Chapter One

Glasgow 1833

Fannie MacRae stared at the march of vehicles parading down the length of High Street. The steady clop of horse’s hooves became a constant. From the harbor the sound of orders filtered into the other noises. If she wasn’t so sick, she wouldn’t be so angry with her sister. Nellie disappeared with her beau. Left her by herself…to find her way alone.

The River Clyde flowed to her left and the Cathedral of St. Mungo was to her right. Cold winds blew off the river. She coughed, wheezing as she tried to guzzle air from the busy street. Her throat was sore, raw. Tears filled her eyes as she battled the cold wind. She didn’t want to be here. Should have stood firm against her sister’s imploring way. Wished she was home in her nice warm bed sipping on a cup of warm mulled cider. Didn’t understand how Nellie managed to talk her into this scavenger hunt. She’d been the third wheel as her sister was paired with her new beau.

As soon as she was able to sweet talk some man out of a monogrammed handkerchief, she could go home. A damn monogramed handkerchief! How the sweet devil was she to do that, especially when she disliked speaking to strangers? Could never figure out the necessary words. A blast of cold air swept her hat from her head.

“Oh no!” Too late to stop the event, her hand flew to the top of her head to catch air. “Stop!” What utter nonsense, as if her hat could understand what she was yelling. Fannie ran after the tumbling hat as the object of her dismay danced along the sidewalk then careened into the street. She bent to retrieve the wretched thing. At the last second, she pulled back. “No!” A passing carriage ran over it, crushing the hat flat. Her arms whirled, holding her back from falling into the path of another vehicle. With her hand pressed tight against her chest, she sucked in a gasp of city scented air. “Never liked the blasted hat anyway,” Fannie muttered to no one in particular. She pressed her hands against her chest attempting to fill her lungs.

Letting out a slow breath of air, she was relieved she’d not dashed into the path of the vehicle. Thankful her spinning arms stopped her. Her hand once again hovering over her chest, she felt the pounding of her heart along with wheezing as air attempted to pass through her lungs. Without clear thought about what she was doing, Fannie walked, turning down one street then another. She didn’t know where she was headed. In a daze of pain, Fannie stopped a few people to ask if they would mind handing over their monogramed handkerchief for a good cause.

Each time a crack of laughter would follow her question then the one word “No. You have got to be joking.” One man even called her a little bitch after her inquiry. Exhausted from the evening, Fannie leaned against the brick wall of a building watching traffic on the street pass by. Closing her eyes for a moment, she listened to the rumbling of the wheels. Heard the chatter of people as they rushed to get home from a long day of work. Realizing she wasn’t certain where she was, she fought the rise of panic. With slow deep breaths in then out, repeat then repeat again, she tried to stay calm. The people she now saw were mostly men. The women strolling the street were dressed to show off their bodies. In this weather, they were scantily clad. She thought the women must be ladies of the evening. The thought brought her mind to attention.

What did she know about ladies of the evening? Nothing. Did she wish to learn about them? No. Still, she was a bit fascinated as she watched the different ladies approach various men. They would posture. Push their breasts out. Sometimes money would exchange hands then the lady would go with the gentleman.

She was shocked to watch a man pull down the bodice of a woman’s gown then fondle her. The lady pushed her bare breast forward. With his other hand the man pulled her skirt up. The woman wiggled seeming to enjoy the intimate contact. A deep flush of emotion crept up to settle on Fannie’s hot cheeks. Pressing her cold hands on her skin didn’t eliminate her heat flushed face.

This place is not somewhere I should be. No kidding, I should be somewhere safe. At home in my bed reading a good book.

Nellie would be at the house where all this started. The various couples would set out all the objects they gathered in order to figure out who won the game. Her sister would be drinking punch, chatting with her new beau.

Hah! Here I am still out in the cold. I should stop this nonsense and go home. I don’t know where I am. Just keep moving. In time, you will figure everything out. Put one foot in front of the other. You are bound to see a landmark you will recognize.

She turned in an attempt to retrace her route. Dear Lord, she was tired. Her cold wore her down. Her throat ached. With dazed eyes, the buildings along her route swayed, swirled with terrifying speed. Fannie placed her hand on the wall to steady herself. Looking up then down the street, she searched for a cab. There was a row of them down the street. They were lined up in front of a large three-story home. If she could make it there, she would be on her way home to her warm bed. All she needed to do was give the address. The driver would do the rest.

Where was her sister? Fannie couldn’t recall where the house was where she was supposed to meet Nellie and the other couples on this hunt. Was it where they began this ridiculous game? She didn’t understand the why of the game. The purpose eluded her. There didn’t seem to be any reasoning behind asking people to hand over their belongings. Told her sister several times she didn’t wish to participate in the scavenger hunt. Nellie begged. She needed a third person so she could be with the young man who captured her heart this week. Nellie never stayed with any man for long. Nellie would explain to her she was looking for another Jasper or Jason. Their eldest sister married Jasper Kenworthy, the youngest was wed to Jason, his twin. They were both madly in love with their husbands. The two middle sisters were still single. They made a pact not to settle for anything less than true love.

For a few beats of her heart, Fannie closed her eyes, hoping when she opened them the world would no longer be spinning out of control. To her dismay, upon opening her eyes, the desired results were not in play. The road seemed to undulate. The hacks carrying people were hazy. She didn’t know if she could put one foot in front of the other. The line of cabs seemed farther away than the first time she saw them.

Which way to go? She pushed away from the wall holding her up. Swayed on her feet for a second before she pulled herself together. Just take one step then another one. You can do this. Get to those cabs and you will be home in a jiffy.

Wetting her lips she looked up then down the street where she stood. Had no earthly clue as to which way to walk. She was lost, acknowledged the fact standing in this spot would never get her home. She could ask if anyone knew how to get back to the cathedral. Everyone in Glasgow would know where the church was located. She could try to walk the long blocks to the home where the hacks were lined up. Seemed going in that direction was her only rational option. Wished one of those vehicles would see her then come pick her up. Why would they? The drivers would believe she was a lady of the evening.

At the very least, she could hope one of the cabs would take her home. How did she get into this mess? What she wouldn’t give to see someone she knew.

The horrible smell caught her attention before the words. “Lookee…! Look what I found. Just standing here all pretty like waiting for the two of us to come along. What do you think? Will she do us for a wee bit of fun? Do you think she’s as pretty with all her clothes off? Would like to have a taste of her pretties. Those bubbies of hers…in my mouth…I’m salivating.” A burly looking man spoke with his friend. They stood in front of her, blocking any hope of escape.

The voice was too close. The rancid scent of year-old sweat filled the air. She caught the odor of liquor on his breath. She couldn’t seem to swallow a lungful of air. Fannie cringed against the brick wall, wishing for a way to melt into the stone. Her hands shook. She balled her fingers into fists to steady herself.

“A pretty lady…too pretty for the likes of us. Tha i cho blasta. She is so tasty,” the man mumbled then smacked his tongue around his mouth, his voice gruff with emotion. Again, he licked his lips as if he tasted her on them.

Fannie wished she understood what they were saying. No one talked that way anymore, at least not in the city.

“Tasty morsal if I do be sayin’ so meself. Tha blasta,” the other offered, touching her cheek with the back of his hand then down her neck. Quivering with fear, she pushed against the brick wall. “You be comin with us, little misee. We’ll be showin’ you feasgar math. That would be a good evening for you. For us too. A little sportin’ fun.”

“Don’t want a good evening with the likes of you,” she muttered as one of the men in front of her blocked her path. His beefy hands were placed on either side of her head while his stomach pressed against her, holding her to the wall behind her.

“We want you for the night…all night long. Not giving you a choice. You’re going to come along with us. We got a room just down the street. The bed is ready and waiting. We’ll share you. You can have both of us. I’ll do you first. Me partner can have you next. The two of us will take turns giving you pleasure.”

Fannie shook her head. She did understand a bit of Scottish Gaelic but not much. These men were raw, hard looking, too strong for her to fight. Their clothing was ragged. Both wore beards. Must be straight off the docks. In that case, she might not be too far from the river. If she found the river, she might be able to find the cathedral. “No!” Panic glued her to the wall. No, must get to that line of carriages. Those cabs are my only hope.

“Ah, tha blasta eun bheag,” the second man said as his grin widened. His hands were still on the wall on either side of her head. She felt the heat of his body pushing against her. Fannie tried to swallow the lump of dread caught in her throat.

