Glasgow, Scotland 1835

“I want the place shut down!” His hand landed hard on his desk, emphasizing his point before he sat down. His Adam’s apple bobbed as he seemed to wait for a reaction. The man behind the desk drummed his fingertips on the hard wood. In a calm voice this time he announced, “Prostitution should be illegal. It’s not right for women to sell themselves.”

“It’s not illegal and it’s not right that women are put in that position. In a more perfect world,” Ryan Alexander said, speaking through gritted teeth. “What grounds are there to shut the place down? If I’m going to put an end to this business, I need a solid reason.”

Birk grinned as he began to address his concerns. “It’s all about control. In this situation, we’re speaking of disease control. We must regulate the spread of infectious diseases.” Chief Birk picked up a pen then started scribbling some directions. He handed the paper over to him. “Go to Miss Scarlett’s little whorehouse. See what you can discover. Buy an escort. Your stellar character should pass on the questions the women have for each man. Have a little fun while you gather information. That would be the best way to prove these women are spreading syphilis, among other less deadly diseases. What you will be doing is all for a good cause. Don’t want any more men to die from something that’s incurable.”

“You want me to…” Both frustrated as well as annoyed, he passed his hand across his face. Ryan didn’t know how to question his boss. Employing an escort service was not in the realm of his comforts. He was appalled with the suggestion. Stunned. He wasn’t about to have sex with a courtesan. Had no intention of risking his health for any reason…work related or not. Understood in most instances when a man employed an escort, the reason was for sex. He imagined he would take one of the ladies for dinner, plying them with questions they would never answer. All would be a gigantic waste of time.

Birk waved his hand in the air, looking impatient. “Of course not, however, you can wine and dine one of the ladies. See what this operation is all about. It is said the women are all beautiful at Miss Scarlett’s place. Would not be difficult to infiltrate this escort service. Escort…hah! Just a fancy name for selling sex. We both comprehend the basic truth.”

“Maybe…you want me to lie about my intentions?” Ryan asked, his mind billowing in too many directions to grab hold of a single idea. The description of this assignment kept getting worse and worse. He slanted a wary look toward his boss. “Lie to the women who work there? Deceive them? Pretend I’m something I’m not? These ladies who are trying to make ends meet in the only way they know how? You do realize most women in this position are down on their luck. If given any other opportunity to put a roof over their head and food in their stomach’s, they would never sell their bodies.” He didn’t understand why he had a soft spot for ladies of the evening. He always believed any woman down on her luck could end up working on her back. If not for his family’s wealth, his sister could have ended up on her back doing the same.

With a nonchalant shrug, Birk gave him a response. “It’s sex…plain and simple. Women use their bodies to trap men. They flaunt their female attributes, luring men to succumb to their wishes. The profession is as old as time. Goes back centuries. This is the year to vanquish the profession forever. Under my watch, Glasgow is going to be free of prostitution.”

“Good luck with that,” Ryan mumbled as he stopped pacing to place his hands on Birk’s desk. Leaning forward, he spoke, his voice low. He didn’t intend to show his anger even though the fury bubbled up. “I’m not liking the sound of this assignment. Seems to me I’d be encroaching on someone’s privacy…maybe a whole lot of someone’s. I’m a detective, not a spy. I ferret out information for the good of the people.”

“What’s the difference?” Birk asked, his half-smile repulsive.

“In my mind, a whole hell of a lot. This goes against my basic principles. Principles I’ve lived with my entire adult life.”

“Aren’t you up for promotion in April?” The question was a sly one, meant to intimidate. The partial smile never wavered.

Ryan understood exactly what the question meant. He wasn’t going to let himself be intimidated, “Yes…are you saying if I refuse this assignment, I won’t be promoted?”  No matter how the question was worded, this was blackmail. Nonetheless, he would always take the assignment. No matter how distasteful, he never turned down missions, assuring himself this one was better taken by him than one of his fellow agents. At least he had an open mind toward the ladies in this vocation. He wasn’t hell bent on cleaning up the worst part of the city. A religious fanatic, he wasn’t. There were groups of men who could turn into zealots at the drop of a pin. Prostitution often brought on that type of outrageous bigotry and intolerance.

“No…however it is something to look into. Detectives must be willing to undertake jobs they might not like. Whether you admit to the fact or not, you are perfect for this situation. You are a handsome man. The ladies will swoon to have you in their bed.”

His back stiffened as his indignation bristled. The backhanded compliment didn’t go unnoticed. He swallowed his anger to present a few truths. “I’ve taken distasteful projects before. As well you know. Won’t change now. Besides taking a lady as an escort, is there anything else you want from me? Did you want me to discover secret correspondence? Find a way to put them in a hard spot they can’t get out from under? Put them out on the streets so they don’t have a roof over their head. It is winter.”

“How did you guess? Of course, there is another reason: Lord Robert Munroe, better known by his street name of Bobby. I want all the dirt you can get on him. He has been flying under the scope of the law for far too long. Been involved with some underhanded and dangerous men.” Birk paused for a breath of air. Coughed as he caught a whiff of smoke whirling upward from the cigar he left in the ashtray. Waved the smoke away with his hand.

“You wish for me to get dirt on the marquis?” This was the first time he felt truly shocked. “Why ever for?” There wasn’t a single reason he could think of to go after a lord of the realm, especially someone who was a known friend of the powerful Duke of Southcliff. It was also well-known Munroe and his wife, Letty, rarely lived in the city. The establishment was run by one of her trusted ladies. “Doubt if there will be anything to discover.” He wasn’t as open minded to this line of spying as he was to prostitution.

“Munroe has ties to the underworld that go back to his childhood,” Birk said, as he sat back in his chair, seeming to study him. “I want to learn who he has befriended. There is more to this man than meets the eye. The government wants answers.”

What Birk could see would be the shocked expression on his face. Stunned…no one went after the aristocracy. No one implied the Duke of Southcliff might also be working on the wrong side of the law. “From all I’ve heard that was a long time ago. The man was sold to a street gang when he was a baby. He grew up in the bowels of London.”

“Maybe…maybe not. True, he was brought up in the worst part of London. Learned how to pick pockets, enter homes through locked windows and doors. Was a real scallywag. He made no secret of his wrongdoings. Didn’t wish to have the title. Aristocracy was forced on him. He might be longing to go back to his old ways. More exciting ways. More danger. Some men crave danger more than they desire sex.”

This was the first information that made the job sound interesting. “Catching a Lord at thievery. Is that what you’re asking? The man couldn’t possibly want for funds. Rumor has it Miss Scarlett, Letty, his wife, has more than enough money to support their household. Bobby inherited more when he regained his title. Money that accrued interest during the years he spent picking pockets in London. Why the devil would he want to put his life on the line?”

“Hardly, more like catching a lord at espionage. True, Robert Munroe inherited a rather large fortune. He might miss the excitement, the intrigue, the danger.”

Holy Christ! “This could be treason. So, I get close to a lady. Take her out to a melodrama at the Harmonic Concert Rooms & Tavern, food along with a show all in one outing. I wind my way into the good graces of all in Miss Letty’s establishment. Become a trusted member in their household so I can ferret out information. Is that what you’re asking?”

“Good thinking,” he slapped him on the back. “You have the right idea. Gain the confidence of one of the ladies. Make her feel as if she is the one and only person you care about. Ask questions that might garner needed information. Let her think you are falling in love. What could be simpler? You are a smooth-talking guy. Use your manly seductive skills.”

On that sour note his stomach flipped upside down. He was never one for lying or omitting truths in order to take advantage of the fairer sex. It would be doubly hard to make a woman think he wanted more than her company, that maybe he harbored thoughts of a more permanent relationship.

“More than shutting down the escort service, you want dirt on Bobby Munroe. What if he’s clean? I don’t see how there would be damming information in his wife’s place of business. Why would an intelligent man risk his livelihood by hiding evidence in a residence that is highly visible?”

