Chapter One

1821

 

Standing atop the base of the lamppost, Larena Graham strained to see over the heads of the milling people while trying to shimmy higher. People in the streets protesting repression by the English government notarized this day. The citizens, in Larena’s mind, had every right to want more from their government. They weren’t asking for something they didn’t work for or deserve. The citizens were proud and honorable people.

Over the years since the Napoleonic wars, food prices soared and wages fell. Fewer jobs existed because of industrialization and heads of families found it difficult to feed their children. All this seemed to be ignored by parliament.

“What do you see up there?” Tyna, Larena’s friend, asked, peering up at her, one hand shielding her eyes from the setting sun. “It’s got to be very interesting to have you so focused. I don’t think you’ve moved a single muscle since you’ve been up there.”

“Soldiers are lining up with guns pointing at the protestors. Give me a boost higher,” Larena said, wishing either she was taller or the lamppost was easier to climb. “I can’t see very much.”

For a moment she was pushed higher. Without warning, the friendly hands disappeared and she found herself hauled from the post and into hostile masculine arms. She struggled against the force taking her away from her vantage point.

“Put me down. You’ve no right to be so upper handed,” Larena said, furiously trying to punch the horrible man, hitting only air.

“Little fool, what are you doing here? You’re coming with me.” Gavin Broon wrapped his arms tightly around her and pushed her through the rapidly growing crowds to a doorway. “You take chances with your life, and I won’t have you doing that.” His brows furrowed together, his eyes dark with emotion.

Bumped and battered from all sides by the throngs of bystanders, “No,” she protested, struggling against him. She pushed at his arms yet they didn’t budge from around her waist. “You… you can’t leave me for weeks then show up one day telling me what I can and can’t do.”

Crowds swarmed past her. Somewhere shots were fired and screams filled the air. “Little fool,” he bit out again with a hot whisper close to her ear, sending shivers into her body. “What the bloody hell were you thinking? You could be shot or hurt by the stampeding masses of people.”

“These individuals have a right to be heard. Those laws keeping them earning a decent living should be repealed and you know it. Only the wealthy who want to make more and more money at everyone’s expense are for that law. They don’t care about the citizens and their wellbeing. What do you believe? What do you stand for? I’ve a right to know.”

“Are you finished?” Gavin asked, sounding exasperated and frustrated. It seemed he was totally out of patience. “You know what I think. I’ve never kept secrets from you.”

“Do you want to hear more?” Larena didn’t care how impatient he was and no, she didn’t know what he thought. She had the right to her own pursuits of knowledge. She wanted to make a difference in the world. This was her chance.

“I’m sure you could recite all the laws and acts that have been passed since the Napoleonic wars, but we have something more pressing to do right now.” His hands tightened around her, sending strange evocative sensations through her.

“What could be more important than the pursuit of free speech?” She still meant to protest his Neanderthal behavior, but she was fresh out of new arguments, at least ones she thought he might listen to.

“The extenuation of your life,” he whispered close to her ear, sending more curious shivers within. She remembered their first kiss, but this was far more provocative and mercuric, causing heat and chills to sweep through her all at the same time.

Up two steps to a small protective space, Gavin stopped, turning her. His lips descended on hers while he ran his fingers through her hair, pins clattering to the earth below. Then with his hands around her waist, he pulled her close, trailing his hands up her ribcage, stopping below her breasts.

Then his large hands framed her face as he kissed her, using his tongue and his teeth to punctuate his caresses with more passion than he’d ever kissed her with before. He stopped to look at her, the steel glint of his blue-gray eyes searing her. An inferno simmered deep inside, a sensation she fought to deny. As much as she loved the kiss, had even yearned for it, she didn’t want to give into his mandates, and she was afraid that was exactly what she was doing here.

Her breaths came in short bouts, her blood pulsing heatedly. She brought her hand up to slap him. “How…”

He easily caught her wrist and brought it down, holding it tight against his chest where she felt the thundering of his heart. “How dare I?” he finished her sentence for her. “Where your safety is concerned, milady, I will dare anything. You have pushed past the limitations of my patience. The last thing I want for you is to see you on the gallows, a prison ship or in Newgate.”

His huge body blocked her view to the boulevard. Yet she was sure chaos seemed to encompass the street. Shouts and cries of pain reverberated through the narrow thoroughfare. In this tiny alcove they were secure for the moment.

“My safety was not in jeopardy until you showed up,” she objected, struggling slightly in protest yet understanding he held the upper hand in this matter with his brute strength. “What is happening out there? I need to see.” She squirmed to look around him, but it seemed he drew her closer.

As if to deny her statement, his mouth descended upon hers again, his hand on her derrière pulled her flush with his body.

He pulled her shirt from the waistband of her skirt, his hand rising against her back until his fingers found bare skin. “You should not be here,” he whispered, his warm breath caressing her cheek.

It seemed at the moment he had no control, but she had longed for this for months now and she didn’t want him to stop. Still, she objected. “Where I am is not your con—”

Stopping her protest, his mouth met hers again, his tongue drawing a line across her lips. Once more she tried to speak. When she opened her mouth, he filled hers with his tongue. A tiny squeak emanated from her as she wilted into him, wishing she didn’t make this so easy. Too many months had passed since she felt the heat of his kisses. She’d thought he forgot about her. She braced herself, her hands against his chest in a feeble attempt to push him away. Something she hoped she couldn’t accomplish.

He kissed her again and again, her lips swelling from the intense actions. She clung to his shoulders, barely able to stand and still his lips remained on hers, enticing and seducing in every way.