A tasty little bird? Is that what these men thought about her? Had no idea what they meant. Knew their thoughts weren’t good for her.

Deep in her chest, Fannie’s heart thundered. Seemed she couldn’t catch a breath of air. She tried to slip beneath his arms. He caught her by her shoulders. Shook her, her head banging against the bricks.

“You dinna be sayin’ much. I do like a woman who doesn’t talk a lot. Now come along with us. We’ll be showin’ you a good time.”

“No,” her voice held a calmness she didn’t feel. Understanding the importance of this moment, she needed to get away from these two men before she became their evening’s entertainment. “No!” she reiterated as loud as her raw throat would allow her. “No…don’t want… I’m not what you believe.”

Fannie closed her eyes for a moment, thinking of ways to remove herself from these men. Nothing tangible came to mind. Then… Breathing in the tainted air surrounding these two, she steeled herself to move fast. With a quick jerk of her knee, she brought it up as hard as she could between the man’s legs. The shriek of pain coupled with the loosening of his fingers on her shoulder gave her the chance she needed. The man cursed. She lunged away. Raced down the street. Didn’t bother to look over her shoulder to see if the two men followed. Headed straight for the line of carriages in front of her.

“Bitch!” one of the men called out as he gave chase. “Stop right there! You’re going to pay for what you did to my friend.”

No, she wasn’t going to pay. She wasn’t going to stop. Getting caught by these men was not her plan. Running, she headed for the well-lit house where she could hire a cab. She ran for about five minutes. Raced around two people who were chatting in the middle of the sidewalk to plow into another man. She hit him with such force, she fell back to land on her rump. She sat, her hands at her hips keeping her upright. Breathing hard she looked into a handsome face…a too handsome face…a pretty face. His eyes were pale blue…ice blue. The smile he sent her curled her stomach. She shivered. The man was dressed in black evening attire. The white shirt beneath the frock coat heightened his prettiness. He twirled a cane then leaned on it as he looked at her, examining her from head to toe. Her stomach twisted into a knot of revulsion.

The man was…handsome, slender for his height. His blue eyes twinkled as if he just found a present. Fannie shuddered. Didn’t wish to be this man’s gift. The smirk he flashed her was wicked, his teeth white. He looked as if he wanted to devour her or feed her to the wolves. Well, the wolves were after her. At least with the men chasing her, she understood the danger. With this man she did not. What did he want with her? Whatever it was she didn’t plan to have anything to do with him. Fannie didn’t have one doubt he had something in mind. The look the man graced her with reminded her of Lord Abernathy when he stared at Maggie.

“This Caileag bheag is ours,” her first attacker said with a low growl.

The handsome man looked at her, a sly expression on his too pretty face. He pointed to the men. “What do you say, little girl? Are you theirs’ for the night? If not, you will come with me. I’ve a cab waiting. I’ll protect you. Keep you safe from these thugs.”

“No! No to both of you.” Fannie felt as if she must be jumping from the pan into the fire. There was no other recourse. She scooted back, distancing herself. Her gaze shifted from pretty face to the burly seamen. “I’m not anyone’s plaything. Not for sale. Not going with any of you.” With those words she realized what both men thought of her. They believed she was here to sell herself to them.

“You’re one against two!” The man she kneed in the groin shouted from a short distance while he shook his fist in pretty face’s direction. “You can’t stop us from having what we found first.”

“Seems this little girl packs a wallop. Besides, you lost the little girl. Didn’t you? She says she doesn’t wish to have anything to do with the likes of you,” the man told her pursuers as the man she kneed in the groin limped up to them still holding himself.

“She’s got to pay for hurting me.” He shook his fist, punctuating his words. “I will make sure she pays.”

“No, I’m not leaving her with the two of you. You lost. I won. I’ve got the little girl with me. She doesn’t wish to go with you.” He turned to her. “My name is Craig, Craig Halsey. Do you wish for me to save you from these two ruffians? Speak up. I don’t have all night.”

“Yes.” She did wish to find herself safe from these two men who wanted her for themselves. Fannie also needed to keep herself safe from Craig. She didn’t trust him. This man was smooth which made him a dangerous agent. She wasn’t a whore. They believed she was. What else could she do? Accepting this man’s help went against the grain. This man, who she didn’t know, could mean her harm. She needed to deal with one hazard at a time.

“Come along then.” Craig took her by her hand then helped her stand. “I’ll get you somewhere out of the cold. Give you something nice and warm to drink along with a nice place to sleep. You will enjoy the experience. After you’re more comfortable we can see what will happen. Got some plans for you. Something I believe you will appreciate.” He looked to the carriage as if seeking advice.

His hand held her elbow tight as if she might run. The row of carriages was still in front of her. Perhaps she should try to get away. Where would she run to? At least this man didn’t have a horrible stench around him. No, but he did smell of too much cologne, a sweet scent, cloying in the extreme. Her instincts told her she needed to flee. This man didn’t mean her well. Instincts should be heeded.

When Fannie looked in front of her, she realized why the two men allowed her to go with Craig. A carriage waited for him with a driver, along with a second man standing by the door to help them inside. His hand on her elbow, he was taking her away. She couldn’t go with Pretty Face. Where did he intend to take her? What the devil was going on here?

Mother? Anice? No, she was seeing things. Her mind was fogged over. She was sick. Hallucinating. Her mother wasn’t sitting in the vehicle. No!

Fannie dug in her heels. Pulling back, she said with as much strength as she could summon. “No! I will not get in that carriage with you.” She would fight until her power left her. Prying at his fingers, she tried to free herself.

Craig looked to her then back to the two men who accosted her. “I see. You wish to go back with these men? You would like to become their evening’s entertainment? I can tell you they won’t pay you as well as I can,” he told her, one eyebrow arching as if he knew the answer ahead of time.

So, Craig wanted her for the same thing as these two. She wasn’t a whore. Wasn’t selling her body to any man. Was her mother sitting in the carriage? Her mind was playing tricks with her. Swallowing her fear, “No, just tell me in which direction the river is then I will be on my way. There is no need for you to bother with me. I can find my way home.” By the look in his eyes, Fannie acknowledged the fact Craig wasn’t going to allow her to leave him. She needed to think of something else.

“I’ll take you to the river in the carriage. No need for you to walk.” One more time he held her elbow. Pushed her in the direction of the waiting transport. “It will be much more comfortable for you in my vehicle. We will be able to talk about your future. You are lovely. Will command top dollar I’ve no doubt.”

She was both annoyed with the man as well as terrified. Her options were limited to one. “No…” Fannie wrenched away. Surprised by her sudden move, the man lunged for her. Caught nothing but air.

“Little bitch!” He swore as he started after her.

In the split second before she jerked her arm loose, Fannie realized Craig held no good intentions toward her. If she stepped inside his carriage, she would be his for whatever purpose he decided. She didn’t know why he wanted her. Nonetheless, she felt as if his purpose was not one she would like. If that woman was her mother, she would find herself in Lord Abernathy’s bed before she could count to ten. Gasping for oxygen, Fannie ran as hard as she could. Stumbled once then a second time. Heard the pounding of Craig’s feet behind her. He had to be gaining on her. Would catch her. She pushed herself harder, demanding the last bit of strength she possessed.

The light in the house she first saw what seemed like hours ago, beckoned to her. She had to find safety there before Pretty Face could catch up to her. Fannie didn’t know what would happen at the house. Had to be better than what was going to happen to her here. Well, it couldn’t be any worse. She needed to take the chance there would be a welcoming committee who would give her the necessary aid…a nonthreatening welcome…a safe shelter away from the elements acting against her. Tearing down the street then through the gate into the backyard, she flung herself up the steps.

“Help!” Her fists pounded on the door. Craig was close behind her. The only reason he hadn’t caught her yet was because she surprised him. “Help! Please!”

“Bitch! Come back here! I’m not letting you get away from me.” Craig passed through the gate just as the door opened.

“Help me,” Fannie bent over at her waist gasping for air, almost fell into the room. “Please…please don’t let him get me. I…”

A huge man, his skin as black as midnight stood in the opening. Muscles in his arms bulged. When he stared at her, she saw a light of compassion in his dark brown eyes. “Halsey, what brings you here? Suppose it’s this little lady you’re panting after. She doesn’t look as if she wishes to become part of your stable.”