“It’s all we’ve got. You would never be invited to his country home, which is where he spends the majority of his time. You are right with one of your deductions. Miss Scarlett’s place of residence is not the first place I would look. However…it’s the only location we can put under surveillance. Lord Munroe doesn’t associate with the other lords in Glasgow or Edinburgh. He does have another good friend, a duke, who he spent time with in London. He and his wife visit there often. Again, it is not a location at our disposal. Miss Scarlett’s place is our only chance to ferret out the needed information.”

He let out a long reluctant sigh. Cracked all his knuckles in frustration with this new assignment. “When do you want me to start?”

“Now. There is no time like the present. Make your first appearance today. Get the lay of the land. I’ve heard clients must answer questions. Miss Scarlett vets the men who she lets see her ladies. Also heard the ladies are not expected to have sex with the men they step out with. Sex is their choice.” Birk’s smile was overeager now that he knew the win was his. Now, his was a full-mouth smile. The man enjoyed this new situation he was putting him in.

“I understand.” No sex suited him fine. He didn’t wish to have a sexual relationship with a courtesan. He’d been wondering how he would get around that problem. Birk just handed him the answer to his dilemma.

“Remember, you must win the trust of the chosen lady. Make her feel as if she wants to give you the world. Do anything you ask of her. This might not be easy. I’ve also heard tell Miss Scarlett is well liked by her household of women. None of them would ever wish her or her husband harm. Most of these ladies of the evening came to her to find a safe place far from their stormy lives. Find out the reason behind your escort’s life that sent her to Miss Scarlett’s.”

The longer this conversation lasted, the more conflicting truths were presented. At this juncture, he wasn’t positive about the entire scope of his job. Seemed to be important facts that were lacking. “Is there something I’m missing? Feel as if you’ve left out several significant pieces of the puzzle you are wanting me to solve. Munroe isn’t recruiting girls, is he? I’ve heard of another man who has been enlisting women off the streets to sell.” Pausing, he watched Birk’s expressions. “This other one is also a high-class brothel. The girls are expected to have sex with the men who buy their services for an evening. In this decision, the women are not given a choice. Why not try to shut that one down instead of Miss Scarlett’s?”

“Ah…” Birk sat back again, closing his eyes for a few seconds. Tapping his fingers together as if pondering a valid response. “You’re talking about Lord Nelson Abernathy, along with his employed pimp, Halsey. You’re right to ask the question. It’s my intention to shut them all down. We are working with the easiest first, learning relevant strategies as we move along.”

“I would think Miss Scarlett’s would be the most difficult, since the women who are working for her are all there on a volunteer basis. There has been no recruiting of ladies. Sex isn’t mandatory. Rumor has it the ladies come to her seeking help. They will not be quick to spill information about their beloved employers.”

“All valid points.” Birk continued tapping. Giving it up he sat forward, his brows drawn together. “Soon enough…once we get the goods on Munroe, we’ll see how fast we can put these two scoundrels out of business.”

“Isn’t there a lady involved also?  Seems…” he asked, trying to come up with a name. Recalling some of the gossip when the three returned from the US almost a year ago. For several months the pimp and the lady remained in seclusion. During that time nothing was spoken about them. “Heard tell the two of them were tarred and feathered then run out of a small logging town in Michigan. Any truth to that?” he asked, once again interested in the story.

“Anice MacRae, yes. She has four daughters. Two are married and living in Michigan. The other two are married to the Kenworthy twins. The relationships were all fraught with intrigue, but according to my information, quite above board. There are stories, however, the twins keep what happened between the girls and their mother quiet. Won’t speak of the events. Seems the Duke of Southcliff and his wife were involved also. They too remain quiet on the topic.”

His mind was traveling in a million different directions. Seemed the pimp and Abernathy should be his focus if the intention was to rid the city of prostitution. Scarlett’s place seemed the lesser of two evils, even when there was something clandestine smoldering around Bobby Munroe and Glasgow’s underworld. He supposed Munroe’s past might have something to do with his boss’ concerns.

“I’ll see what I can do.” He was searching his mind for a cover story. Something that couldn’t be disproved. He learned a long time ago to stay as close to the truth as possible. In this case, that was his intention. Lies of omission would also work. He needed to make certain whatever lady escorted him also trusted him. Under these circumstances, that might be difficult to maneuver.

Weaving a tale about his past was easy. There was a lot about his life up to this point that could never be called savory. He could always begin with the loss of his wife. Pauly had been very young when she left him. Pauly wasn’t dead, just gone from his existence. She ran off with a lover. How he never saw her infidelity left him speechless. The woman never tried to hide her affairs. The fact came as a surprise to him that she had more than one lover during their short marriage. Deep down, he understood not all women were cut from the same cloth. Didn’t believe the fact he wasn’t about to risk putting himself in that position again.

When she ran off, she was pregnant. He never thought the baby was his. From the moment they said their vows, she didn’t want him, not even on their wedding night. They never slept in the same bed. Pauly insisted on a room of her own. When he confronted her as to why she agreed to marry him, she lifted her shoulders in a pretty little shrug that told him nothing. She left him clueless.

At that moment, recalling Pauly’s indifferent shrug, his heart hardened. Now, when he wanted a bit of relief, he went to his favorite widow. The woman was clean as well as safe. To the best of his knowledge, he was the only man she saw. If there were more men in her life, he doubted she would have told him. Still, that fact made no difference. Who was he to dictate what she could or couldn’t do?

“Good luck,” Birk’s voice shook him out of his meandering thoughts.

Bringing himself back to reality, he spoke, “Thanks. Going to need it. This is a job I’m not looking forward to.” He would need all the luck he could find. Going out the door, he put his hat on then buttoned his coat. “Imagine I’ll need some luck here with the weather. The prospects are not that good.”

Standing on the stoop, he looked to the cloudy gray skies. Wind made the branches of the trees sway. A storm brewed overhead as well as in his life. It would start raining soon. He pulled out the paper Birk handed him with the address of Miss Scarlett’s residence. The home was in a nice part of town. Clean. Good neighborhood. The other people in the neighborhood must balk at a whorehouse in their midst. Wondered what the scuttlebutt was. Perhaps some of the neighbors might know something.

Ryan hailed a cab. Rode the ten minutes it would take to reach Miss Scarlett’s place with his head resting on the back cushion, going over his cover story. Thinking of the next few days or weeks it might take to do this assignment, he tried to put everything Birk told him into perspective. Until he surveyed the home along with the ladies, nothing seemed to be intertwined in a realistic way. He would need to play this one from one moment to the next.

When the cab stopped in front of the house, just as he’d thought, the skies propelled a torrent of rain to the ground. A brisk wind drove the drops sliding sideways. From the cab to the porch, he stepped fast, jumping over a few puddles. More rain pelted him from the side, lashing at him. On the porch he shook out his coat and hat. Drops splattered around him.

Inside, gas lights lit up the downstairs rooms. The place appeared empty until he caught sight of a small figure walking down the steps. Through a window he could see the entry as well as the parlor. Didn’t notice anyone else inside. Where the devil was everyone? The time was nearing four o’clock. Shouldn’t the ladies be inside plying their trade? The interior of this house didn’t look like any brothel he’d ever seen. It appeared to be a normal home. What the devil was going on? Did Birk have his facts all mixed up?

As he raised his hand to use the lion’s head knocker on the front door, it swung open. “Can I help you, Sir?” The voice was small, quiet in the extreme, feminine. She looked up at him with wide blue eyes along with a smile that melted his heart. The girl stepped back to make room for him. “Do come in. Welcome to Miss Letty’s establishment.” She was polite to a fault. Must have been trained in that way.

The lady standing in front of him was tiny, fragile looking. Her flaming red hair was swept into a chignon at the base of her neck. Tiny whisps of curls tumbled around her piquant face. Her rose-tinted lips were thinned, either in disapproval or fright, maybe something else. There were no freckles that he could see dancing across her turned-up nose. The lady was absolutely lovely, enticing all his male instincts. For the first time in the last hour, he thought that perhaps this assignment would be to his liking. Being escorted by this woman would never be a hardship.