“Master Broon, you and your lady friend shouldn’t be here.” The voice seemed to echo around her in a hazy void.

Gavin turned, keeping her behind him and pressing her against the door. “Constable. Sorry, I got carried away for a moment. She’s a fetching piece, don’t you think? We’ll be going on our way as soon as you tell us it’s safe. Too many people running around on the street at the moment.”

“It’s safe now, won’t be in another few minutes. This gathering is getting out of hand. We have orders to arrest everyone involved. You and your lady friend need to leave before it’s too late. Find a place that’s a bit more private for what you’re doing.”

Gavin cleared his throat. “As you can see, we are not involved in the protests. My little sweetheart and I just want to find a way out of here so we can be alone. My office is a block from here. Could you see us there?”

“Fetching piece, little sweetheart,” she repeated, hitting him on his back, furious with his audacity even though that was almost what she wanted to be. “I’m not your lady friend or anything else.”

Over his shoulder he stared at her, once more his glare shook her to the core. “Pretend.”

“I’d be happy to help you,” the constable said. “Follow me.” He set off for Gavin’s office at a quick pace.

“I don’t want to go.” She held back, refusing to move her feet to help him with this pretense. She was not going to pretend to be his whore even if it meant her safety.

“You want to see the inside of Newgate prison? If you don’t move your feet, I’ll carry you.” His calm voice resonated, gave her chills of foreboding.

“Of course not. I would never get arrested and if I did, Aunty would call in some favors,” Still she fought him, denying his words as well as his threats.

“Best you hurry,” the man said. “The soldiers are heading this way. It’s not the time to dally. If the two of you are having a lover’s spat, wait till you’re safe and sound,” he chuckled.

“Don’t push this any farther, Larena. If you make me, I’ll haul you over my shoulder.”

As if to give credence to his relationship with her, he wrapped his arm around her shoulder, letting his fingers rest over one breast. She inhaled a swift deep breath. “Gavin.” She recalled The Duchess’ words. Kisses are fine but anything else you need to tell him no. This, she supposed, was something else.

“Behave yourself then.”

For a minute or two she feigned compliance. When she saw a small escape route, she jerked out of his arms. Freedom was close; she ran two steps before she found herself caught and unceremoniously slung over his shoulder. “No,” she pounded him on the back, trying to wiggle herself from his shoulder. “You can’t do this to me. I don’t want to go with you.”

His hand came down possessively on her rear and stayed there, his fingers moving on her as if he claimed her. “I already have done this to you, and while I would normally indulge you in anything you want, I can’t tolerate this defiance to the law.”

“Hurry up,” the constable encouraged. “You’re almost there. You and your lady friend will be nice and safe at your office until it’s all over. It won’t be long before everyone is put in the wagons the soldiers have brought. You don’t want to be rounded up with the hoards.”

“What’s going to happen to these folks?” Gavin asked pleasantly, waving his arm, indicating those who were racing through the street. “Will they be released?”

“The wagons are lined up and ready to take everyone who doesn’t get away to jail. They’ll be tried and sentenced.” The constable seemed eager to get them away from the crowds.

“What then?” Gavin continued with his questioning, seeming to need to make a point that was directed at her.

Larena was sure Gavin knew the answer. He was asking for her benefit, but she wasn’t about to listen. Hanging head down she closed her eyes and tried to close her ears as well.

“Off to a penal colony, either Australia or Tasmania,” he told them as if that was an everyday occurrence.

She gulped air, telling herself the lack of oxygen was due to her lungs pressed against his shoulder. Were the two of them in cahoots? She knew he would do anything to convince her he was always right.

“Long time to spend in the bowls of a ship with little food or water and nowhere to relieve yourself. Are the women raped?” Gavin queried.

“Horrible trip, I’ve heard. The pretty ones don’t fare very well. Here you go.” Seemingly intrigued, he stared at her as she lifted her head high enough to see where they were.

“Thanks, you’re help is much appreciated.” Not setting her on her feet, Gavin stepped into the building and taking the stairs two at a time, made his way upstairs to his rooms above the office.

“Put me down,” she bit out, furious with him and unwilling to let him dictate her life. “I can’t breathe.”

“You should have thought about that before you tried to run into more trouble.” Ignoring her, he strode through the rooms upstairs. She saw what looked like a sitting room, but he didn’t stop there. Instead, he strode into a separate room and before she could take another breath, she landed on a bed.

He came down beside her, his hand resting domineeringly on her stomach. “Did you hear what the man said?” The frigid glint of his eyes and voice chilled her. She’d never seen him like this.

She tried to scoot to a sitting position, but his body weight stopped her. “I didn’t listen to him, so no.” He had taken liberties she didn’t know yet if she wanted to give him. His absence from her life had shaken her confidence, and now he suddenly reappeared. A stubborn streak settled in, and she knew she would not agree with him just on principle.

His eyes shimmered his mouth drawn thin. “I worry about you.” He gently pushed tangled hair from her face. “You’re too beautiful. I don’t want anything to happen to you, and you do things you shouldn’t. As formidable as she is, The Duchess might not have been able to pull in favors soon enough to get you out of that predicament you were so eager to get yourself into.”

“What do you care? I haven’t even seen you in weeks.” She was determined not to let him touch her heart until he proved himself to her. A few kisses every now and then were not enough incentive for that.

When he looked at her, it seemed he gazed past her. She’d never seen him so severe and hard; unyielding would perhaps be descriptive. This time when his lips found hers, they were gentle yet still demanding a response she was unsure of. This was Gavin and she’d wanted his attention for so long. He was doing this to her, making her want him, ready to give up everything. She steeled herself against his blatant seduction.