A petite, redheaded lady stood behind the huge man, a broom in her hand. Her eyes blazed blue fire while her ample bosom heaved with indignation. She stepped forward. Swung the broom down on Craig’s head. “Get the hell out of my yard and off my steps, Halsey! You’re not welcome here! Be gone! Pimping little girls who say no to you is not honest work. She looks to be too sweet for the likes of your clients.” She hit the man again then again as Craig staggered down the steps to land hindside down on the gravel walkway.

“She’s mine!” Craig yelled, shaking his fist at the woman who defended her. “You’ll see. I’ll get her back. Just you wait. She will be mine.” He stood, dusted off his pants then walked from the yard.

During the altercation the huge man ushered her into the home. He seemed to be a gentle giant. She stood in the kitchen not knowing what to do with herself, shifting from one foot to the other. Delicious scents of food wafted around her. To Fannie’s mortification, her stomach rumbled.

“You hungry? We’ve got lots of food,” the woman asked with a charming smile lighting up her features. She was probably in her late thirties. Seemed to have a motherly streak in her.  “I can feed you then we’ll see what else I can do for you. Sit down. You can tell me why that horrible man was chasing you.” Kindness was written in her expression, in her eyes, the way she looked at her.

A monogramed handkerchief. Who would believe?

As if magically, a bowl of soup appeared in front of her. She sipped the broth letting the warmth soothe her raw throat. Found pieces of tender beef along with vegetables within to help satisfy the hunger rumbling in her stomach. She didn’t even realize she was hungry. Fannie ate until she could hold no more. Her throat still felt raw, though the warm soup soothed. She rested her hand on her throat. The proprietress of this house was patient. While she ate no one spoke.

The woman sat down across from her. “Now, I’m Hannah. In case you didn’t realize, this house is a brothel. You don’t look like a woman who would be seeking a job here. Halsey, the man who was chasing you, is a pimp. So, what can I do for you besides keep you from his filthy hands?”

Fannie had a few ideas about what a pimp was. She wasn’t certain she could ask Hannah. Made no difference. Her throat was now so scratchy she couldn’t speak except in a painful whimper. She tried to tell Hannah she was lost. The words came out in a croak. If she could speak, Hannah might put her on one of those carriages outside her home.

“You need a doctor, I see.” The woman strode to the hall. “Angus, send for Saint. The lady needs some doctoring. Seems she can’t speak a word without sounding like a frog. I’ll give her a good dose of laudanum so she can rest. Sometimes on a Friday night, Saint is busy until the wee hours of dawn. He might not return my summons right away. We need to put her in a bed where she can rest.”

The big man nodded. “Aye…I’ll send Jacko for Saint. He’ll make good speed. I’ll help you get the little sparrow to a room. We’ve an empty one at the end of the hall last door on the right. Will the room do? Too bad she’s not in the business. This one is very pretty. No wonder Halsey was after her. She’d make him a mint. What do you suppose she was doing in our neck of the city.”

“Thank you, you are right about this girl. We could use someone like this one. She’s as pretty as a peach. Would guess all the gents would want her,” Hannah murmured then turned her attention back to her. “Come with me.” She held out her hand. “Angus and I are going to put you to bed. Perhaps in the morning after seeing the doctor, you’ll be able to tell me who you are. You dinna have a thing to fear. I’ll take care of you. Can send you home as soon as the doc gives you a clean bill of health. As soon as you can tell us where you live.”

“Here is the laudanum,” Angus appeared with a glass of water. “She needs to drink the entire glass.”

Fannie didn’t understand why she trusted this woman. She did though. She drank the glass of water. The panic she’d been feeling ebbed as the woman was taking care of her. Angus picked her up in his arms then carried her up a long staircase to the second floor. Trusting this man, she set her head against his shoulder. Angus set her on her feet by the big bed in the room. Except for a chair by the fire and a huge armoire the only other furniture was a copper tub.

“I’ll send up a hot bath for you. Might help you relax. Your shoulders are tense. Of course, after what you’ve been through tonight, there is a good reason for you to be anxious. Suppose I only know half of what happened to you this evening. Don’t understand why you were in this part of town. You’re lucky you picked this place to seek refuge. Believe all the other establishments around here would have put you to work on your back. Ah, don’t suppose a fine born lady such as yourself kens much about working in the bedroom. Glad you’re not going to learn. Do you have a name?”

She tried to croak out her name. What she said was far from sounding like Fannie.

Waving her petite hand in the air, Hannah said, “Never you mind. Maybe in the morning we can figure out how to get you home. If you can talk, it will make the chore much easier. Speech or not, you’re in no condition to be anywhere except in a bed.”

Hannah rummaged through a large armoire. Brought out a scarlet dressing gown. “You can wear this. It’s clean. Make yourself comfortable. The bath will be here in about ten minutes. Don’t know how long until the doctor can get here.”

Nodding, Fannie tried to tell her thank you. Mouthed the words.

Hannah held up her hands to stop her. “You’re very welcome. Don’t try to speak. Doing so will only serve to make your throat hurt more. Now you just relax. I’ll put a rush on the bath. By the look in your eyes, you’re going to be asleep before the bath water heats.”

Fannie watched the madam stride from the room, her skirts swishing around her feet. Hannah seemed to be a nice lady. The sound of a hot bath sounded divine. The thought of a doctor even better than heavenly. She eyed the scarlet dressing gown thinking about disrobing. She was in a brothel. She shouldn’t take off her clothing. Didn’t seem as if anything good would come of disrobing in a whorehouse. If she was going to take that bath, she would need to be naked.

With her hands folded prayer style beneath her cheek, she laid down on the bed. Closed her eyes wishing she dared try for comfort. Squirming, she changed positions. Her skirts bunched around her hips. All her clothing felt tight and damp from the misty fog of the evening. Hannah would never allow anyone to bother her in this room. Told her she was safe. Trying not to think too hard, she slipped out of her gown and underthings to don the scarlet dressing gown. It was made of silk, soft…comfortable. She tied the belt around her waist.

She lay back down on the bed, closed her eyes waiting for either the doctor or the hot bath. She must have dozed. Her mind seemed to be a muddled mess. When she opened her eyes, a man was standing, framed in the doorway. He strode into the room. Smiled at her. He must be the doctor. His shoulders were broad. Didn’t look like any doctor she’d seen before. He was by far too handsome. Doctors were old. He was Saint. Or…was he a saint?

Beside her he sat on the bed. His golden fox eyes shimmered in the candlelight. He cleared his throat a couple of times before he spoke. With the back of his knuckles, he touched her cheek then her forehead. “Downstairs, Hannah told me you don’t talk much. I can appreciate silence. A chatterbox can be annoying.”

When Fannie nodded, she set her hand on her throat in an effort to tell him where she hurt. “C…c…ant ta…” He set his finger on her lips, shaking his head.

“Soft. You look flushed. Is it too hot in here? I can open a window. Angus must have built the fire too high.” The man set his hand on her forehead again. “Not too hot. Were you going to take a bath? I’ll wait for you. Go on. Take your bath while the water is hot. I’m not going anywhere.” He smiled, flashing even white teeth. “I’ll just watch.” He slipped off his jacket then undid his cravat, so his neckcloth hung loose down his chest.

Fannie didn’t understand what he told her. Swinging her legs over the bed, she eyed the hot bath water with eager anticipation. She could imagine the heated water closing around her. The scent of lavender rose with the steam. She liked the scent. Looking over her shoulder she saw the doctor sitting on a large chair, his long legs stretched out in front of him. He’d poured himself a glass of something golden…just like his eyes.

When she thought of a doctor, Fannie envisioned an older man with silver hair coupled with bushy eyebrows of the same tone. His eyes would crinkle with tiny age lines when he looked at her. This man’s hair held no hint of silver. He was dressed in evening wear. The cut of his black suit fit his broad shoulders to perfection. His white shirt contrasted along with the dangling cravat he untied. The cut of his britches molded to his muscular legs. She blinked several times wondering if she was imagining this man. Her heart skipped a beat then another. She must be dreaming.

“Don’t hurry on my account.” The doctor motioned toward the tub. “I’ve nowhere to go tonight. I’ll wait for you to finish. I’m certain the hot water will feel good as will I enjoy the show.”