Could she help him? Yes, she definitely could do just that. He needed to travel forward. Clearing his throat, he began with a soft voice, hoping not to frighten her. “I’m looking for Miss Scarlett or whoever else is in charge tonight. You could take me to the lady in question.”

This time, she smiled the tiniest of smiles. One that sent his mouth watering for a taste of plump, soft lips. “I can take a message. Tell me your name and what you would like? What kind of lady do you favor? There will be some more questions in Annie’s office.” Her voice broke a couple of times, wavering with what sounded like indecision.

Names might be a good place to start. She was the type of lady he favored. When he first set eyes on her, his body jerked to life. Stepping into the house, he nodded, a polite gesture to lend encouragement. “I am Ryan Alexander. Your turn.” This little gal didn’t fit the image he had of a prostitute or courtesan. What was the norm for one of these ladies of the evening? He couldn’t see this woman unveiling herself for any man who paid the price then reminded himself these women could say no to sex. Her blouse was buttoned all the way to her neck, revealing nothing except her chin.

“Noelle…” she didn’t give him a last name. He would discover it soon enough. The way he saw this, the slower the better. “What do you want? What type of lady are you looking for? Blond? Brunette? Tall? Slender? I’m certain there is a lady here who will fit whatever description you give. We have all varieties.”

All varieties was a unique spin on this. Gesturing with his hand, he asked, “Should we move into the parlor? I would think it will be more comfortable where it’s warmer.”

Her aquamarine eyes grew into huge pools. He wasn’t certain if it was fear she was feeling or something entirely different. “Y…yes…I su…suppose.” Her breasts danced in a delightful display of femininity as she sucked air into her lungs. “Don’t usually do this. I’m new to introductions. Since no one…”

“Do what? What don’t you usually do?” He set his hand on her elbow, ushering her into the drawing room. It didn’t take much to realize Noelle was out of her element just talking to him. With his hand on her arm, he felt the shaking of her small body. “Don’t be afraid of me. I would never hurt you. Try to relax. Inhale a few deep breaths. Calm yourself. Are you new here?” He watched fascinated as she followed his instructions.

Relaxing wasn’t going to happen anytime soon. Even the deep breaths she inhaled at his suggestion did nothing to put her at ease. “Would you…would you like a glass of wine? I’m supposed to act polite. Oh my, they should all be back by now. This isn’t supposed to happen. I’m not,” she said as she stepped away, distancing herself. “I know gentlemen callers are always offered refreshments. Wine? Something else? I could see if there is tea.” She seemed reluctant to talk as well as eager to please.

“Why do I get the feeling I make you uncomfortable?” She splashed wine into a glass then handed it to him. He wanted to ask about her obvious fear. Decided that question could wait for a more appropriate time.

“It’s your comfort that is important, not mine. Rule of the house, a man should always be made to feel at home.”

Damn the rules of the house. He needed Noelle to let down her guard. He sat down, leaning back in the chair crossing his ankles. “Why don’t you try to relax? You asked me the type of woman I preferred. That woman is you. Petite. Red hair minus freckles, though…sometimes it’s a delight to kiss each freckle. Do you have freckles anywhere? The tops of your breasts would be a delightful place to kiss. Eyes the color of the Mediterranean Sea.” He could go on listing all her adorable attributes. Tiny waist. Adequate breasts. Hips that flare provocatively.

It was no surprise to him she sucked air after hearing his comments. She tilted her pretty chin into the air, looking at him through lowered dark lashes. “I’m not one of the ladies here. I’m just…” Appearing too nervous for words, Noelle sent her small pink tongue across her mouth. The moisture left behind gave him the distinct need to taste. Maybe follow the same path with his tongue. Theirs could play together. Dance a jig or a slow waltz with each other for an entire night of lovemaking. Playing. Holding her close. Positive thoughts. Caresses here then there, perhaps anywhere then everywhere…at this moment.

He sent her an inquisitive smile. There was so much about this charming woman he needed to learn. “If you are not one of the ladies here then what, pray tell, are you doing in Miss Scarlett’s establishment? Were you planning on stealing something? Did I interrupt your plans? Or…are you a little tease?” At her look of panic, he almost cracked a laugh. Instead, he schooled his features while he waited for her answer. Gave his full attention to her eyes. Noticed the way the two aquamarine jewels crossed then uncrossed.

“No…how could you imply such a thing? I would never steal from Miss Letty. She’s given me a safe place to live. If not for her, I would be out on…” Holding her body still, her words sounded breathless. It seemed she didn’t wish to give away more information about herself.

She needed to drink more air. Fast breaths that might not have reached her lungs darted in then out. He decided he would wait for a better explanation. One she might divulge once she calmed. He sipped his wine before setting the glass on the nearby table. He was ready, no, eager, for the next phase of his new assignment.

After several frantic beats of her heart, she blurted. “I’m the upstairs maid. There is no one else here…at the house. If you are going to see any of the girls, you must be interviewed. It’s important. Since Lord Abernathy…since he took advantage of our rules, we have made it clear that the interview must take place before a gentleman can be escorted by someone in the house.”

“Upstairs maid?” He was astounded. Noelle was far too beautiful to be hidden away where no one would see her. On the other hand, the information pleased him. “Does that mean you never act as an escort?” Disappointment slid to the tips of his hairy toes. “I want you. No one else will do. How can I change your status? I would that you keep me company this evening.”

“I’m not available that way or any way. I clean, dust, sweep and many more things,” Noelle told him as her back stiffened and her chin tilted upward again. Clearing her throat, she began anew. “When the ladies return, you will need to pick from one of the escorts if you wish for company. It won’t be difficult. They are all rather lovely, perfect in every way, willing. I’m positive one of the ladies will please you.”

“No. What if you’re the only one I want? You please me. I would step out with no one except you.” He hoped she would be flattered. Wouldn’t tell him no again. Positive thoughts, she would make more money as an escort than as a maid. He was certain of that pertinent fact. “I’ll take you to dinner and the theatre. Treat you to a night out on the town then see you home with a promise of another time. Even an upstairs maid deserves a little play time. Assure you that you will have fun. Won’t make any demands.”

“I’m not…” Her gaze clashed with his. Noelle was shaking her head as if the gesture would mean something to him. “I’m not…”

That way. In his mind he put an end to her beginning. Telling him no didn’t mean anything to a man who was used to getting his way. He decided to jump to a conclusion. Tell her his thoughts then see if he was right. “You’ve never slept with a man. I would like to be your first. I will treat you to pleasure.” Hell, he was in a brothel with an innocent woman. What an odd accident of fate. He shouldn’t or should he be straightforward?

Her peaches and cream complexion turned to fire red at his suggestive proposal. “I… I would not…” Nervous energy sent her tongue across her lips again, then sideswiped them another time. “You’re being rude to suggest such things. I’m a good girl.” Her pronouncement was sincere, straight from the heart. Not for a moment did he doubt her truth.

He could…wanted to kiss her right now, hoping to change her status from a good girl to a naughty one. Taking Noelle into his arms then molding his lips with hers would be heaven. He needed to discover if she tasted as sweet as she looked. “Perhaps. Doesn’t a man need to know if the woman he intends to entertain has been intimate before him? At this residence don’t you think it’s a valid assumption that a woman has had experience?”

“I don’t act as an escort. All I do in this house is clean the upstairs,” Noelle replied with her chin jutting into the air. “Besides, at Miss Letty’s it is not assumed that the escort will sleep with the man she is keeping company with. Many of the women do not. That is part of the contract a gentlemen must sign before he is allowed to take a girl somewhere nice. First, he needs to agree the choice of sleeping with him is up to the woman in question.”

“Should we take our conversation upstairs where you might be more comfortable? I am a man who is all about contentment. Together, we could figure out what you want. We could make love in your bed.”

“Men are not allowed upstairs, only women.”

Her curt response took him a step backward while he mulled over her words. He found himself backpedaling when all he wished was to move forward.