And yet…

Gavin touched her in ways she couldn’t fathom. His hands moved on her and a molten inferno of his making rushed through her. His lips and warm moist tongue touched upon her neck and the curve of her shoulder, the line of her collarbone. She shivered in response, creating tiny noises in the back of her throat that he seemed to take pleasure in hearing.

Eyes half-closed, she watched him doing things to her she’d wanted for such a long time. She had given up on him, assuming she didn’t interest him. Six months ago, two months, she would have given all of herself to this man who stole her heart the first moment she looked upon him. Now she held herself back, wishing for things that could have been. She looked to her future now and was unsure he held a place in it.

Coming to her senses and trying desperately to escape the sweet seduction of his lips and tongue where they met her flesh, “No, Gavin, not now. This can’t happen.” She pushed on his shoulders, her eyes wide open now. “You have to stop.”

“This, milady, is our present and our future. In time I will have nothing but your sweet compliance,” he murmured softly, the whisper of his breath against her still seducing. Yet he obeyed her request.

He rose from her, his gaze locked with hers. She would battle him with all her heart and strength. Here in London while he’d been gone, she found a purpose to her life and he must have found something somewhere else. He’d been away for so long.

She sat up, to no avail trying to readjust her clothing and hair. “Gavin?”

Shoulders rigid, he strode into the main sitting room. She heard voices and while she recognized the other man’s voice as Drake Montgomerie, her cousin’s husband, she could not make out anything they said. When she drew closer to the door, she could finally understand some of their words.

“I found her,” Gavin said. “Little hellion that she is, she’s very special to me and I wouldn’t want to see her hurt, her life changed irrevocably. She can’t continue to run free with no guidance.”

Her heart felt as if he slashed it with a knife. Little hellion, that was all he thought of her. For a fleeting moment, she’d believed he cared enough about her to find her. That his concern for her safety was sincere, but obviously she was wrong. He would not find a way into her heart.

Quickly, she set about tucking in her blouse and finding a mirror, trying to put her hair in order. Nothing could be done about her kiss-swollen lips and the total disarray he’d created in her appearance. A lone tear slid from her eye. Furiously, she wiped it away with the back of her hand. Setting her hands on a table in front of the mirror, she drew in a long deep breath in an attempt to settle her nerves.

Drake would surmise what Gavin did to her and how would she explain her appearance to Ella, her cousin? Then she would have to explain to The Duchess what had happened. Clenching her fists, she strode into the room, back as stiff as she could make it, remembering The Duchess’ advice. Men think with their cock. It seemed she was right about Gavin.

Slowly, Drake looked from Gavin to her then back, his gaze held no questions. He knew very well what Gavin had done. She swallowed hard, thinking to stride from his apartment and hail a cab, but she doubted if either man would allow that to happen.

“It’s not what it looks like,” Larena said, still trying to put her blouse into her skirt and unable to meet his gaze.

Gavin strode to her, blocking Drakes view. “You should have looked in the mirror before you presented yourself half naked in the sitting room.” His hands fell upon her blouse, fastening buttons that he’d skillfully undone, sifting his fingers through her hair as if he could replace the pins he removed.

She gasped at his words, looking down and feeling blood rush to her face. “You did this to me.”

His arrogant smile left her breathless. Then he whispered, “I’m certainly glad it was me and not some other scoundrel. You could have told me no and rest assured, I would have stopped.”

“What will he think?” she whispered. She truly didn’t understand herself. Of course Drake would believe the worst, and he would tell Ella who would tell The Duchess. No, Ella would say nothing, but she would undoubtedly have a nice long talk with her.

“I need to get you home. You do know you cannot have anymore contact with these people you’re associating with now.” He ran his finger down her cheek, a strange tender look in his eyes. “You need to stay away from them. They mean you harm and are taking advantage of your naiveté.”

“Says you. I don’t believe for a minute Tyna would ever take advantage of anyone, especially not me.” She challenged him in every way she could think of. Obeying this man was not possible. He had no hold on her life nor did she want him to command her obedience, and she was not naive.

“You will regret it if you disobey. The Duchess, your guardian, would demand the same things.” The silver steel of his eyes sliced through her heart.

It seemed Drake had watched their interchange. “Gavin is right, Larena. There are elements in play here that could be dangerous. We both understand this is not about obedience, it’s about your safety. I’m sure Gavin would never command you do anything you wished unless he was serious about it.”

“Probably not. Where I’m concerned, he sees danger in the sunbeam slanting across a window and the wind blowing a leaf from a tree. At least today he does, tomorrow I won’t see him,” she replied, wondering if she was just being foolish and defying these men because she was angry with Gavin for abandoning her for months.

“Take heed, Larena. This is not a game to be played.” It seemed Gavin couldn’t stop himself from playing the autocrat.

“Whatever you wish,” she said, smiling sweetly. She’d been so bored and frustrated with her life. She’d tried to find something useful to do that would make her feel good about herself. Then she met Tyna, who gave her new purpose and direction.

“Yes,” Drake said, stepping in to the conversation once more. “No one knows for sure what their future will bring, but you dabble in politics you know little about. I don’t understand the argument between the two of you, but both parties should figure out what is really bothering you before it’s too late.”

“I’m not ignorant and I understand the politics. If I were a man, this conversation would not be happening.” She fisted her hands, anger growing inside. Feelings of helplessness swept through her before she pushed them back, just as she tried to push her hair from her face.