As she turned her back on the doctor, Fannie let the dressing gown slide down her body to pool at her feet on the floor. Disrobing while the doctor looked on seemed a bit strange…different from the norm. Tonight was far from normal. Must not be real. Because of the laudanum her mind must be playing tricks on her. Once before she’d had a dose of the drug. Her imagination toyed with her mind that time also. She stepped into the steaming bath, sinking down to her neck. The water curled around her, rippling around the coldness. The tips of her breasts hardened when they bobbed out of the water to meet the cool air. She soaped a sponge with lavender scented soap.

Fannie ran the sponge along one arm then started on the other. The doctor kneeled by the tub, one finger swirling in the water. His eyes focused on hers. Anxious with him so close, she swept her mouth with her tongue then heaved in the doctor scented air. Her stomach was doing flip-flops. “Let me help with the sponge. The washing will go much faster if I give you aide. After you’re done here, we can get on with the business at hand.” A strange ache blossomed deep within, a sensation she didn’t understand.

The doctor took the sponge from her shaking hands. This didn’t seem quite right. He did wash her. Didn’t appear interested in anything except finishing the bath for her. When she watched him, he gave her an encouraging smile then nodded toward the bath towel.

“Stand up.” He held the huge bath towel for her. “This will also feel nice. It’s been warming by the fire. Hannah thinks of everything. Do you need help drying yourself?” His soft chuckle seemed strange in the light of his efficiency in washing her. She pressed her hands on his shoulders to help her stand.

First, she shook her head then nodded. She didn’t comprehend what she wanted. Her limbs felt weak. Her mind in crazy disorder. Fannie thought this might be what people talked about when they spoke of new discoveries in medicine…a personal touch. Before she could give a more definitive answer, he rubbed the towel across her shoulders then the rest of her. For a few ticks of the clock on the mantel, he cupped one breasts, ran his thumb across the hardened tip. In response to the intimate caress, she shuddered. Pressure pulsed within her then seemed to ache. He held her hand then led her to the bed.

“I’ll get you a drink. The brandy will sooth your nerves. You are shaking. Don’t be afraid. I won’t hurt you. There is no reason for you to be nervous.” He walked away from her, found a second glass, then splashed brandy into the crystal glass. Strolling toward her, he held a glass of brandy in each hand. His small grin reassured. She nodded to him thinking the drink would be nice.

No, Fannie didn’t think he would harm her in any way. Didn’t he take the Hippocratic oath? She stared at the dressing gown on the floor. The small piece of fabric seemed a mile away from her then she looked back into his golden fox eyes. She could drown in those gorgeous eyes. She lifted a hand to touch his cheek then let her fingers fall back.

He chuckled again. His smile caused her heart to weep. She’d never seen any man so beautiful. “I can’t work my magic if you’ve clothing on, even a dressing gown. You, my fine lady, need to be naked. Slip under the covers just the way you are. Drink some of the brandy. After you’ve finished the first glass, we will see what transpires.” He tossed his loosened cravat on the chair near the fireplace.

She did what he told her. He handed her the glass of brandy. With special care, Fannie sipped a small portion. The liquid warmed her aching throat along with her stomach. The potent drink also diminished her stretched nerves. When she finished, she held the glass up for more. He obliged, tossing more of the amber liquid into the crystal she held out.

After she finished the second glass, he set it aside. Touched her cheeks with the back of his hand then smoothed his hand down her neck. Lingered where her blood rushed in a thunder of fast hard beats. Good, he understood her throat was raw. Bent closer until she felt his warm breath against her lips then the sweep of his tongue. She shivered, strange new sensations coursing through her body. He caressed her mouth with his, taking tender concern. With his potent touch to her lips, she jerked, startled by the contact that was unexpected though quite nice.

“Easy now…open your mouth to let me inside. I need to feel your warmth, the heat of you,” he told her without blinking an eye.

Fannie did what he asked then said, “Ah…” understanding he would want to look at her throat. Hannah must have told him about her inability to talk. Pleased she wouldn’t need to explain what was bothering her.

The doctor cracked a chuckle as he leaned back to look at her. He held her chin with one hand. The other rested on her shoulder. His fingers were warm. He squeezed as if to encourage her. “Not so wide, sweetheart. Just enough so I’ve access to your warmth.” His lips closed over hers. The taste of brandy coupled with warm man filled her senses. Fannie wasn’t at all certain what was happening. One of his large hands skimmed down her arm then back to her shoulder. The other held her head in place while he explored her mouth with his. She felt his tongue rub against hers, testing. Yes, he was discovering how hot she was. Treated this foray with hungry exploration. She heated from the tips of her toes to the top of her head. Felt each breath of air as it entered her lungs. Pressed against his white shirt, her nipples hardened.

She felt his tongue slide over hers, once then twice. Rubbed. Increased the pressure. He repeated the process while he changed his position. She moaned as his hand once more caressed her shoulder then her arm. He stopped his exploration to speak. “Give me your tongue, sweet one. Put yours in my mouth. Need to feel you inside me.”

Understanding was beyond Fannie’s imagination. She’d never had a doctor ask such strange things. She wondered if he could tell what was wrong with her throat when their tongues clashed. In her life, she’d had few doctors. None of them asked her to… Well, they always wanted her to open her mouth then say ah. When his mouth framed hers again, she did as he asked. Felt the soft, silken texture inside his mouth along with the raw heat emanating from him. A small whimper rose from the back of her throat. The penetrating sound rippled into his mouth.

His large hand rested beneath her breast right where her heart bellowed with the frantic tempest he created. Fannie wasn’t certain that was something he was supposed to do. He must need to listen to her heart. With his hand? She closed her eyes, reveling in the feelings encompassing her. The brandy joined with the laudanum in her system to relax her to the point of no return. She was sleepy as well as disoriented. Unable to hold a clear thought in her spinning head. With each touch of his big hands, she burned from the inside out. He scorched her. Her body arched as his lips moved lower, touched upon her belly. She felt wet in the dark secret parts of her. His hands examined places she never thought a doctor would touch. His fingers slipped between her thighs, separated her. Touched upon a sensitive part of her, lingered there as her hips bucked in opposition to his fingers. She needed something she didn’t understand. Spiraling higher then even higher, she arched against his body, his touch.

Fannie cried out as her body catapulted into hundreds of different directions. He rose above her. Set his mouth upon hers again. “Just a second.” She watched as his clothes vanished, to land on the floor beside the bed. Her doctor came over her, entered inside her. She jerked with the sudden pain. He told her he wouldn’t hurt her. Moisture filled her eyes, tears slipping down her cheeks.

“A virgin whore…?” He brushed the tears away with his thumbs. “I won’t move for a few seconds. The pain will fade. After the sting of my entry vanishes, I’ll give you more of what you want. You’re new to this profession. I understand.”

How the hell did he know what he said?

With no more warning, her doctor was on top of her, deep inside her. He filled her. She tried to register the words he spoke. Attempted to make sense of something that didn’t make any sense at all. Her brain was too befuddled by the brandy coupled with the laudanum to sort through what was happening to her. Without notice she’d felt the heat of him. He was right. The pain did vanish. Within her, he began to move, slow at first, then hard and fast. His fingers touched upon her with intimacy. She spiraled with the renewed contact. Her body convulsed as he filled her, pushing into her, deeper each time. She was outside herself. Beyond her mortal body. The ripples of pleasure consumed. When she shattered, his mouth crashed against hers while he rocked her. Warmth filled her.

He was above her now, smoothing her hair away from her face. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you’d never been with a man before. All Hannah told me was that you weren’t a chatterbox. She never said anything about virgin territory. I’m pleased I was your first.” He set his forehead against hers.

Still not comprehending what happened, she nodded. Her lashes drifted closed. She fell asleep feeling the weight of his body on top of hers, blanketing her with life giving warmth. Felt the heat of the man penetrate through him into her. As Fannie drifted into oblivion, she realized she liked the way his big body fit with hers. Enjoyed the way he covered her. Wished this dream had been real.

When she woke, she slept on top of him. Her breasts pushed against his chest. Her legs sprawled across his. Entwined. Fannie didn’t understand why her doctor was still here. While she felt better, she still couldn’t speak. Her mouth was dry. She ran her hand across his chest. Stopped to feel his nipples then run her fingers through the spattering of dark hair on his chest. Curious, she followed the line of hair to his waist. She was fascinated by the differences. Wanted to feel what made him so distinctive from her. He stopped her with his large hand on top of hers.