“A fine rule, I suppose. Is that to protect the residents?”

“If you would…I can bring the contract out or you can follow me to the office then sign the document, if you’re serious about buying an escort. If not, you need to leave.” Fidgeting, she was arranging then rearranging her skirt. Every so often, he caught glimpses of her ankles. Nice ankles. Trim. Imagined them wrapped around his flanks. Imagined a lot of other things too. His imagination danced with pleasure.

Oh, he was serious. What she would realize soon was the fact he didn’t lie. She was the woman he wanted. No other lady would do. “I will need to read the papers first. Why don’t you go get them…no…” Noelle seemed so flighty she might not return. He didn’t intend to let her out of his sight until he convinced her he was harmless. “I’ll follow you to the office. Let’s go.” He downed the remainder of his wine then rose. Motioned with his hand, “After you.”

Noelle didn’t say a word. Her footsteps lagged as she walked back to the entry then deeper into the house. The soft clicking of her shoes seemed to echo in the hall. Opening the door to a small room, she waited for him to step inside. A cheery gas light was turned on, casting shadows around the room as she walked inside. Noelle opened a cabinet then pulled out a paper. Stiff-armed, she held it out to him.

“Here it is.”

“Will you read it to me?” He was casting for information. She would either tell him she couldn’t read or… In any case he would learn something more about the little lady. Wished to know if she’d been educated and to what length.

“If that’s what you wish.”

She brought her hand holding the paper back then stood beneath the light. She started to read. Her voice was smooth, melodic. He enjoyed the sound. When he found himself staring at her lips, he had trouble concentrating on the words. Realized from what was on that paper he was going to sign was a way he could force Noelle to be his escort whether she liked it or not. Once the paper was signed and the money exchanged hands, he could pick any woman in the house he wanted. He wanted Noelle. The chosen woman would then be obligated to accompany the man. He had the strong feeling Noelle was never on the first floor. Never risked becoming the woman picked for the job. For some reason this was his lucky day. All the other ladies were gone somewhere.

Nice.

She must have understood the words also. When she held the paper out for him to take, her hand was shaking. Her face went from rose-pink to ash-white. With a quick flourish, he accepted the document then signed. He didn’t believe she had enough courage to denounce the contract.

She wore owl eyes as he began to speak, seeming to sense the direction he was about to take. “When can we leave? I can tell by the look in your eyes, you realize I want you. You know if I pick you, you have no choice. Not escorting me is no option. Although I do understand the bedding is your option.”

She nodded, her eyes downcast, clear she dreaded what was about to happen.

“What binds you to this place so hard that you would so something you dislike? It’s more than evident you would rather remain upstairs with a dust cloth in your delicate hand than have dinner with me.”

With little crinkle lines of distaste around her eyes, she spoke with a clear but resigned voice, “I will change my clothes. I’ve one dress suitable for dinner…”

“…and a play. I’m fascinated. You won’t slip out an upstairs window while I’m waiting for you down here?” he voiced what was on his mind. “If there is…well…” He pinched his nose. “I would go upstairs with you. Or…should I stand beneath your window? Catch you if you slip.”

“While I would rather not be your escort, I would never enjoy breaking my neck. I’m no daredevil. The thought of jumping from a third-floor window leaves my heart raging.” With that said she strode past him. “I will be down in about five minutes. You can leave the fee on the table along with a note as to where you are taking me.”

“You will get your share of the money. Correct?”

“Yes.”

True to Noelle’s word, she returned in five minutes. Dressed in a light blue gown, her eyes turned from aquamarine to a dark turquoise. They were beautiful eyes, expressive in every way. Her tiny reticule matched the color of her dress as did her slippers. It was clear to him that she either came from money or Miss Scarlett kept her girls well decked out. Everything he saw in her pointed to good breeding. What the hell was she doing working in a glorified whorehouse? He had a lot to learn as well as a wealth of questions for this pretty lady who intrigued him.

“Very nice,” he murmured as he took her elbow to escort her from the home. “Believe today is my lucky day. If everyone had not been gone, would you have come down from your convenient hideaway?” The question was a fair one. “I would have never seen your intriguing face or talked to you?”

She ignored his question with a query of her own. “Why do you want me? There are a lot of beautiful girls in the house. All of them would have jumped at the chance to go out with you. So…why?”

The shyness which she first greeted him with seemed to be vanishing. He had hopes by the end of their evening together, she would finally relax. “In case you didn’t notice, you were the only lady I saw.” He didn’t believe the smart move would be to tell her the moment he saw her he knew she would be the woman who was going to escort him, and eventually she would lie in his bed. He didn’t like the look of bewilderment in her eyes. She should realize how beautiful she was.

“You might have waited. I would have told you they would return soon. You could have had the first pick for the evening.”

“I got my first pick.” Meant to change the subject. Needed the conversation to move in a new direction. “What do you like to eat? Are you adventuresome or do you stick to the same fare?” he asked, needing to learn whatever he could about the young lady. Later he would get to a few more intimate questions, such as what brought her to Miss Scarlett’s establishment. That was a query she might balk at.

The little smile she shot him went straight through his heart. He felt as if cupid’s arrow pierced the beating organ, causing it to stop for several beats. She was not as averse to him as he first thought.

“I like all types of food. Have always said I would try anything once. Do you have something in mind that you would enjoy tantalizing our pallets with?” Noelle asked, casting him a sideways glance that was even more endearing than the first one.

“No. Don’t have anything in mind. I’m also willing to try any food or any woman. Love to savor the taste of a fine woman. Wine? Anything you are partial to?” He helped her into the carriage then gave directions. “Surprised there was a cab waiting in the front.”

“The other girls will be arriving soon. They were gone for a shopping spree. We always have cabs waiting beginning this time of night. Around here, every evening but two are busy. Gents come then go on a regular basis. We are all about pleasing the client…”

He leaned forward, bringing her hands into his, “Will Noelle be all about pleasing her customer?” He would have this no other way. Nonetheless, she might not be thinking along the same lines. Was she a true innocent? He meant to discover this truth along with some others.

As they were pulling away, he saw two more vehicles arrive. True to what she said, five women got out of each of them. All were laden with packages. She waved as they passed the girls. To Noelle, he said, “I left a note on the desk telling whoever would see it that you were out with me as well as where we are going.”

“That was likely a prudent choice. They will not be calling down the cavalry to discover your whereabouts,” she agreed as he continued to hold her hands in his. She gave a little tug.

With reluctance he let her go, “You have soft hands.” He realized every time he touched or complimented, she grew more agitated. “Beautiful eyes. Nice plump lips ready to be kissed. Are your breasts plump, the tips rosy?” He loved the slight rose color of her cheeks.

She chose not to respond to his intimate comment. “They would worry about me since I rarely leave in the evenings. I’m always upstairs waiting to help out when one of the ladies needs to change clothing for a night out on the town.”

“Wine?” He decided to go with a less threatening question. “Do you like wine? What type?”

Before Noelle answered, her breath gave a little wobble. She must still be thinking about her breasts. “I prefer a Chardonay. But again, I will try most varieties. Muscato is too sweet for my taste. Do enjoy a good Bordeaux. Anything else?”

He was sitting across from Noelle, studying her. Had thoughts of moving to her side so he could put an arm around her. Keeping her on pins and needles might prove interesting, but he didn’t know if doing so was in his best interest since he realized he wanted a second and possibly a third date with this lovely lady.

She wasn’t relaxed. Her shoulders were stiff. He thought a short massage would do her a world of good. Even though she made it clear she wasn’t an escort, she seemed to understand tonight there was no choice for her. Ah, but she was his escort. “You are well versed in many topics…”

“Food and wine? Who isn’t?” she questioned with a lift of one delicate shoulder. At the movement, his eyes focused on the slight jiggle of her breasts.