“You don’t have all the facts, either,” Gavin said. “Here, let me help.” Somehow he managed with the few pins left in her hair to arrange it so she didn’t look as if she just rose from his bed. “I don’t mean to make you angry, Larena. I care about you.”

“The people of London are incensed and some of them are using you,” Drake told her as he paced the room. “You’ve got to understand the laws and that you must not be seen meeting with these people. That, in itself, could be construed as a crime and condemn you.”

“I don’t believe you. Who is taking advantage of me?” She wanted answers. No one she knew played her. She made all her decisions from facts and what she understood to be right.

“Your friend Tyna, for one,” Drake told her. “She is part of the resistance to the laws that have been voted on by parliament. She not only fights to see the laws repealed but the throne abolished as it was in France. Obviously, the government as well as the monarchy does not want that to happen and will use all its power to see it doesn’t.”

She stiffened, inhaling a quick deep breath at his words. “Tyna wouldn’t do that. She has not expected me to do anything. In fact, she’s counseled against some of my actions.” Yet the girl found her one day when she was riding in the park and befriended her, telling her stories of her childhood and the suffering she’d seen around her. She had believed everything the young woman told her. Suddenly, Larena wasn’t so sure about her new friend.

“All you know about this woman is what she’s told you,” Gavin pointed out, his expression changing to one Larena didn’t understand. “You are innocent and believe in the good of all. She is not who you think she is and yes, she is using you to her own ends as well as her brother’s.”

“I’m not naïve,” she said, realizing in this she most likely was too trusting. Thinking back, she desperately tried to recall everything Tyna said to her, but very little came to mind.

Gavin looked away for a moment, and truly she wanted to know what he was thinking. She could not read his thoughts. What did he know she didn’t, and why wouldn’t he tell her?

“How you think of yourself makes no difference at this point. Your life is at stake here. I need your promise you will stay away from her,” Drake said, seeming to step in where Gavin left off.

Perhaps it was a good thing the request was made by Drake. At this point, if Gavin had asked her to promise this, she would have promptly and without thought said no. Instead she decided to somewhat agree, “I will take your advice under consideration.”

“I’m glad,” Drake said, his hands behind his back, a dark shuttered look on his face.

“I’m supposed to meet her tomorrow for tea. I don’t have any way to contact her. She always sends messages to me.” Her body quivered, wondering if Tyna befriended her so she could gain something from her.

“Where? I’ll see that Addie Winthrop meets the two of you. You can tell Tyna that Addie’s your friend. In a way, she is. You did attend her wedding,” Drake said. His words seemed to give her some encouragement.

“I barely know the woman. What I do know is that she was one of your spies, Drake,” Larena protested. “How will I convince Tyna she’s a friend?” This had taken on a new dimension. “I’m not going to spy for you and she’s there to spy on me, I’ll…”

“What Larena? Dig yourself a hole so deep you can’t climb out?” Gavin spoke up, clearly finding it difficult to control his anger, which he tried to explain away as concern.

Drake broke into the conversation with a heavy sigh, “No one wants you to do that, especially not me. Addie will be there to protect you just as she protected Tavia at her wedding. I’m sure I don’t need to remind you how she used her pistol to shoot the man who meant to murder your cousin. Addie is a good person and a better friend. You couldn’t have a better person at your side.”

“Do I have a choice?” She didn’t believe for one second she needed protection from Tyna. The girl had been honest with her about everything. She’d always told her there was danger in what she did.

“No choice,” Gavin said, “It’s either Addie or myself.”

“I’ll take Addie any day over you,” she said and was cheered for a moment by the slight flicker of insecurity in his eyes then it vanished, replaced by the hard visage she had become used to in the last few hours, realizing suddenly what she saw was not insecurity but annoyance.

He watched her for what seemed an eternity and with a shrug, he said, “Have it your way.”

“You should get her home,” Drake said with a tinge of laughter in his voice. “Do you need help, Gavin?”

“I can handle this one,” Gavin said with a raised eyebrow, seeming to search her for some reason she might have to refuse. His eyes raked her with a careless disdain. A sizzle of mockery touched his eyes then vanished with something seeming a tiny bit softer.

“The Duchess will be waiting. She has important news. I will see both of you later. I hope you work out this problem before you have to speak with Charlotte. Use the time in the cab to hash things out. A united front is always the best course.” Drake turned on a heel and strode from the small apartment.

“Well,” Gavin said, gallantly holding out his arm and smiling as if they were off to a picnic and had not spent the better part of the day at odds with each other.

She marched past him, head held high, her back stiff. There was no way she would talk anything out with the infuriating man.

~ * ~

By the time they hailed a cab and reached The Duchess’ townhouse, the sun had set and streetlights were beginning to light the darkness. Gavin helped her from the cab despite her reluctance. He wished he’d handled the last few hours differently, but Larena had a way of getting under his skin, making him say and do things he didn’t mean.

“Do you know this important news Drake spoke of?” Larena asked before they entered the house, having refused to speak to him for the duration of the ride. She suddenly needed to understand what was about to happen. “I probably should know.”

“Come, she’s expecting us in the parlor.” It seemed both The Duchess and her companion, Scarlett, waited for them. Larena was correct, however, he had ignored her for months but not because he didn’t want to see her and court her properly. He understood the simple fact that he had to reassure her and instill in her a reason to believe in him.

“You’re not going to answer me, are you?” she said, her words clipped.

“The Duchess will respond to all your questions.” He opened the door for her. They walked into the parlor.

“Finally,” The Duchess said, tapping her cane, a plate of lemon bars available on a table. “What held you up? I thought you would be here hours ago.”

