder belly, “but as long as you powder your hair to make it look as if you’re
aging gracefully, I think you shall make my perfect double.”

  Inwardly, Nic grimaced. What had he been thinking when he volunteered to help his cousin? It had sounded so much better when they’d first discussed the disguise, but now looking at himself, he wasn’t quite certain he wanted everyone to see him as a slightly older version of himself. Nevertheless, he had promised to help in trapping the person responsible for stealing funds from the church and making it look like Frederick was to blame.

  Thank goodness they were far enough away from the people Nic usually associated with, or else he would have never been able to play the clergyman part. Inwardly, he chuckled. I, a man of God? He hoped lightning wouldn’t strike him for impersonating someone so holy when his life was far from it.

  A thought struck him and had his gut twisting. Frederick had met with many parishioners in private to give them counsel. How could Nic accomplish this if he wasn’t ordained to be a clergyman? Perhaps the best way would be to play up to the skin rash condition. If they realized he had a rash, they might not want to get too close. Yes, that’s what he’d do.

  Frederick moved away from the full-length mirror and to the chair, picking up a jacket that had been draped over the back. “Now, let’s complete your clergy attire so you can go out into the community and present yourself. It has been a few weeks since my friends have seen me out of the house. I’m certain they will be delighted that I have recovered from my sickness.”

  Frederick carried the jacket to him and assisted him. Nic continued to look at himself in the mirror, noticing how awkward his cousin’s clothes fit. Surely, the townspeople would notice. Although Frederick was broad through the shoulders like Nic, the other man was definitely wider through the middle. The clothes practically hung on his frame. At least now their story about Frederick being sick for a couple of weeks would be believable.

  “And don’t forget,” Frederick added, “this evening is Mrs. Burls’ eightieth birthday party, and you must make an appearance. You recall who she is, don’t you?”

  He turned away from the mirror and met his cousin’s stare. “Of course I know Mrs. Burls. She’s the oldest woman in town.” He shook his head. “I’ve been here a good four months already, so I do know most of your friends.”

  “Good, good.” Frederick grinned and moved to the window. He carefully pulled back the curtains and peered out. “It’s a fine day, is it not? Such perfect weather for a walk.” He swung his head and looked back at Nic. “I almost envy you now. I shall have to resign myself to staying in the house and only leaving at night.”

  Nic shrugged. “This was your plan. Are you thinking of backing out?”

  “No, I won’t back out. The thief must be caught, and this is the only way.” Sighing heavily, he frowned. “I haven’t lived in this area for a year yet, and already people are starting to believe I took the items from the church. It breaks my heart when even the local constable doesn’t believe in my innocence. I must build the trust back with the community quickly.” He motioned his hands toward the door. “So go out, greet the people, and make me proud. I wish you good luck. I shall be praying that you turn out a splendid performance.”

  “Oh, trust me, I’ll try my hardest to make them believe I’m you.” Nic smiled wide. “One might even think that I playacted for a living.”

  “Well, we certainly did as boys.”

  Nic nodded. “That we did.”

  After placing Frederick’s hat on his head, he grabbed the walking stick resting by the door, and left the house. At first the sunlight made him squint. Since he’d been in the house with his cousin, out of the public eye for a couple of weeks, it was rather difficult at first to get used to the bright sun.

  Indeed, the day was perfect for walking, even though the wind from the ocean was a little crisper than he’d wanted. He now wished he had a lovely lady on his arm as he strolled down the street. North Devon was so beautiful. The land was green, and the flowers and trees budded as they welcomed in spring.

  At a certain point in town, he could climb the hill and gaze over the bluish-green waters. The scene always made him feel calm and grateful to be experiencing such beauty. Dare he admit that being here was more relaxing than anywhere he’d been before?

  He tore his gaze away from God’s lovely creations and was content to look upon another of God’s creations—the friendly people of the village. As Lord Hawthorne, he’d met most of Frederick’s friends and even dared to call them his friends, as well. Both he and his cousin had let the people believe Nic had left for home a few weeks ago.

  The first couple he greeted were the newly wed, Mr. and Mrs. Lambert. Nic had watched his cousin marry these two not more than three months ago. They still looked very happy together. Mrs. Lambert hooked her hand around her husband’s arm and gazed lovingly into his face while he talked.

  Nic studied them for a moment, thinking that his good friends, the Worthington brothers, also gazed upon their wives this way. For just a moment, loneliness crept in Nic’s heart and he wondered if he would ever find that special woman. As quickly as it came, the emotion disappeared and he chuckled. What was he thinking? He wasn’t ready to find that special woman. Not for several more years.