“Food and wine,” he agreed, thinking about parts of her he would love to explore, to savor. “You read very well. Your gown is more than suitable for an evening with your favorite beau. Why aren’t you an escort? Wouldn’t you earn more money?” He had the uneasy feeling she was hiding from something or someone. Exposing her might not be beneficial to her life. Under these circumstances, he would continue on his charted course until she gave him a reason to deviate. He would weigh what he discovered for the good of the government or for the good of Noelle. At this juncture he wasn’t certain which was more important. Perhaps with Noelle he would chart his own course.

Across from him, she changed her position, bringing her cloak around her as if she guessed what part of her his gaze was focused. It wasn’t gentlemanly to stare at her the way he did. She scrunched her nose before she answered. “I’m more suited to being a maid.”

Leaning forward, his forearms braced on his legs, he needed to learn more. “What are you afraid of, Noelle?” One more time he clasped her hands in his. He ran his thumb along the underside of her wrist.

 

~ * ~

 

This man, Ryan Alexander, was trouble, double-trouble, triple trouble, to her well-ordered life. She had a plan. To deviate would set her back.

The moment Noelle Kendrick opened the door, she realized this man was someone she’d like to learn more about. His persona intrigued. Before this, she’d never met a man who caught her attention. Sheltered, yes, where she came from there were few men who caught her interest. An escort, she would never be.

Ryan was so tall and broad of shoulder she needed to tilt her chin to see into his eyes. Liked the clear intensity of them. As she moved her gaze lower, she discovered more excellence. His jacket fit him to perfection while the trousers he wore molded to his thighs. He didn’t need padding anywhere. All his muscles were evident with a quick look. She didn’t like staring but she couldn’t seem to help herself. The dark brown of his eyes twinkled with something akin to humor. She wasn’t used to seeing amusement in a man’s face. If she continued her assessment, he would understand what she was doing.

Her brother always looked at her with laughter shining on his entire face. She didn’t want to think about her brother who was somewhere in the Rocky Mountains doing God only knew what; dodging the natives, digging out from under ten-foot-high snow drifts. He wanted to make a home there, in the rugged mountains. Told her he intended to build a dynasty. Thought about mining for silver or gold. Couldn’t decide which.

What did she know? Nothing. When he abandoned her, all she wanted was to disown him. He left her alone with no funds. At the time he sent her home, Jamie didn’t know their ma languished and there da was gone from this earth. Jamie made her leave for Scotland in order to keep her safe from the rugged northwest. He was afraid she wasn’t strong enough to survive. Instead, he sent her into destitution.

Now, this man sitting on the couch in the drawing room was an even bigger threat to her than the Rocky Mountains. In so little time, Ryan twisted all her vows, tying them into knots until her mind was a befuddled mess. After he told her she was the lady he wanted to escort him about town, her knees almost buckled from shock. She wasn’t an escort. She was the upstairs maid. He seemed to think all the women who worked here ushered men to various destinations. Ryan assumed too much.

Now he held her hands within his. From listening to her brother’s lectures, she understood the art of subtle seduction. Jamie always made a point to caution her about overeager men. With each potent pass of his thumbs across her wrists, her body shivered. Heated to a flashpoint. It wasn’t an inferno yet but, in a few seconds, she might go up in flames. She tugged as if that would make him let her go. It didn’t. Brought the palm of her hand so it was flat against his. Reflected.

A slow breath of air struggled into her lungs. Ryan’s fingers slid between hers, latching them in place. “As I said, your hands are soft in contrast to mine.”

His were callused, rough from hard work. “What do you do for a living?” Her curiosity always got her into trouble. She wanted to understand why the calluses. Jamie had calluses from everyday life. This man didn’t look as if he chopped wood or did anything else that would blister his hands.

“Terrify the lady I’m paying to be my companion for the evening. You’ve nothing to fear from me. I don’t intend to hurt you.” His snort of a chuckle brought her gaze back to his dark stare, the day-old stubble on his chin and the potent promise in his eyes.

“I’m not terrified of you,” she told him, but the words weren’t true. Ryan threatened all she held dear, endangering her existence along with her future plans. When she looked into his eyes, she saw herself reflected there. Her virtue was something she needed to guard with diligence. Was never intending to give herself to a man other than her husband.

Once the contract was signed, her fate was written on that single piece of paper. When she came to work for Miss Scarlett, she signed a binding document too. Being a practical girl, she accepted the fact that tonight she would accompany him…Ryan…he told her his name was Ryan. She would be his companion for the evening.

Before this went too far, she needed to get the one major fact out there for Ryan to understand. “I’m not going to sleep with you,” she blurted while they were still in the carriage heading to the restaurant. She flushed hot and fast. Breathed in the musky scent of the carriage, then the man sitting opposite. The steady clip-clop of the horses’ hooves on the cobblestones had a reassuring cadence, melding with the beat of her heart. She didn’t understand why she brought up a topic that was distasteful. Maybe because the sight of him sent shivering pulses of never before felt energy into strange parts of her body. Possibly because his fingers entwined with hers seemed to send little whimpers from her lips.

Ryan sent her a look of puzzlement. As if he didn’t understand what she meant. “Hmm…” His fingers tightened on hers. “Did I miss something? Have I asked you to grace my bed?” Ryan questioned, his voice a sultry purr, eyebrows forming a flat line above his expressive eyes. By his questions, he put her on the defensive. Needed to backpedal. She did have the habit of sticking her foot in her mouth. Jamie called her problem “foot in mouth disease.” Here, she did it again.

The heat of embarrassment climbed to her face, hotter than before. She set her hands on her broiling cheeks to cool. Ryan was right. She had assumed something that had not been spoken.

“I’m sorry. No…no you didn’t. Yes…maybe…you said you wanted to be my first. Isn’t that…?” she didn’t know where to go with that question. “It’s just that…I’m nervous.” Finding herself at a loss for words, she turned to look out the window. The rain was dying down as was the wind. The scents of the city bombarded her nostrils. So many people were moving into the cities looking for work. The slums were growing. She much preferred the smell of heather, watching the highland cows, walking in crisp clean air. Closing her eyes, she tried to remember back two years ago when she stepped off the boat in Glasgow.

“Don’t be embarrassed. I might mention something along that line later on this evening. I do have needs…and you are beautiful, sweet, compelling in the most adorable of ways.” Ryan didn’t finish the sentence. His wolfish grin revealed even white teeth along with the little smile lines around his mouth. He tipped his hat back. “It isn’t as if I wouldn’t enjoy sex with my chosen escort. Would enjoy having you in my bed, your long red hair spilling across my pillow Would love to see if you have freckles along the tops of your breasts. Believe I mentioned something to that before we left. I could count them, kiss each one.”

He jumped too fast for her mind to keep up with his thoughts. Ryan really did have this way of moving her along with the speed of thundering horses. She set her hand on her stomach, hoping the pressure would relieve the rolling undulation. He said things, shocking words.

“I don’t have freckles there…on my…” He made her feelings reel out of control. She lost footing. Slipped on the slippery slope he created. Could see him staring at her, picturing what they spoke of…her breasts. “I won’t…” Again, she didn’t wish to finish her thoughts.

Making a little clicking sound with his tongue, Ryan went on to say, “Ah…too bad. You’ve left me without the ability to discover for myself if there are…or there aren’t. Perhaps I won’t take your word for your possible lack of freckles. Do you lie?”

Saved by the slowing of the carriage, she didn’t need to answer. Not that she could think of a proper response. Nothing about this conversation was appropriate. The vehicle rocked as the driver leapt to the ground to open the door then place the steps. Ryan stepped out first then offered his hand to ease her way to the ground.

A blast of cold air hit them. She sipped in frigid cold while he pulled her close as if to protect, shield her against the elements. He settled her cloak around her shoulders. “Blasted weather,” he murmured, his husky voice so close to her ear she felt his breath against her neck. Thought she felt moisture behind her ear. “Never can tell what it’s going to decide to do.” In a caring gesture, Ryan brought the hood of her cape to cover her head.