“An altercation that couldn’t be avoided,” Gavin chose to reply before Larena could weave a believable story out of falsehoods. Then there was absolute silence while he watched The Duchess rivet her gaze on Larena and back to him seeming to search for answers.

“What say you to that, Larena? The Duchess asked impatiently, narrowing her eyes at her wayward charge. “Can you tell me about this confrontation Mister Broon speaks of?”

Larena did not meet her aunt’s gaze, seeming to like the looks of the floor and rug better. “I’d rather not talk about our altercation. In any case, the dispute between us was really nothing.” Her gaze shifted from the floor to Gavin.

“You probably don’t want my rendition,” Gavin said pleasantly, “but if Larena doesn’t want to tell her story, I’ll be happy to explain our tardiness. May I take a seat?” He needed to tell all the truth, but he didn’t want The Duchess to judge Larena too harshly or worse, keep him from seeing her. Now that his business was finished, he planned on spending every accessible moment with her, and in the process changing her mind about him.

“Of course, I’m waiting with baited-breath for the story.” The Duchess waved her hand, “Would you like something to drink or a lemon bar?” she pointed to the plate.

“Both,” Gavin said, laughing, “A brandy if I may.” He always enjoyed his sessions with The Duchess. In so many ways the conversations were always refreshing as well as eye-opening.

“Scarlett, see to their needs. I’m sure my niece needs a brandy too. The girls seem to have a penchant for the stuff. I’d prefer a fresh pot of tea today. Then we’ll hear what they have to say.”

Gavin sat down on a sofa next to Larena, lazily letting his leg touch her skirts, watching her as she turned to stare at him but made no attempt to move away. What was she up to?

Insinuating himself as far and as deep into her life as he could was his immediate intention. He didn’t mean to give her a chance to run away from him, simply because he was pretty sure this was an act of defiance and not what she truly wanted.

“Larena, do you care to tell me what made the two of you tardy by a couple of hours?” Once more she tapped her cane on the floor. “I’m not getting any younger.”

Larena cleared her throat, “As I told you previously, I’d rather not. It was nothing to concern yourself about. Just something I was interested in. Nothing important. Nothing…”

“If it were nothing, you’d tell me.” The Duchess turned to Gavin. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to hear what happened.”

“That’s alright, Auntie,” Larena hastily said. “I was watching a peaceful protest and Gavin, for no reason what so ever, kidnapped me and held me hostage until it suited him to bring me home.” Clearly agitated, her breaths were shallow and deep.

Charlotte tipped her head to one side, her brows coming together in concentration, “You’ve never lied to me before. Why now? Perhaps I do need some brandy. This might be a long night.”

Larena shrugged her tiny delicate shoulders, sipping the drink she’d been given. “Everything I told you is true.”

The Duchess waved her hand in the air, “Pshaw…a lie of omission is a lie. You’ve left much from your fairytale.” She turned, her attention now focused in another direction. “Gavin?”

“Duchess,” he smiled politely.

“This is between the two of you. I understand that. I have to hear the truth, but for now, I’ll be patient.” Turning to Larena, “I’m leaving for a few months. You will move to the Montgomerie estate while I’m gone. Ella and Drake will be your chaperones.”

Larena rose quickly, “No. I won’t go. I need to stay here, close to the city and my…”

The Duchess looked sternly at her charge then to Gavin as if asking him for help. “You don’t have a choice or a say in this, darling.”

“If it’s a chaperone you want for me, Ella will not be able to fulfill those duties very well.” Larena strode to the sideboard and after pouring another brandy, she downed it swiftly. “I won’t go there.”

“You need to stay away from the elements that are influencing your hasty and at times very bad decisions. I know Ella is no chaperone, but if you are out of the city, I’ll feel you are safe.” She turned to glare at Gavin again as if asking him for answers or another choice.

He didn’t care and thoroughly enjoyed this altercation, which seemed to play into his hands. If he could get her away from the city, he could continue with his plans, without worrying about Larena’s life.

“If you send me away, I’ll return here,” Larena said defiantly. “You know I will. I will go where I please.”

“Your father left you alone too much. I suppose you can do that, but then I’ll be forced to ask Gavin to take charge of your life. If you defy my orders, I’ll hand you over to your young beau. I’ve done worse for my charges. Your life and safety is more important to me than your reputation.”

Shocked by The Duchess’ words, he looked to Larena for a reaction. He wasn’t surprised. Larena’s body shook with anger, he supposed. Her fists were clenched as was her jaw. Fury emanated from her so hard she quivered.

“And what does that mean?” she asked defiantly. “Do I live with him in his tiny apartment or does he come here? You do understand he has only one bed.”

The Duchess leaned back in her chair, her hands resting on the top of her cane, a smile curving her lips. “I don’t care. You and Gavin will have to work that out. I’m sure Gavin will have the last say. He doesn’t strike me as the same type of man as your father.”

“I’m meeting Tyna tomorrow. I won’t miss it.” Her eyes sizzled with a ferocity he’d never seen before. “Drake has arranged for Addie to be there, so I assume you’ll agree to that rendezvous at least.”

His soon to be fiancée had a temper he hoped he could turn to passion. Gavin sat back, settling an arm around her, touching her and to his delight, she didn’t flinch away from him. Instead, it seemed she inadvertently leaned into him as if asking him for his support.

“The last person you should be seeing is this Tyna woman. She is at the root of all your bad decisions.” The Duchess turned to Gavin, again seeming to implore him to do something.

“I will see that Addie meets them. I’m sure the trained spy will be able to take charge of the rendezvous if it turns in an awkward direction.” The mercuric shimmer in Larena’s aqua eyes could melt glass. Yet he took advantage of the rare moment and trailed his finger down her arm then back up, enjoying the slight trembling and wondered if the response was her fury speaking or desire.