“If you aren’t too sore, we can do this a second time. Otherwise, your questing fingers will need to stop. I can only take so much foreplay before I lose control.”

Foreplay? Sore? Lose control? Fannie questioned as she stared at him. While she wasn’t certain what he meant she did feel an ache between her legs. A sensation different from anything she’d known before. She shook her head, her long hair spilling around him, curling around his shoulders. Words still didn’t form. She didn’t wish to croak out the one word. Please.

“Good…” Her doctor filled her again. She clung to his shoulders, her nails biting into his flesh. “I find I need to feel your warmth surround me again. You are soft. So very wet. I like that…” He kissed her. Set his lips against hers. Swept his tongue inside her.

She experienced him deep inside while she felt the same amazing feelings erupt within the secret place, before this man, she never knew existed. The same as happened last night completed her. Arching her hips she brought him deeper into her. He pulled her legs around his flanks. He thrust deep. Hard. Cried out when she erupted so completely she felt certain she flew to the sun. Her nails scarred his flesh. He collapsed beside her, rolled to his side bringing her with him.

Next time she woke, she realized she needed to leave this place. Her doctor was asleep. He was beautiful. She swept a strand of hair from his eyes. Ran a fingertip along the bridge of his nose. Wished she could see his eyes, his fox eyes. She would never forget those eyes. The effects of the brandy along with the laudanum was gone. Fannie’s mind was no longer befuddled.

With sudden despair, she understood what had happened to her. What she didn’t understand was why. She didn’t intend to stick around to discover the truth. Didn’t wish to see this …doctor…ever again. She must have put her trust in a woman who was untrustworthy. This man couldn’t be a doctor. She’d just lost her virginity to a man she didn’t know and hoped she would never see in her lifetime. Fannie didn’t even know his name. Didn’t know the name of the man who took her innocence. She inhaled a deep, ragged breath of air.

Fannie had to find her way home. Couldn’t stay in this brothel a moment longer. Didn’t wish to face the consequences of last night. Rising from the bed with quiet stealth, she stared at the man who claimed her virginity. Recalled the scavenger hunt that eventually brought her here. The men who attacked her. Halsey who wanted to take her to his home or someplace. The woman she saw in the carriage who she thought might have been her mother. All this because she was looking for a monogramed handkerchief. She remembered the carriages lined up in front of this home. Maybe they were still there. She did have money. Kept a small reticule in the pocket of her coat. She could hire a hack to take her home. She would be safe soon.

Looking at the man on the bed, she groaned, a soft sound vibrating in the back of her throat. She would never see him again, thank God. Didn’t know how she would ever face this person if she did come across him. Knowing what he did to her, how he played her body, mortification would set in.

God, she didn’t even know his name. Didn’t want to recall what she’d done with her doctor. He couldn’t be a doctor. Who was he? It was true. She was no longer a virgin. What she wasn’t was a whore. What if she got pregnant from this encounter? What would she do? She would need to tell Jasper, her guardian. Dear Lord, was she just like her mother? Anice slept with countless men.

Shaking off her thoughts, the potent need to flee this place rushed into her in waves of mortification. She didn’t belong here. With fluid fast movements, Fannie dressed then grabbed the dark brown bag sitting by the door. The bag Nellie must have given her to keep the items from the scavenger hunt safe. In the next second, she was out the door, racing down the steps. To her relief there were two hacks in front of the home. She rushed forward. Gave her address to the driver then paid him. She was on her way home.

~ * ~

For Fox Taggart the evening could not have gotten any better. He started out with five thousand pounds then managed to increase the sum to fifty thousand in a few hours of gambling. He supposed a bit of luck went his way. Sitting at the table, gazing over the room, he sipped his brandy, felt the heat slither down his throat.

More than pleased with the outcome of the evening, he decided to celebrate his good fortune with a no strings attached dalliance. Thought about going to the widow he’d seen last night. Decided against that idea. Release was on his mind. Needed to ease his taut nerves. He’d been to Hannah’s before. The brothel as well as the girls were clean, even sweet. The establishment was an honest one unlike some of the others in that part of town.

After tonight, he now had enough money to make improvements on his logging adventure then buy more land. Last winter’s storms were hard on the ranch. He tried to be self-sufficient. He owned several head of cattle and would like to increase the herd. Had hens as well as a rooster. In the lakes the fishing was exceptional. Maintained a vegetable garden. Several fruit trees had been planted. The plans he made would now come to fruition. His ensuing grin reached deep into his heart. Jake Taggert, his father, had nothing to hold over his head. He could no longer induce him to remain in Scotland. Jake wanted him to play a role in his business adventures. Wanted him close. As Jake told him, Michigan Territory was too far away.

Jake encouraged him to give up on the land. Fox couldn’t. The land along with the mountains was in his blood, logging was all he ever wished to do. His logging camp would always be a part of his heart as well as his soul. He could have sold the twenty-four thousand acres spread of timber for a huge profit. He didn’t want to sell. What he wanted was to live on his land, to bring up a family on the acreage. He needed a wife along with children who would appreciate the world he loved as much as he loved the place. Clean open mountain air with none of the problems of the city. His children would be able to roam the land without fear. They would inherit the empire he planned to build.

“Well, you got what you wanted.” His father slapped him on the back, grinning. Fox felt certain his father wasn’t pleased with tonight’s events even though he smiled. “Got everything you need to hide out in Michigan for the rest of your life. No telling what you’ll find there besides hard work from sunrise to sunset. You could have sold the land then come to work for me. You’d be a rich man.”

“Got exactly what I want, Dad. No thanks to you. Don’t wish to work for you or live in the city. Want to build an empire my children can inherit.” He did love his father, the ultimate manipulator that he was. Fox respected him too. He’d earned his money from the ground up. Their problems stemmed from the fact they didn’t want the same things.

“You do understand I would have lent you the money. Told you the fact a couple of times.” His father chuckled as he patted his back again. “Though I would rather see you stay here in Glasgow instead of hightailing it back to the states. I do understand that’s what you want. What you don’t know is the truth. I do respect your decision.”

“With interest.” Fox understood what the interest would be. He’d find a woman for him to wed. By doing so, he would owe no interest on the loan. No, his father’s notion of interest was also something he had no wish in doing. He didn’t want a wife who was handpicked by his father. He was looking for love. If he couldn’t find that elusive factor by the time he was forty, he’d marry the first attractive eighteen-year-old who came his way. Forty was young enough to start a family as well as a dynasty.

“I’m a businessman,” Jake reminded him as he nodded to a passing friend. “What else would I do besides charge you interest?”

Fox also nodded to a few people as he walked through the gaming hall. He’d lived in Glasgow half his life. The other half was spent in the wilds of Michigan. He knew his preference for the land. “I won’t be home tonight. Don’t wait up for me. Plan on doing a little celebrating before I head back to my home. Once I’m back on the land, there will be work…hard work until all is as I want it to be.” He thought of the journey. The devil, he despised sailing. Hated the sea. The overland trip would be difficult but more enjoyable than rolling waves.

“Ah, seeing to your needs,” Jake said, grinning. “Wouldn’t need to pay for a whore if you had a wife. When are you going to settle down? A good girl would be just what you need. I do know of a couple of sisters. Either one would make a fine wife. They’ve been brought up well. Travel in all the right circles. Do business with their guardian.”

Fox pinched the bridge of his nose hard, reeling from his father’s interference in his life. “I’ll marry when I find a woman who will love me more than she loves herself or my father. Don’t wish to meet anyone you might pick out for me. If they were bred in Glasgow, they might not wish to live on a homestead in Michigan. Need a woman who won’t dissolve at the sight of a warrior.” He meant the words. He’d been in love before, even had a fiancée. Strange how his fiancée, the woman he believed loved him, married his father. She still flirted with him each and every time they were in the same room. Offered up her mouth for kisses as if he would oblige. God, he felt bad for his father. The woman chased everyone who wore pants.

“You should pay more attention to your bride,” Fox tossed out with growing agitation. “She might set her claws into some other man. Turn the tables…” Seeing the look on his father’s face, he let that statement die a lingering death. While he felt certain Jake loved Beryl, he didn’t believe for a beat his father’s wife loved him. Perhaps his feelings were sour grapes. The woman betrayed him with an older man. Jake was old enough to be her father. What the hell did she see in him?

