The only surviving son of a poor American farmer, Leander Mayfield is shocked to learn that he is in fact the new Earl of Dearborne. Barely recovered from one of the many illnesses that have plagued him all his life, he sets sail for England and a new life.<br><br>Tired and bored with all the wealth and finery that constantly surrounds him, Julien Sutcliffe, the Earl of Blackstone, is constantly on the lookout for something to lift his ennui. Then he meets the young American Earl, whose naiveté he finds refreshing and new.<br><br>Drawn to each other, it actually begins to seem as though they might be able to enjoy a happy life in each other’s company, but something -- or someone -- is determined to separate them permanently.

The Desire for Dearborne

“There you are.” Leander glanced in Creighton’s direction. “I was beginning to think you were mistaken, sir.”


Julien grinned, wondering if Leander had begun to suspect Creighton’s true purpose. “Creighton.”


“Blackstone.” Creighton cleared his throat. “Well, I’ll leave you now,” he said, making a hasty exit.


Julien’s temper had begun to cool from the moment he’d found them and now that he was alone with Leander in a secluded corner, his mood improved considerably. “I’m glad you were able to attend.”


“I said I would,” Leander replied, frowning slightly. “I’d never met Lord Creighton before. I didn’t know you were acquainted with him.”


Leander’s eyes widened. “Oh. Is that why you had him give me the message?”


Chapter 62