“Addie must have better things to do than babysit me,” Larena pointed out indignantly. “It’s supposed to be a private conversation. She’s my friend and she doesn’t mean any harm.”

“Private conversations are against the law,” The Duchess told her. “More trouble is brewing, and I don’t want you in the middle of it or on the wrong side of the law.”

“Ah, you forget that if you refuse to go to the Montgomerie’s residence, I suddenly become your chaperone; an intriguing idea.” The Duchess’ judgment seemed to have deteriorated. She would know Larena would never remain a virgin if he was alone with her for very long. Maybe that’s what she wanted.

“How on earth can a cad and a womanizer become my chaperone?” Larena turned to The Duchess, fists clenched at her sides. “You’re going crazy in your old age. I thought you had more common sense that that.” She suddenly stopped, her hand over her mouth.

Taken aback by her statement, Gavin cleared his throat. Despite what she thought about him, he was pleased with the new situation the two of them were just now thrown into. This way he could keep Larena from finding too much trouble. “While I’m hardly a suitable chaperone for a young lady such as yourself, I’ve never been a cad or a womanizer.” He didn’t like that his intended thought the worst of him.

“It is the wisest choice of all those presented to me as well as all the ones you refused,” The Duchess said, the strange smile remaining. “Gavin will make a fine chaperone.”

“Well, I don’t like any of the choices. I’m perfectly capable of living here by myself. I’ve no need of a guardian,” Larena declared heatedly. “Especially not Gavin Broon.”

“I think you protest too much, sweet one.” Gavin pulled her closer, wrapping both arms around her and for the moment declaring his possession of her. In his mind, she would always be his to protect and cherish. He did regret his too aggressive display of affection earlier today. She needed to be wooed gently, and he meant to do just that now that he was handed a golden opportunity.

“How well will this role work for you when all you want is to get me into your bed?” she shook his arms from around her and moved away.

“Hmm…” he paused then laughed softly, pleased with himself and the new opportunity. “In my bed would be a dream come true for me, but not until we’re married. I planned to hold to tradition in this matter unless of course you manage to seduce me.”

“Seduce you? Marry you? What makes you think I’d marry you or would want to seduce you? If you haven’t figured it out yet, you haven’t asked.” She turned on him.

“Consider this a proposal,” he said, watching her intensely, his heart beating furiously.

The Duchess clapped her hands together. “Perfect! I was hoping something like this would happen. Perhaps the two of you can wed this evening. I’ll call in a favor.”

“Stop right there,” Larena said, pointing a shaking finger at her aunt. “I’m not getting married tonight or tomorrow. I don’t care a fig about a grand wedding any longer, but Gavin has paid no attention to me for months now. He can’t just saunter into my life and think to marry me.”

“Saunter into your life?” he repeated with sarcasm. “I was tied up in litigation then I was in Scotland to attend to my mother’s estate. I can assure you I thought of you every single day and night when I was sleeping alone in my bed.” He was disappointed she didn’t understand the messages he sent her or the urgent necessity. What he hadn’t thought was that she would act out because she thought he ignored her and put her life in danger.

“See, there you go,” The Duchess seemed pleased with herself. “We have a match made in heaven.”

“My answer is still no.” She stood swiftly, her skirts flying around her so he was graced with a peek at her tiny ankles. Larena turned back to the room. “I’m going to bed now.”

“If you don’t intend to wed Gavin tonight, I insist you stay here until the carriage is loaded and I’m on my way.” The Duchess tapped her cane. “I’d like the two of you to see me off.”

With a heavy sigh, Larena returned. “You are leaving tonight? Is that safe? It couldn’t possibly be safe.”

“I prefer to travel at night, and I’ve enlisted several men to guard the carriage. I have found that in my old age I sleep while traveling. I sleep like a baby, makes the journey go so much faster.” The Duchess turned to Scarlett. “Are the bags and snacks ready to go?”

“I’ll check with the butler and the cook,” Scarlett said and left the room.

“Good, then the two of you need to find a way to cohabitate. I really have great expectations for the both of you as a couple. Gavin, you need to keep Larena safe from herself. I fear for her impetuous behavior. She doesn’t ever think of the repercussion. Promise me that if you have to, you’ll haul her off to Gretna Green and wed her before she does harm to herself.”

“Duchess…”

“Promise me,” she tapped her cane once.

“It won’t come to that but I promise. One never knows exactly what the future will bring. However, Larena will have to agree to a marriage. In any case, I would make sure to get her out of town.” The trap The Duchess seemed to be laying was deep and intricate. But the ruse was for Larena not him. This was exactly what he wanted, only he needed to figure out a way to stop Larena’s irritation with him.

“I’m not going along with anything so absurd,” Larena protested. “I don’t know what has happened to The Duchess, but I’d like her back, please. Where is my aunty?” She clasped her hands beneath her chin her eyes wide, regarding her aunt Charlotte.

“The facts are simple, dear child. I’m a woman who learns from her mistakes. Every precaution I took with your sisters and cousins were to no avail. They and their beaus did exactly what they pleased despite my wishes and objections as well as all the care I took as a chaperone. I’m leaving the two of you with a clean slate. You can do whatever you want with it, paint any picture that suits the two of you. I’m exhausted and so I’m leaving for a bit of relaxation in the Highlands.”

“The carriage is ready.”

The Duchess rose, “Come, give me a hug, darling. I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience I’ve caused you. I do think this is for the best.”