“It’s alright. I’m used to foul weather.” She remembered the freezing snow-filled nights where she lived before her brother sent her packing. Sent her back to the highlands to live with her mother. A mother who wasn’t going to live long enough for her to get established. She lost the small home she grew up in because she didn’t have funds to pay rent to their landlord. Without her da, the crops all died. They had no income. She moved to the city. Found employment at Miss Scarlett’s, received a roof over her head along with food to fill her belly. The decision had been the only one she could make. She’d had no other choices except living on the streets with the homeless.

“You are?” Ryan asked as if he wished to learn more. With his hands settled on her shoulders, he stood in front of her for a few seconds. “I would have never guessed. Foul weather you say? Where were you living? I suppose most of us would rather see sunny days than nights where the snow falls nonstop. Where was this nasty weather you were forced to endure? Tell me more about you.” Was he interested or just making idle conversation.

Taking her elbow in hand and before she could respond, he escorted her into the Harmonic Concert Rooms & Tavern. The tavern bustled with people. The scent of warm fresh baked bread wrapped around her as her stomach let out a rumble of discontent. With his hand raised to beckon a server, one approached.

His polite smile could charm the socks off her. He spoke, “If you have one, a table in the back, please. We, the lady and I, would like a bit of privacy for our evening meal. We have a wealth of topics to explore. Some intimate. Some not so much. Need to learn as much about the lady as possible. Need to know where to begin…”

Where to begin what?

The tavern was busy and filled with noise this evening. She hoped there would be no table in the back. Needed to feel as if the whole world was close by, listening to every word, watching. Ryan might not care. Possibly he was asking for a table away from the noise for her benefit. So, she wouldn’t feel embarrassment when he posed questions that left her speechless. She didn’t know. Had never been with a man, other than her brother, before tonight.

Privacy with this man was dangerous. Lucky, she was not. She understood the reality of bad luck when the server brought them to a table in the back of the room. They would be alone. Except when their food was delivered, there was no one in the vicinity. A romantic candle sitting in the middle of the table cast a few shadows. From the nearby window, moonbeams continued the romantic ambiance. Romance was not in her head. She just wanted this job to be done then over with.

“Is this satisfactory?” he asked as he gestured with his hand. The man set menus on the table then pulled out a chair for her. “Would you also like to see the wine menu?” He stood back with an appreciative smile on his face.

“Yes.” Ryan smiled at her. Well, his wishes had been granted. What was next on his agenda she didn’t know. He wouldn’t seduce her further even though there were no people close. Would he? She didn’t think she could count on any of her wishes being fulfilled.

They were quiet, isolated. The closest table was around a corner. It was as if he ordered this spot before they arrived. Possibly, no that would not have been imaginable. Her gaze traveled to meet his eyes then back to the table, her heart speeding with excitement, coupled with fear.

“What would you like? Look at the wine list first. We’ll get a bottle of your choice.” He sat back, giving her as long as she needed to study the selections. It had been a long time since she was in a fashionable restaurant. When they first arrived in New York on their way west, Jamie treated her to a dinner at one of the city’s finest. They ate oysters on the half shell then steak cooked to perfection. Little baby peas rolled around on her plate along with a huge baked potato smothered with butter. The wine was a Chianti. They took the train as far west as it would go. After that they traveled by stagecoach then horse and wagon.

Her hands shaking, she picked up the menu. Went over the words without being able to read them. Thought of what might happen when dinner was finished. His leg brushed against hers. Traveled back and forth. Handed the list to him. “You choose. Can’t seem to concentrate.”

The food was ordered and the Chardonnay delivered. The server poured wine into their glasses then left. They were alone with their thoughts. Her throat dry, she didn’t want to talk. Here she was way out of her element. The constant pressure of his leg against hers sent ribbons of pleasure around her along with confusion. Ryan didn’t seem to be affected; his expression bland. She’d give just about anything to learn what he was thinking.

“You said you were used to foul weather. You never said where you lived. May I be so bold as to ask again?” Ryan asked as he sat back then crossed his arms over his chest. His feet were between hers, pressuring. She tried to change position. He blocked her efforts. She tried to think. Seemed he was hindering that effort too.

Looking at him over the rim of her glass then twirling the wine gave her time to reflect, her mind bounding in too many directions. How much truth should she tell him? In this situation did truth matter? All he wanted from her was a short-term relationship. Tonight, maybe another…what did it matter how much he knew about her? Obvious that tonight he wanted her in the most intimate ways; she needed to stay strong. Gulping air, she steeled herself against the continuous seduction.

“True, I never said. A long time ago I lived in the Rocky Mountains with my brother. Stayed there with him for several years. He sent me home because of the inherent dangers.” As his hand settled on her leg, she whimpered, her body craving things she didn’t understand. “Never wanted me to travel with him. Told me I was a stubborn little thing.”

Ryan’s lips curled into another wolf-smile. He clicked his tongue as his hand squeezed. “Snows real hard there, does it?”

“Some…” She swallowed a sip of wine. The drop caught in her throat. A few seconds passed before she could breathe again, “Sometimes the…the drifts would get as high as the roof of our cabin.” She tugged in more air. “When that happened, we wouldn’t be able to leave. Jamie always has a good supply of firewood inside the cabin.” Feeling a little bit closer to normal, she drank more wine. While she didn’t appreciate the frigid temperatures, she liked everything else about the mountains. She felt some nostalgia thinking about those days. They were far from carefree but she felt a purpose in her life. Now there was nothing. As far as she could tell there was no future waiting for her.

“How long did you live in the mountains and why did you come home? If I’m hearing between the words, it sounds as if you wished you could have stayed with your brother. Did you have a beau?” he asked, as he reached across the table to spill more wine into her glass.

It wouldn’t take much to get her tipsy. She needed food in her stomach before she drank any more. Her shoulders lifted in a feeble attempt to shrug. “I was there for two years. For my return trip, he took me as far east as he could go to reach the tracks then put me in a train to New York. Haven’t heard from him or seen him since.” Felt tell-tale moisture forming in the back of her throat. They needed to discover a new direction for their conversation. She didn’t want to cry in front of this man she barely knew. Their food arrived. They would need to talk between bites.

“You miss the lad…older or younger?” He seemed genuinely interested. Concerned when he saw the water in her eyes. Ryan set the tip of his finger beneath her eye to catch a liquid drop leaking to slide down her cheek.

She brushed at the tears. “Don’t mind me. Older. His name is Jamie. He could be dead for all I know.” Even to her ears she sounded bitter. “Sent me back to the highlands. Ma passed two weeks after I got home. Da had been gone for over a year. I was alone. There, that’s enough of my sob story. Tell me something about you. I did ask you what you did to make enough money you can buy a woman’s time. This night out with me isn’t cheap.”

At his look of concern, she knew she told him more than she wanted. Pity was something she never sought. This was her lot in life. She held a good job. Miss Scarlett paid her with room and board as well as an additional stipend for necessaries. She understood she would make more money if she escorted. Didn’t want or need the pressure some of the men used to get their nightly companion into their bed. Tonight, she would triple her normal salary. Would put the extra groats in the jar where she was saving money to return to her brother. Needed family around her. Wanted to learn if Jamie was alive. There was nothing left in Scotland for her.

The meal sat in front of her. Her stomach seemed to be tied in knots. The ensuing conversation didn’t reveal anything more of her life or his. Ryan remained mute about his employment as well as his past. Anything she asked was met with a question sending them in a different direction. He no longer seduced. Appeared he was thinking.

They ate then finished the bottle of wine. With the mention of her brother, along with her mother’s death, the conversation lagged to a near standstill. He didn’t seem to have the need to pressure her with more questions. Either that or he recognized her distress.

When they stood on Miss Scarlett’s front porch, he lifted her chin. For a few fast seconds she thought he was going to kiss her. Instead, Ryan ran his thumb across her bottom lip. “I do want to see you again…soon. Would tomorrow afternoon be too soon to go out for a second time? I noticed you were uncomfortable talking about Jamie. Wasn’t certain about further topics. If the weather isn’t blustery, we could go on a picnic or take a drive into the country. We could find a restaurant on the Firth of Clyde where we can watch the wild weather which will probably be stormy tomorrow. What do you think? Does anything appeal to you?” he asked with that wolf-grin of his. She felt as if he meant to devour her…all of her.