“Discussion of Beryl is off limit to you, son. My wife…our relationship is between us.” His voice was ragged. Fox heard the pain in Jake’s voice. Knew he shouldn’t bring up the past. What was done couldn’t be undone. Jake understood exactly who his wife was.

Fox acknowledged the fact his casual words hurt his father. Didn’t like himself much for doing so. After what the man did, he shouldn’t give a damn about either. He raked his fingers through his hair. “You’re right. What is between the two of you is not my business.” That was all the acknowledgment he was going to give his father. “Don’t wait up.”

“I wouldn’t. Not when I’ve a wife as beautiful as Beryl waiting for me in my bed.” Jake chuckled, his voice soft.

The words made Fox flinch. Hell, he didn’t understand why. Knew he was better off without the lying, little bitch. Still, the thought hurt. A man didn’t appreciate the fact he lost his fiancée to an older man. Once Jake thought she was happy with him. Later, she told him she couldn’t bear to live in Michigan. Didn’t like the isolation. Needed what a city could provide for her. Wanted to go to balls, dance the night away. Hold dinner parties as well as flirt. Except for flirting, she could do none of those things in Michigan. There would be times during the year when the winter snow would keep them isolated in his home.

Outside, Fox hailed a cab, gave directions to Hannah’s place, then he sat back to reflect on the conversation he had with his father. After he decided there was nothing else he could have told the man who sired him, he set his mind to making lists of the improvements for his property. He let his head lean back on the seat. Listened to the sounds of the night. The carriage slowed then stopped. He drank in the scent of the chilled air. Caught the aroma of fresh cooked food. Hannah’s place was well-known for its cuisine. He wasn’t hungry for food. What he needed was a woman who would place no demands on him. Someone who wouldn’t talk his head off. A lady he could have sex with tonight then leave whenever he pleased.

Taking a few seconds for thinking, he stood in front of the three-story brothel. The lawn surrounding the building was manicured with precision, the paint fresh. During the ride some of his ardor cooled. Fox wasn’t certain this was what he wanted. Maybe his father had a point. A wife would have been nice to come home to. He didn’t have a wife nor were there any possibilities on the horizon.

“What the hell…” he muttered to himself. “I’m here. Might as well take advantage of the opportunity.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. Maybe some of the tension he felt during the long hours at the gaming table would lessen. Who was he kidding? Most if not all the tension in the back of his neck resulted in his conversation with his father. The man tried to manipulate. His ploy wasn’t going to work.

With a drawn-out sigh, he stepped up to the front door. Music blared all around him. Scantily clad ladies entertained gentlemen in the parlor. A few seconds later, he was greeted by the big bodyguard Hannah employed. “Angus,” he said as he stepped into the foyer.  “Nice to see you. I’m here for a bit of pleasure. Do you have a girl who isn’t going to talk my head off? Don’t want a chatterbox tonight. Not in the mood for conversation. Just need to…” He broke off with the rest of his thoughts. Why else would he be here if it wasn’t to relive his needs?

Angus tossed his head back then after a bark of laughter, he said, “Follow me. Got just the right gal for you. Doesn’t say much unless asked a question. Then only to be polite. Has untold secrets. Come on in. She is new here. I’ll let Hannah know who you want. She’ll send you to the right place. You’ll have a nice enjoyable evening with the little lady. She is fresh down from the highlands. Fairly new to the profession.”

“Thanks…” Fox followed the huge protector of the house to the office where Hannah worked. He stopped at the door. The lady must be in her early forties or late thirties. She was still pretty. Her smile welcomed him.

“You’re back, Fox. Missed your handsome company. Where the hell have you been all these months? Not across the ocean in that heathen place they call the United States? Ah, see the truth in your eyes. You like the wild land better than this fair city. Can’t say as I blame you. Doubt if you’ve got pimps in those mountains of yours.” Her laughter trilled around her. “What can we do for you tonight? Got lots of beautiful girls. A new lady, young, might be perfect for you.”

“Angus says you’ve got a lady who won’t talk my ear off. Don’t want a chatterbox. Will most likely stay the night. What do you say? Can you put me in the loving hands of a lady who will keep her mouth shut?” He did have his preferences. Women who spent the entire time talking were not to his liking.

“Got the perfect lass for you. Go on up the stairs, her room is the at the end of the hall, last door on the right. Just give a little knock then go inside. She will be expecting a guest so you won’t frighten or startle her. Guarantee, she will be ready for you. I won ‘t even ask for you to pay more for the silent treatment.” Hannah laughed again before sending him on his way. “Don’t be a stranger. You’re a true gentleman. We like having you here. All the ladies appreciate your talent.”

After he opened the door, Fox took in the ambiance of the room. Two candles burned on a counter flooding the area with a warm tone. If this wasn’t a whore’s bedroom, the sight might have been romantic. The whore was pretty, perched on the bed, her feet tucked beneath her. Long blond hair curled around her shoulders before falling to her waist. She wore a scarlet dressing gown that molded to all her delicious curves. Flickering shadows from the candles played along her body, giving her face a golden quality. He imagined her naked. Thought to taste her breasts, sip on each pretty pink nipple, savor until the sound of her pleasure rippled into him. He could see the imprint of her nipples on the dressing gown. With that poignant thought, he swelled against his britches. Jesus, he had sex last night with the widow. At this beat, he was primed as well as ready to plunge into secret depths. He didn’t want to explode before he could give her pleasure. He ran his hand along the back of his neck, hoping for control.

Hours later, lying in bed, he recalled the first time with her. Thought of the moment he crashed through her maidenhead. Her cry of startled pain reverberated in his head. She’d not expected pain. At least it didn’t seem to him she did. Hannah should have told him the girl was a virgin. He might have treated the moment different. Maybe Hannah didn’t know. The virgin factor might not be something a lady new to this profession would tell the madam of a brothel. Hell, he didn’t know her name. His arm lay across his face, shielding his eyes from the light of the candle.

A virgin whore.

The second time with her was better than the first. She was responsive. He didn’t imagine the raw passion she poured into her lovemaking. The way she whimpered then cried out when she reached the sweet, coveted pinnacle. Fox knew women. Understood what they liked as well as how to caress their feminine parts to make them wet as hell. He enjoyed the ride with her. What he found with her was something that might last him until he reached his home. He planned on leaving within the week. Jake wouldn’t be too pleased when he discovered his intentions. His father mentioned a dinner with the two sisters he hoped to introduce to him. Wished for him to marry one of them. Hoped for an engagement. His father could dream. The dream wasn’t going to come true.

Fox wondered where his little virgin whore got herself off to. If she’d been in the bed, he would have considered another round of early morning sex, something he enjoyed with the right woman. The lass wasn’t in the room. Supposed she could be just about anywhere in the building. He could use a hot cup of bitter coffee, American coffee, the stronger the better. Ah…he was in Scotland. They drank tea. He needed coffee to spark early morning energy. Didn’t enjoy beginning his day without the bitter brew.

The knock on the door startled him to a sitting position. The whore wouldn’t knock on her door. Who the hell was it? His sheets fell around his waist. Another knock followed the first one. What…?

He didn’t intend to answer. Whoever was outside would let him know what they wanted.

“The doctor is here. He’s ready to see…” There was a long pause then she continued. “Says he is sorry for taking so long to get here. Seems he had a busy night,” Hannah called out. “You decent?” She stepped inside the room. Eyes widening with surprise, her gaze stuck on him.

“What the hell?” Fox muttered deep under his breath. A quick search of the room found his pants on the floor near the tub. “A doctor.” Who needs a doctor? I don’t. You must have the wrong room.”

Hannah’s face paled when she recognized him. He still didn’t understand. Fox saw her swallow a lump in her throat. She cleared her throat before beginning. “The more prevalent question is what are you doing in this room? I sent you to the…” she stopped talking for a few seconds. Passed the palms of her hands along her gown. “This could be bad, very bad. Always do get my right and left mixed up. This was not the room I sent you to. Couldn’t be. This was the little lady’s room. She was sick.”

“You sent me to the last door on the right. Tell me what’s going on.” Fox didn’t enjoy feeling as if the world was not turning the right direction. He was angry about the intrusion, angrier about the fact the lady went missing. What did she need a damn doctor for? “Are you telling me I was not with the girl I requested. You know, the non-chatterbox? The whore who wasn’t going to talk my ear off.”