While Gavin leaned casually against the doorframe, Larena ran to her aunt and gave her a huge hug. “Don’t forget to write, Aunty. I will miss you and I really don’t think you’re making a prudent decision here.”

“I’ll return each of your letters with one of my own,” The Duchess told her. “Now, the two of you take care and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“But…you and the Duke,” Larena said, pointing at her with a shaking hand.

“Of course, dear, and if he’s the one for you and you’re the one for him, I expect no less. Just as it was with most of my darling charges, I did manage to get the ring on Ravyn’s finger before Aric took her virginity, but she was the only one to my knowledge. No, I think Eveleen also had her virginity intact, but I can’t be sure.”

Gavin heard every word and smiled, his heart enjoying every second. The Duchess turned over Larena’s future to him, and he’d have it no other way. Larena was his. She just didn’t know it yet or accept the idea. He followed the ladies from the house and with Larena watched the carriage and her guards disappear.

He heard the muffled sob from Larena and moving closer offered comfort in his arms. “I won’t be a demanding chaperone. I promise.” This was something new. He didn’t know what to do with a crying woman.

“I won’t come to your bed willingly,” she protested as he wiped a few tears away with his thumb.

“I haven’t asked,” he laughed.

“You had me on your bed this afternoon,” she told him, a tinge of defiance in her tone.

“Of course I did. I can have you on your bed tonight if I wish and you won’t say no, but I’m not going to.” He tilted his head slightly, studying this fragile determined woman he was trying to understand.

“Oh,” she picked up her skirts, whirling then stepped into the house. “Arrogant… Infuriating… Annoying…”

Rocking on his heels, he looked at the moon, which cast soft tendrils of light on the ground. He wished he’d finished the renovations to the home in Scotland before he felt an urgent need to return home. It was something The Duchess had written that prompted him. His office and established clients waited for his arrival. Convincing Larena she belonged with him might take a few months as well as a great deal of patience. At this moment, time was precious and he intended to make the most of minutes and hours he’d been allotted.

Slowly he turned, walking up the steps to find Larena sipping brandy in the parlor. He’d been sure she would have fled to the safety of her bedroom, yet she stayed.

When he strode into the room, she looked up and held up her glass. “Would you like another brandy?”

“Don’t mind if I do.” Before he poured a drink for himself, he topped off Larena’s. “You like to drink?”

“Only when I’m so angry I can’t think straight,” she told him sweetly. “Lately, you have a tendency to make me that way.”

“So, what makes you angry?” he baited her, unsure of his reasons yet he loved to see her passion, wanted to feel it first hand and he needed to know more about her.

“You.” She held her glass so tightly her knuckles were turning white. “You make me so furious I can’t think.”

“Me?”

“You arrogant man. Don’t play innocent with me.” She swirled the amber liquid before sipping. “You do what you want, take what you want…”

“I’ve only tried to do everything The Duchess and you as well wanted. My sacrifices make you mad. Now, I’m going to have to sleep in a strange bed.” For a moment he thought she might toss the brandy in his face, instead she downed the liquor then held her glass out for more.

Reluctantly, he poured more brandy into her glass, understanding if he refused she’d get it herself and be even angrier with him. To hell with it all, if she got herself drunk, he’d be there to help. “If you get tipsy, it will be easier for me to take advantage of you.”

Regarding him over the rim of her glass, her eyes narrowing, “I don’t think you would do that.”

“Do what?”

“You know, what you said. Take advantage of me.”

That seemed to be an about face to Gavin. “Would you even know what I’m talking about?” He set his glass on the table and striding toward her, he took her glass from her and placed it on another table. Pulling her into his arms, “I’ve wanted to do this all night.” His lips found hers while he held her still, his hands on either side of her face.

To his surprise she responded to his advance. Her tongue swept his mouth and he let her inside, allowed her the offense. Her teeth closed on his lips, biting gently then eliciting a groan.

She ran her small fingers through his hair, pulling him closer. He let her lead, enjoying her passion derived, he supposed, from her anger.

Pulling away, she said with an angelic smile, “I like the way you taste, brandy and something different…you.”

His heart stopped momentarily. “It’s the brandy you savor.” If he let this go on much longer, she would be in his bed tonight. That was not part of his master plan.

“Maybe, but I believe it’s more than that,” she told him, her innocence staggering to him.

“Part imagination, I suppose.” His laughter was quick and easy, enjoying her weakness for brandy. It seemed to serve him well. She was relaxed and so unlike the temperament she’d been in most of the day. This was the Larena he’d come to know months ago.

“No, I taste you, something beyond the brandy. It was the same this afternoon when you kissed me.” Her hands were on his chest, tiny fingers grasping the cloth of his shirt.

“Perhaps we should table this discussion for another time,” he murmured softly, his voice trailing away in a haunting sigh. His knuckles brushed over her cheek and his fingers whispered against the length of her throat. She gazed at him, unmoving, not protesting.

She stepped back, seeming to realize all she said and the implications. “I despise you.”

He laughed, catching her wrist and pulling her toward him so their bodies met. “Despise? That’s a very strong word when we barely know each other. But, my dear one, I promise you there will come a time when you don’t loathe me. Just as I believe you’re lying right now.”

“Bastard!”

“Ummm… Perhaps I am in some ways, but I can assure you my mother would take issue with your claim.” He agreed and the touch of his free hand traveled lower, teasing the mound of her breast. She stiffened in his arms while his fingers continued their exploration, touching her breast, grazing her nipple through the fabric of her gown. Then once again he laughed and his touch vanished.