“If you come here then ask for me it doesn’t make a bit of difference if it’s too soon. You do realize I don’t have the right of refusal except when sex is involved.” She cringed, thinking this man was intent on sex. He was going to see her again. She didn’t understand the reasons. “Why? I know you want more than I’m willing to give. Why not ask for one of the other girls? One of the ladies who would like to be in your arms as well as your bed?”

“Don’t want another girl. Only want you in my bed,” he murmured, then turned her to face the door. “Do I need to go inside. Someone is going to want to make certain you are safe and sound. I never answered the interview questions you told me were necessary in order to be a client.”

“No, you didn’t. We just up and left. There was no one around to stop you.”

“Seemed I got away with something. Don’t want you to get into trouble for not abiding by all the rules.” With gentleness that belied the innate power of the man, he brushed some of the tiny streamers framing her face behind her ears. While he waited for her response, he placed a soft kiss on the tip of her nose.

“Yes, since we left before the rest arrived, you do need to talk to Annie. She runs the place whenever Miss Letty isn’t here which is most of the time. She will wish for you to answer her questions. If you mean to ask for me tomorrow, it might be better to take the necessary time tonight to finish the interview.”

“Why do you call her Letty?” With his hand at the small of her back, Ryan guided her inside then helped her remove her wrap. For some reason she couldn’t describe, she wished they had more time together. The only way that would happen would be if she went home with him. The thought blasted into her head so fast she gasped for air. Tried to dismiss the notion just as fast.

She concentrated on his question. “Oh…it all started with Lord Munroe, her husband. He thought Scarlett was too big a mouthful for the little bit that she is. Only, she isn’t really little. She is very tall. It’s just that her husband is head and shoulders taller. To his way of thinking she was a little bit. Bobby started calling her Letty. The name stuck.”

“You are Ryan Alexander?” A tall brunette with startling blue eyes stepped up to him. “I need to have a few minutes with you. Appears you took Noelle out without all the required questions asked and answered. That doesn’t put you in good standing here. If you wish to see Noelle again or any of the other ladies, we need to change that fact.”

Ryan grinned then held out his hand. Annie accepted it within her own. “And…you must be Annie. I enjoyed Miss Noelle’s company. She is a delight. Have no interest in any other woman. Wish to see her again tomorrow afternoon around twelve. So, I do wish to pass all the requirements…rules set down by the house to keep your ladies safe and sound. I agree with all that you do.”

“Yes. Believe we do need to talk. I’m pleased Noelle decided to escort a man. Hoping she will continue in that vein. Follow me.” To Noelle she said. “You are finished with your obligations to this man for the evening. Go ahead and go upstairs or to the drawing room.”

Ryan touched her shoulder before he followed Annie, “I will see you tomorrow just after midday.”

“Tomorrow,” she murmured as she heard laughter coming from the drawing room. Not knowing if she wished to talk to the other girls, she hesitated. They would have a wealth of questions for her, comments too, maybe advice. Didn’t know if she was ready to answer. Never been on this side of the conversations before.

Tonight, or in the morning, the timeframe didn’t matter. The ladies would have questions to ask and she would need to respond. They would be curious.

For a few breath stealing seconds, she stood in the doorway to the drawing room. At first no one seemed to notice. Three women sat in the room, talking, drinking wine. They were dressed in lingerie, breasts spilling free from their confines, oblivious to the fact there might be more gentlemen callers. Because they were downstairs, their robes somewhat covered them in strategic places. Didn’t matter to them that their legs were bare or that their bosoms could be ogled with ease. They flaunted their feminine endowments, hoping for clients. Clients meant money.

“Would you like a glass of wine?” Caitlyn offered as she splashed some red into a glass before she could respond. “Here you go. Drink up. We saw you leave then return. We’ve got lots of questions for the upstairs maid.”

“Did you have fun?” Bella asked as she leaned back on the sofa, relaxed. “It was your first outing with a man. I’m glad you decided to join our ranks. You will make ever so much more money. If you sleep with him, you will double your profits.”

Did she have fun? Double my profits? I’ve already tripled them. That was something she wasn’t certain about. Some of the conversation was entertaining. His seduction was unexpected and new to her. “Double my profits?” she repeated feeling dazed. She didn’t realize she would make that much more. Didn’t make a difference. She hoped to save herself for her husband. Understood all along if she became an escort, it was just a matter of time before some bold man took her virtue.

“Yes, you know, double the fun, double the money,” Sammy added her two cents worth of advice then laughed. “You were back early. I’m guessing there was no bed, naked bodies, sweating, flashpoints reached in this equation.”

Bed, naked bodies, sweating? Flashpoints? Double the money she’d already tripled?

“Don’t forget grunting and yelling then add in a few soft moans along the way, then a whimper here and there.”

Grunting and yelling? Moans? Whimpers?

“Don’t scare her. We all understand Noelle is innocent. She has told us escorting men wasn’t something she wanted to do. Your man must have been impatient. Didn’t want to wait until the rest of us returned. He took the only available lady.”

She plopped down on one of the large chairs by the fire. Didn’t like thinking he picked her because she was his only choice. She did have some pride. “You’re right. No one was home,” she mumbled as she sipped the wine. “I came downstairs to let him in. From that point on I knew I was doomed.” Why did she still feel doomed? He was no longer staring at her with those big brown eyes of his.

“Ah…I understand,” Caitlyn said as she adjusted then readjusted her gown so the fabric artfully showed off her breasts. A cab stopped in front of the house. Two men walked to the porch. “When he stood on the porch, you had to open the door. He saw you, wanted you. In this there is no choice.” She nodded to the front door. “What about those two men? Do you wish to go with one of them? Ah, Torra is getting the door. She will take them to Annie. Neither is a regular here.”

“No!” Thinking about blending into the shadows, she moved away from immediate sight. “Ryan.” She licked her dry lips, “He told me he wanted to see if I had freckles on the tops of my breasts. Said he would like to kiss them…” Reliving their conversation… “I?” She shouldn’t be so bold to share that little bit of conversation.

“Did you tell him there is not one freckle on all of your peaches and cream flesh?” Bella asked adding a little cackle at the end of her statement. “You, my dear, are a true prize. You must hold out for the best man possible. Stick to your principles. Don’t succumb to a man’s sweet talking. Could get you into trouble. Don’t be a bricky lass.”

“I don’t know, lookin’ at your man is like wishes for bacon on butter. Will he be back?” Sammy asked as she refilled her empty glass. “If he keeps coming to see you, you could always have him rent the house across the street for a night of privacy.”

The house across the street…? A night of privacy? The thought made her hands shake. The little bungalow belonged to Miss Letty. Sometimes it was convenient to rent it if the man didn’t want to bring the lady to his house. She didn’t intend to dwell on that fact. Annie would tell him about the cottage.

“Tomorrow.” She didn’t know when she drank the entire glass of wine. “He wants to spend the entire afternoon with me. What do we do for the whole day?” In her mind, she ran over different possibilities.

“Your Ryan will make this adventure go into the night if you allow him. If you don’t want to lose that treasured virginity of yours, you will not go home with that man or…let him take you to a hotel…or the house across the street…or anywhere else.”

“I don’t think you’re right. Ryan didn’t even kiss me. He must not want me that way. He just wanted to see if I had any freckles.” Lying was not part of her nature. She was thinking of his leg brushing hers beneath the table then his hand on her thigh. “He held my hand. Threaded his fingers between mine. That’s all.” The gesture was the most sensual of her life.

“Ach, a real daredevil that one,” Caitlyn said as she snorted a laugh. “Maybe your Ryan is a virgin too? Anything is possible. Couldn’t be. He has such a wolfish look about him. When his gaze was rakin’ over you, he looked as if he wanted to eat you all up. Consume every feminine part of you. Savor. Devour. Believe you’re both lying to yourself and us.”