  “Mr. Woodland. Good morning,” Mrs. Lambert called out to him. She raised her hand and smiled.

  The new bride was a lovely woman, and immediately, Nic wanted to make her smile. “Greetings,” Nic said, quickening his step until he reached them. He must remember he was the clergyman, not a rogue. No charming the women! Instead, he should think more holy. “What a pleasure to see you both this fine morning.”

  “Indeed, it’s a very lovely day, Mr. Woodland,” Mrs. Lambert said. “How happy I am to see you out. I trust you’re feeling better?”

  “Yes, I do feel better.” He stroked is palm over his furry chin. “However, this beard is my only irritation now. I will be relieved when the tenderness in my face disappears and I’m able to shave once again.”

  “I do understand your frustration.” Mr. Lambert nodded. “Two years ago I also had some kind of rash and I couldn’t shave for a whole week. I don’t know if I could have gone as long as you have, though.”

  Nic shrugged. “It is quite uncomfortable. But at least I’m out of that stuffy house and able to see your happy faces. Tell me, how are you faring since we last talked?”

  As the young couple shared with him their happy times as husband and wife, Nic laughed at their humor and forced a smile until his face hurt. It wasn’t that he didn’t care about their experiences, but he just couldn’t relate. At least Frederick had been married once before. His wife had died in childbirth six years ago. For some reason, Frederick hadn’t wanted to remarry.

  Never had Nic thought of settling down, which was why his relationships were never very long. He enjoyed his freedom too much. Most women adored him, and of course he loved to make them feel special until it was time to move on. He was always charming, and ending their affair made the women realize he just wasn’t the marrying kind of man. Not often did they hate him afterwards.

  His thoughts halted as the face of an angel swept through his memory. Tabitha Paget—the maid he thought was a killer about six months ago. The maid with the amazing blue eyes, heart shaped face, and lips that were remarkably exciting and so unforgettable.

  “Is that not right, Mr. Woodland?” Mrs. Lambert asked.

  Inwardly, Nic kicked himself for not paying better attention to the Lamberts. He couldn’t even recall what they had been saying. He chuckled and shook his head. “Ah, Mrs. Lambert, of course it is right, since it came from you.”

  The young lady nodded and looked at her husband, giving him a grin of victory. “Did I not tell you? Mr. Woodland is a very intelligent man.”

  Mr. Lambert held up his hands in surrender. “I’m not arguing with a clergyman.”

  Nic laughed and clapped his hand on the other man’s thin shoulder. “And might I suggest not arguing with your wife, either.” He glanced at Mrs. Lambert and wink
ed. Her cheeks flared the color of rose petals. The shade clashed greatly with her bright orange-red hair. He tipped his hat and bowed. “I must be on my way. I pray you both will have a pleasant day.”

  “We will,” Mr. Lambert said. “Will we be seeing you later tonight at Mrs. Burls’ birthday celebration?”

  “Indeed you will.” Waving at them, Nic then continued his walk.

  Another minute later, his name was being called by a woman across the street. The widow, Mrs. Smythe and her maiden sister, Miss Talbot, were the gossipmongers of the parish. If there was a story to be told, these ladies were the first to spread the news. Apparently, they knew everything…or they wanted to let everyone think they did.

  Perhaps, if Nic became really close with those two, he might discover if one of them knows who the real thief was. Although he enjoyed charming women, he never had to work his wiles on women of their age. He supposed there was a first time for everything.

  Mrs. Smythe was a short, round, lady with a head full of brownish-gray hair, which was most of the time, coming out of the coil on the back of her head. Her sister, Miss Talbot, was also round, but she was more tall and big boned. The younger sister had stringy brown hair that had always appeared disheveled, since Nic had first met her, anyway. She also had a large nose that was difficult not to stare at while conversing with the lady.

  “Mr. Woodland,” Mrs. Smythe called again from across the street. She hustled as fast as her round little body could carry her until she stood in front of Nic. Out of breath, she smiled, holding her hand to her chest. “Oh, Mr. Woodland.It’s so refreshing to see you today. Why, I was just telling my sister, Mildred, earlier that we should drop in to see how you are faring.” Slowly, her gaze slid over Nic, and her eyes widened. “Oh, heavens. It appears you have lost some weight. I didn’t think you had been that sick.”