Clearing her throat again, Hannah began, her bosom heaving with each drawn breath, “Did you have sex with her?”

“The lady is a whore. Of course we had sex. Sex is what I paid for. It’s what I came here to have. What? Did you think I would pay for sex then not take the woman?” Fox didn’t think he was going to appreciate what was coming next. The look on the madam’s face was not the expression of a pleased woman.

“The lady might be a whore. That is true. I doubt it. She was sick. I gave her this room because she couldn’t talk. Needed a safe place to rest. In her condition, I couldn’t send her back on the street. Called for Saint but he wasn’t able to make it here until now. Where is she? What did you do with her?”

“How would I know? The bed was empty when I woke.” Fox pushed the sheets off, intending to dress. Wasn’t surprised to see the blood on the sheet. Neither was Hannah. The madam made a face at him. Looked from the bloody sheet to his member. He twisted with the unwelcome urge to cover himself. He didn’t like the way this inquisition was proceeding.

“The lady was no whore. She was a virgin…” Hannah turned to head for the door before spinning back to face him. “You had no right…” Once more she broke off as if she understood she was wrong to berate him for something that was not of his making.

“Christ, madam,” he pushed his hands through his hair. “What did you expect? I’m not a saint,” Fox looked to the doctor. “This is a whorehouse, a very nice one. Nonetheless, the ladies who work here are expected to be whores. Expect to be paid for sex. Didn’t know she was a virgin until I broke through.”

Fox had his pants pulled on and fastened. He realized then his bag was missing. “The lady might not be a whore but she is a thief!” He pointed to the spot by the door where he left his bag. “She stole my satchel. Best you know where to find this virgin whore.” His voice was harsh, his feelings crueler. If he ever found his virgin whore he’d strangle her thin white neck. “I want my satchel back.”

“Was the bag so important?” Hannah asked, but the expression on her face told him the question wasn’t necessary. “I don’t know her name. If you recall, last night she couldn’t speak. Of course, I don’t know where to find the lady. She is a lady. I’m certain of the fact. What she was doing in this part of the city is beyond me. Though she was running from a pimp.”

“Contained fifty thousand pounds…” he gritted out between gnashing teeth. “I want the money back. You need to do all in your power to discover who this lady is as well as where I can find her.”

Hannah threw up her hands, shooting him a look of disgust. “Can’t give you something I don’t have. How do I know you’re telling the truth? This could be a ruse on your part. No…” Hannah paused; one finger pressed against her chin. “You would never make something like this up. Fifty thousand pounds should not be much of anything to a man of your standing.”

“Don’t doubt me. Thought this place was honest. The money was meant for my business in Michigan. If you haven’t guessed, it’s my father who has the considerable bank account, not me.” Inside he was sweating. All his dreams of rebuilding his home along with his business had just gone up in flames. “I’ll call the constables. They can rake over this house with a fine-tooth comb. Search every square inch of the place. Maybe we’ll find the girl. When we do, I’ve questions.”

Hanna swiveled to confront the burly bodyguard. “Angus, search the house. His satchel of money has got to be here. Don’t believe our little lady is a thief. She couldn’t have taken it with her. Did you set the bag down somewhere then forget about it?”

“See that you do search every inch. I would not set the bag down out of my sight. The money inside the satchel was my future.” Fox was tucking his shirt into his pants. His anger was overflowing. His hopes along with his dreams dying. This was not what he expected upon waking up this morning. With his money safely in the bank, he intended to leave town within the week. Hell, that was most of the money he had in the world. He no longer had the five thousand pounds he began gambling with. He didn’t have another five thousand pounds for another night of gaming. Should have forgone the brothel. Hindsight was always the very devil.

Hindsight.

Two hours later, bathed and with a change of clothing, Fox sat in the breakfast room of his father’s townhouse, sipping strong black coffee. His dreams vanished because he needed a whore. A virgin whore no less. He despised himself.

“My, my, you don’t look as if you got up on the right side of the bed,” Beryl waltzed into the room, poured herself a cup of tea before adding cream and sugar. She bent over to kiss his cheek giving him a bird’s eye view of the valley between her breasts. He jerked away but not in time to miss the dampness of her lips on his face.

“Stuff it, Beryl. Don’t want anything to do with conversation or you.” Fox was not in the mood to speak with anyone, especially not this woman who he despised.

She made a face at him then smiled while she tossed her hair over her shoulder. “Now, is that anyway to speak to your stepmother. Should show me respect.”

“Suppose you earned whatever you get flat on your back while spreading your legs for my father. No baby yet? How is Father taking the news? Jake wants an heir. Since I don’t wish to have anything to do with living in the city, the old man wants a second heir. You’re going to need to do better or Jake might find another woman half his age to bed then marry.” One dark eyebrow arched toward the ceiling. He shouldn’t speak to her in this manner. Couldn’t help himself. This morning his entire world crashed down around his shoulders. He would start over. Would work for his father until spring. Win the money back. He needed to be in Michigan.

Beryl stood behind him, her hand resting on his shoulder. Fox shrugged the offending hand off. She set her fingers back. He didn’t intend to play any of her games. “Try being nice once in a while,” she said, her voice sweet with stinging venom.

Fox pushed her hand from his shoulder.

She bent close to whisper in his ear. Touched the tip of her tongue to the lobe. “I’m always nice to you. Feels so good to be nice. If you would allow me, I could be even nicer.”

He stood, knocking his chair to the floor with the force of his movement. He picked up his coffee. Fox needed to speak with his father. Jake would be in his office now. That was where he was this time of day, every day. So predictable it hurt. Fox hated predictable. Loved the spontaneity of his life. One never knew what would happen from one day to the next. He thrived in that atmosphere.

The door to the office was open. Fox strode inside. Shut the door behind him. Brought up a chair in front of the big desk where his father sat. His father didn’t show his age. Except for a few gray hairs around his temples, he could be thirty instead of almost fifty.

Jake tapped his finger on the cherrywood. His eyes narrowed as if he knew this would be bad news. “To what do I owe this visit? Thought you’d be upstairs packing since you are so eager to get away from me as well as the city.” He leaned forward, his forearms resting on the desk. The pads of his fingers tapped on the surface. “You have a change of heart? Are you staying longer? If so, you’d make an old man happy.”

Fox lifted one shoulder in a shrug meant to be carefree. He didn’t want Jake to realize how devastated he was. “Lost the money. So…one might say I’m staying a wee bit longer.”

The tapping stopped. Jake’s brows drew together in a frown. His lips thinned. Silence heaved around the room, stretching Fox’s nerves to a snapping point. His stomach lurched. Jake sat back, his hand forming a steeple beneath his chin. The pose was thoughtful.

“How? Don’t like to hear bad news. You were smug last night after your win. What changed in less than twelve hours?”

“Stolen by the little whore I bedded. Guess what I intended to pay her for the night wasn’t enough. She wanted everything I owned.” The bitterness in his tone was still there. Wouldn’t go away for a long time, if ever. He didn’t like confessing to his father the reality; he was done in by a virgin whore.

“What are your intentions? I gather you are not planning on leaving the city until you’ve managed to get the money back. Don’t understand how the lady could get away. Doesn’t Hannah just hire regulars?”

“One way or the other I’ll find a means.”

“I see. When you can, you will find the gaming tables again. You could lose.”

“True. Will work for you until I’ve enough money for another game of chance. Mean to win the money back. Start over. You know I’m skilled at games of chance. Lots of luck at the card tables; seems the opposite at whorehouses. Counting cards is easy for me. Need to be in Michigan by summer.” Fox lifted his shoulders, trying to shrug off his disappointment. Didn’t work.

“You will understand if I’m not disappointed by the news. You’re better off here in civilization than pursuing this ridiculousness…” Jake cleared his throat seeming to think better of spouting his opinion.

Dreams…I’m pursuing my dreams… They are not ridiculous.

“As well you know, to me…Michigan coupled with my dreams are far from preposterous. I belong out there just as you belong in the city. I love the clean air along with the open spaces, the spontaneity of each day. There are never two the same. One can look for miles and see only the mountains along with the trees. Timber is my livelihood.” Fox didn’t wish to get into an argument with his father. The two of them had been over this topic too many times to count. They didn’t need another go around. Nothing would change.

Jake’s fist landed hard on top of the table. Papers jumped. “Hell! You could die in a snow drift. No one would know for days…months…” Jake waved his hand in the air, clearly frustrated by his desire to live in the untamed land.