“What do you think of Ryan Alexander? Could you lie down next to him? Naked?” This from Bella. Bella waved her hand in the air then covered her mouth as if she didn’t want to spit her wine out with her snort of laughter. “Mark my words, that man is no virgin. He knows his way around a woman.” She sipped again. “He will pleasure you until you scream out his name.” She picked up a piece of cheese to point it her way. “Will you gift that man with your virginity? Wonder if Miss Letty has a price for that too. Don’t know if she’s ever had a girl here who was a virgin.”

“Except for her. Rumor has it that Letty was a virgin when Lord Munroe came a courtin’ her,” Caitlyn said while she nodded to give emphasis to her words. “She wasn’t. Had a bad span of time in her life. Those bad days were the reason why she started up this house. Don’t you ever doubt that fact. Bobby was a smooth talker that one. He knows how to charm a woman so fast she can’t think of the word no. That he was. Still is if you ask me. The lord of the realm knows the underworld along with all their going ons. Just like your Mr. Alexander, he understood how to tempt then take away. Had her breathin’ hard every time he left her at the doorstep. Miss Letty didn’t know if she was comin’ from the outing or going on another adventure with her beau.”

With a half-grin Bella nodded her agreement. “That’s the way you looked when you stepped through that door. Breathin’ hard. Your breasts heavin’. Bet he did more than hold your hand. Men have this way of seducing a woman out of her pantaletes before she knows what is happening to her.”

“Did he?” Sammy asked. “Did he do more than hold your hand?”

“Tell us,” Both Bella and Caitlyn implored, clapping their hands together. “We can help you resist or tell you how to keep from conceiving if he takes your virginity. It’s all up to you. Whatever you decide you’ve got to stick to your guns.”

Now they were circling with more information than she knew what do with. “Conceiving? As in getting with child? A baby?” She felt her eyes widening to saucers while her mouth gaped open.

“Close that mouth of yours, sweet. If you don’t, you might catch a fly…or a gnat. Bugs…not too delicious. Yes, we’re talking about babies. Just because the man gifts you with his seed, doesn’t mean there must be a baby that comes from the happening. There are ways to keep that from occurring. We can tell you all about how to do that…not conceive.”

“Your pretty eyes are as round as an owl’s, your cheeks redder than a beet. There are ways, though none are foolproof. We can show you how to use sponges or you can ask your man to withdraw? Though most men don’t like that idea. They want to be inside you when they explode.”

Explode?

Her mind was bewildered. “Sponges? Withdraw? Explode?” she asked, realizing these ladies would tell her anything she asked.

“Do you think you’ll need this knowledge tomorrow?” Bella asked. “I can guarantee you that your man will not look kindly on taking himself out of the heat of your body. In the morning, we can help you with a sponge then give you a few. To be the safest you need to use one each time.”

Each time? There would be more than one time?

Way over her head, she sucked in a deep breath of air. Smoothed the folds of her gown while she thought about all the strange feelings coursing through her this evening. “I’ve no idea what any of you are talking about.”

Sammy elbowed Bella. “See, she dinna know nothing. Noelle is a true innocent.” Sammy leaned toward her. “You ever seen a naked man? I’m sure she doesn’t even know how her Ryan is going to give her a good poke with his steel-hard rod.”

 

~ * ~

 

“You want to go into the city?” Bobby questioned Letty. “I don’t see why. What can we do there that we can’t do here? In the country everyone is calm. Life is tranquil. We can go for walks without seeing another soul.” He pulled Letty into his arms, hoping she would forget the request. With all his heart, he disliked the city. If he showed up, he would find himself hounded with requests. His ties to the underworld would never vanish. There would be meetings with both sides. He was retired as well as pardoned from his previous life of crime. Never wished to revisit it.

“In case you’ve forgotten, I’ve a business there…a thriving business. Annie sent a note this morning requesting my presence.” He nibbled kisses along her neck, sucking when he reached certain sensitive places.

“Whatever for? Annie can run the place with her eyes closed. She’s—”

Letty set her finger on his lips before stepping back. “Hush…”

The gesture, while it was meant to stop the diatribe that was coming, backfired. He held it there while he slipped his tongue on the sensitive tip. Nipped. Felt her shudder. She was just as hungry for him as he was for her. “We could take this back to our bed or….” His hand circled her waist, tugging her so close he knew she would feel the evidence of his burgeoning need. He would do just about anything to make Letty happy. Traveling to the city would always be a last resort.

“We aren’t going to do any such thing,” Letty spoke up before he could suggest the desk behind her. “As we speak, our bags are being packed. Enough for a week. Cook is packing a lunch for us to eat on our way.”

Bobby couldn’t stop the low groan rumbling from his mouth. He pinched the bridge of his nose. “See you’re serious. What problem has you so worried you’re going to race off to the city? Tell me and possibly I can help. If we solve this issue, can we stay here? You could write the solution down in a message to Annie.”

“It’s the upstairs maid. Seems she’s in over her head. Not just Annie but all the girls are concerned. Annie tells me the man she has stepped out with is a rogue. A bit like you were back in the day,” Letty snorted a chuckle when he frowned.

“The upstairs maid doesn’t escort anyone. At least that’s the idea of working upstairs. She doesn’t see men.”

“She does now. Seems she was the only lady in the house when Ryan Alexander arrived. He wanted her. No one else would do. Refused to wait until the other ladies returned from a shopping spree so he could have his pick. Now he’s going to see her again this afternoon. Has the day planned out. Since she works for an escort service, nothing needs to be proper. Does that also sound like someone else we know?”

He chose to ignore the little dig. He wasn’t proper when he courted Letty. Never would be proper. Grew up in the bowels of London picking pockets among other notorious crimes. Never got caught. Came close a few times but he had the fastest fingers as well as the fastest feet of anyone chasing him. “Ryan Alexander…?” He tapped his chin while he thought. “Why does that name sound so familiar? I should know it.” The hairs on the back of his neck bristled, a sure sign he needed to take care. Knew that feeling from his days running wild in St. Giles Parish, St. James Street in London.

“Is there something wrong?” Letty stood beside him looking concerned.

“It’s a strong possibility. If I think long and hard, I might figure out the puzzle.” As if it would help, he rubbed the back of his neck. All he found was a blank slate. Turned his attention to another tiny matter. “The children?”

“They are going to stay here. The nanny will make certain they have all they need. This is not a planned vacation. We’ll be gone less than a week. None of them would be happy in the city. They like the city less than you do,” Letty said with a soft sigh. She stepped back, shaking her finger at him. “You are not to take privileges in the carriage. I don’t want to arrive there looking as if you’ve—”

“Had sex with my beautiful wife?” he queried, lifting a dark brow to the sky. “What an intoxicating idea. I’m glad you thought that far ahead. What better way to spend the two-hour drive to the city than making love to my adorable wife?”

“You will not…” Letty was shaking her head, the pretty curls around her face bobbing. “You will…not.”

“Stop me?” he asked, as he recalled other times in the carriage, her bared breasts bouncing as the vehicle trundled along. “How would you stop me? No…sex in the carriage or we don’t go at all. We are thinking about a third child. Are we not? He or she could learn how they were conceived. The conception would be quite the story. We could talk about it over the dinner table or…”

“You are outrageous. Incorrigible.”

“But…you love me anyway. By the way, thanks to you, I now know what that word means. When do we leave?”

“As soon as a noon lunch is packed. There is no way we will arrive before little Noelle leaves with Mr. Alexander for their second outing. There will be no chance for me to impart any advice. Last night some of girls teased her until her blush was the color of ripe tomatoes.”

“Little Noelle?” he questioned. “I remember her. No wonder you are concerned. As soon as we arrive, I’ll put out some feelers to see what I can learn about Mr. Alexander. Want to learn if he’s on the up-and-up or if he’s living on the shadier side of the law. If that’s the case, we can put a stop to this courtship. Nip it in the bud.” Ah, that word reminded him of Letty’s tight rosy buds. His mouth watered just thinking about tasting them.