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

“The guest list is the first thing, of course, but you could begin preparing the house.” Lady Carysfort paused, frowning slightly. “I can’t recall the last time there was a ball here at Esmond House. It’s been some years—five years at the very least. We should inspect the ballroom to discover if any work needs to be done.”


“We’ll have plenty of time to see to it,” Daisy assured her. “Ki—Dearborne won’t want to have a houseful of people until he feels Leander is strong enough.”


“I declare, Leander,” Lady Carysfort had been given leave to call Leander by name, as had her husband, on their first visit to Leander’s sickroom. “Your brother is trying to make you into as much of a hermit as Julien.” The moment the name left her lips, Lady Carysfort clasped her gloved hand over her mouth.


Chapter 94