“My men would find me.” He leaned forward, his forearms resting on the desk. Met his father’s gaze with hard determination in his eyes, understanding there was no compromise between the two of them. “I’m not stupid. Not going to die in a snow drift. Would never take chances that would have me in a situation I could not climb out of.”

“You could be shot by outlaws,” Jake pointed out. “There are any number of ways to die out there.”

“Could be run over by a carriage on High Street,” Fox, in turn, pointed out, his tone bland. “Don’t get your hopes up that I might stay in Glasgow to help with your business. That’s not going to happen. One way or the other, I’ll find the money I need to leave in fine style. If I’m unable to raise the funds on my own, I plan on looking for someone willing to invest in my company. Don’t mind another partner if he is honest. Though I would plan on a buyout clause.”

“Very well, if you plan on working for me, I’ll need you to accompany me to a dinner meeting I’ve arranged. Are you going to stay here?” Jake studied him. “Work for me? You will be my right-hand man.”

“Yes. What kind of dinner meeting?”

“With a wealthy friend of mine. Jasper Kenworthy is his name. He’s a marquis. Has a twin brother name of Jason.”

“What’s the business?”

“The man wishes to branch out, to invest in my shipping line. You do recall we’ve a lucrative trade between Virginia and here. We supply Scotland with good Virginia tobacco. Believe the man might be interested in your plan. Probably won’t appreciate a buyout clause.”

Fox wondered how much of this shipping line would be part of his inheritance. His father told him he would lend him fifty thousand. He didn’t want his father’s groats. Needed to make this deal by himself. Didn’t wish to be under Jake’s thumb.

“He wants to invest…” Fox pondered those thoughts for a few ticks of the clock sitting in the hall. He didn’t care one way or the other. His father would pay him a salary. He would do whatever it took. “A dinner meeting in two nights, you say?”

“From tonight.”

“I’ll be there.” He sipped from the cup of coffee he brought with him from the breakfast room. “Anything important I should know?”

“Jasper is the guardian of two young ladies. Very inappropriate…the females live in the townhouse with him. Though there are a few extenuating circumstances to take under consideration.”

“How did something so contrary to the moral values of his city’s fine upstanding people come about? What are these extenuating circumstance? Something I should learn about?” Something about what he said made him sit up with interest. He found himself curious “Not the best thing. Though doesn’t seem as if the house is a bachelor’s residence.”

“The ladies are his wife’s sisters. Maggie is his wife’s name. She is the oldest of four. His twin, Jason, is wed to the youngest, Tessa. Maggie will be there with her. Beryl will also attend. Don’t know who else will be in attendance.”

“If you are planning a bit of matchmaking, I’m not looking for a wife. Nothing to hold me here in this part of Scotland if that’s what you had in mind. Besides, a Scottish wife would never keep me here. I’m going back to Michigan. If I wed, which I’m not going to do for the foreseeable future, my wife would go where I go. I need a woman strong enough to live in the backcountry, one who will love the mountains as much as I do.”

“Beryl burned you that bad.” Jake held up his hands in surrender. His old man understood Beryl was not a good topic of conversation between the two men. “Should not go there. I’ve no regrets where it comes to my wife. I love her. Loved her from the first moment I set eyes on her. It has never failed to amaze me that she wanted me.”

“The woman wanted your money,” he said with a snigger. “Beryl is a gold digger. You were the better catch. Better than a dirt-poor timber baron. Besides, when I met her, she pretended to love the ranch while all the while she begged me to move to the city…any city.”

“You weren’t poor until you lost a sizeable amount of timber in a flood,” Jake pointed out. “You’re not poor now. At least you wouldn’t be if you sold the land.”

No, he wasn’t. Nonetheless, Jake had more money than he could spend in a lifetime. Even if he lost a ship, his financial status wouldn’t be fazed. Lots of money was what Beryl wanted. Fox understood he shouldn’t belittle his father’s relationship with his ex-fiancée. He should be happy for him.

“What is my salary?”

“Let’s negotiate this later. The money will be substantial. While I don’t wish for you to leave, I’m not going to try to keep you here with a meager amount of money. I’m no scrooge. I appreciate a man’s worth. You are worth far more than rotting on land away from people who love as well as appreciate you. Even though you don’t wish to be part of my business, you know it well.”

Fox hands fisted. He bellowed. “Leaving is what I want! My land is what I want!”

~ * ~

“Fox sent a constable to oversee the search of the brothel. We left nothing unturned. The brown satchel he claims to have come here with has vanished. The money disappeared with the bag. The girl had to be the thief. As he explained, there was no one else in the room.” Hannah ran her hand along the back of her neck while Angus looked on, a sad expression in his deep brown eyes. Hannah stiffened her shoulders, determined to make the best of this situation. “Don’t believe for a moment the lass stole the money. I’m a good judge of character as you’ve always told me. Her life had been threatened. She sought refuge here. What did I do for her? I failed to protect her interests. Sent a man to her to take her virginity.”

“She is a lady. The way she was dressed…her speech. Wouldn’t have need of the groats. She comes from wealth. That much was apparent,” Angus acknowledged her sentiments. “The rawness of her throat was also not a pretense. The lass was sick.”

Hannah felt desperation down to the tips of her toes. She wished she could find the money so she could return it to Fox. “This little incident could ruin our reputation. Devastate us. What are we going to do? Can’t have people believing our place of business would employ girls who were thieves. Don’t know how to find her. The little gal never gave us a name. Poor wee lass couldn’t speak.”

“That’s Halsey’s business. Cutthroats along with whores. He pimps everything out. His girls seldom last more than a few years. He rides them hard, uses them up real fast. When you dared to talk with the man, thought he might have some clue as to the name of the girl. When the lass was mentioned, he got this gleam in his eyes. Thought then and there he was lying through his teeth.” Angus stood at the back door staring out at the waning light of the day. “Remember when I heard her pounding on the door begging for help. The little gal was frantic to get away from that man. Of course, at the time she didn’t know what lay in store for her with Halsey.”

“Halsey didn’t know the girl’s name either. Hoped when you lugged him over here, he could give us some type of clue about the lass. Nothing. Think he’s lying. I’d wager the man knows more than he’s telling us. He had a flicker in his eyes.” Hannah repeated her earlier sentiments about the encounter. She set the tip of her finger on her chin. “Yes, Halsey had that look in his eyes when he’s after something or someone. He was after the girl for a specific reason. The question is why. Other than he needed a fresh new face in his stable. I’ll wager there is something else behind his infatuation with this particular young lady.”

“Told us he rescued her from the hands of two seamen. Rough sort…she ran right into him. Landed on her little butt right at his feet. Seems pretty convenient to me. Mumbled something about a monogramed handkerchief. What could that be about?” Angus asked as he turned back to Hannah.

“She didn’t leave anything behind as a clue. Who the hell is she? The rich sometimes go on scavenger hunts. A way of playing with each other.  A monogramed handkerchief might be what she was after when she strayed into the wrong part of the city. She must have been lost.” Hannah was pacing the tight confines of her little office. There are only a few blocks between the better part of town and this district. Might have been possible for her to wander here without knowing where she was.

Hannah couldn’t afford anything to happen to her business. She fought to keep her girls safe from men like Halsey. Struggled to make certain all the ladies in this house were taken care of. Saint was on a retainer. He doctored the ladies if they were abused. Delivered their babies when their precautions didn’t play out. She tried never to allow a man to abuse the women she employed. Angus helped her see to that. Oh, abuse happened once in a while. The abusers were never allowed back in her front door. She always made certain Saint saw to the injured gals.

“Why would the girl steal Fox’s money? To me that’s the bigger question. A brown satchel could not have been on the list for her game. Fox told us he gave her brandy. The drink mixed with the laudanum she gave her would have left her mind muddled. She might not have known what she was doing. Do you think that’s possible?”

“Anything is possible. The lass wasn’t feeling up to snuff. Could it be conceivable she didn’t know what was in the bag? Maybe thought the satchel was hers?” Hannah asked, feeling more than puzzled by the missing bag, rehashing all she recalled from the night before. She felt as if she grasped at straws.

“When she opens it, she will return it here or send it with a messenger. Would hope the girl has enough common sense not to bring it herself.”

The girl was a mystery. One she’d love to solve.