He handed her the brandy he set on the table then picked up his glass. “You were right. We should talk,” she said.

Sipping his drink, “Are you sure you haven’t had too much to imbibe.” His gaze ran her length then settled on her mouth. “You tasted of brandy but you smelled of the sweetest flowers.”

“You may sleep in the room down the hall.” She sat down, smoothing her skirts, keeping her gaze focused on her hands.

“No.”

“There must be some sign of propriety.” she looked at him, her face flushed and her eyes blazing once more but it seemed they burned with passion not fury.

He knew she wanted him. “Why?” He strode through the parlor, picking up items and regarding them before placing them into their proper positions, waiting for her reasoning.

“Because.”

He shrugged his shoulders, anticipating an answer she didn’t seem to be able to form into words. “Yes.” One eyebrow rose in speculation.

She fidgeted. “You don’t want to ruin my reputation. You said so yourself. Said you’d marry me before that happened.”

“As long as I’m the man ruining you, I don’t care a fig about your reputation. When the ton discovers I’m living in this house alone with you, well…” He wanted her to finish the sentence.

“They will assume so many things that aren’t true.”

“And if you continue to play games with these protestors, you will find your reputation also ruined. You will have to choose, but I intend to do everything in my power to keep you from falling.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Your well being is my only concern right now.”

“That’s hard to believe after you’ve…”

“Kissed you, touched you and came very close to ravishing you? Is that what you mean? And I thought I acted the perfect gentleman.”

“Gentleman?” she was on her feet, her body shaking with fierce emotion.

Once again he touched a spark. “True, you’ve had the opportunity to feel my kiss and my touch against your flesh, but there was so much more I could have done. I believe I’ve tremendous restraint.” Bloody hell, but in his mind he was a saint.

She stood, “Restraint? You call that restraint. I’m going to bed.”

“And I will be right behind you. I’m sure the room next to yours will be very acceptable.”

~ * ~

“Do you think that was wise?” Scarlett asked. “Leaving the two of them alone with each other?”

“I don’t know what to think any longer. You know as well as I do the young folks will do whatever they wish regardless of what people will think of them.” Of course she had regrets about this, but the trip to the McLellan castle was necessary. “I need to see David. I’ve missed him and it seems to have been so long since Tavia’s wedding and we were together.”

“But to leave the two of them alone and in the same house?” Scarlett repeated her question, removing her gloves. “That just wasn’t wise.”

“I know they might explode. I saw the fire simmering between them. All it will take is the smallest trigger.”

Scarlett leaned over and patted Charlotte’s hand. “Remember, Larena was seen with an insurgent and as far as we can tell this Tyna is his girlfriend. The pair is dangerous and they will jeopardize Larena anyway they can just to get what they want.”

“Gavin understands what is at stake here, and it’s more than Larena’s reputation. It could very well have repercussions on her life. He will do all that is necessary to stop anything that might happen. Drake was called in to help, but he can’t possibly spend the needed time with her. Gavin can.”

“Charlotte, we are getting too old for all this subterfuge. I say my heart goes out to the young ones. Life is so difficult now, not like it was when we were young.” Scarlett wiped a tear from her cheek.

“I still worry about Tira and Aidan, Aidan especially. The two of them are totally alone. Ravyn and Amorica live miles away. If Blade finds Aidan, the fire between Gavin and Larena will be nothing compared to the explosion waiting to happen with Blade and Aiden.”

“Those two girls were not with us long enough.” Sniffles overtook Scarlett. “I miss all of them so very much. Why did they have to move away?”

“No, perhaps if they stayed, Larena would not have become involved with the social protestors. Until Larena got tangled with these people, I’d forgotten about the Peterloo Massacre. Half-a-dozen people were killed and so many more injured. I know Gavin returned sooner than he planned simply because I summoned him, needing his help.”

“Gavin won’t let anything happen to our sweet Larena.”

Charlotte pulled a newspaper from a large bag sitting next to her, handing it to her companion. “Take a look at this.”

Scarlett’s gasp didn’t surprise Charlotte. “This can’t be. Say it didn’t happen. No, no, no…”

“I wish I could. No, Gavin’s going to have his hands full, already does. She’s just as stubborn and impetuous as the rest of the girls.” The Duchess wasn’t sure what else could be done. She pulled open the basket of snacks cooked for them. “At least they will have good food while we are gone. Cook loves to have men to feed.”

“Cook isn’t eager to be the only one supervising those two as if she could, but she does love her job so she’ll do her duty as best she can. I certainly hope the McLellan has an exceptional cook.”

Charlotte gazed at the front page of the London Times for a bit before sighing and placing the horrible reminder that Larena needed a lot of looking after into her bag. “The butler didn’t much like the job either, even though I told them they should just look the other way unless something occurred that might be life threatening.” The Duchess tucked the bag into a corner, wishing she could tuck her fears away just as easily.

“I’m certainly relieved you wanted me to travel with you.”

“You’re my companion. I will always want you to be by my side. Oh look, Cook packed us a couple bottles of Logan’s Chianti, my favorite. I’m sure the McLellan will have crates of both the Bordeaux as well as Chianti in his cellar, especially since Logan Maxwell is his son in law.”

“A wonderful trip, relaxing, just what I need. I might just remain in my room every night with a bottle of each,” Scarlett laughed, casting her blue eyes dramatically heavenward.

“I’m looking forward to spending time with David and reminiscing. I’m hoping he’ll take me to this island the girls all rave about so I can see the danger as well as the draw.” Charlotte continued to probe the basket, finding glasses for the wine and ham sandwiches for both of them. “I do hope you’re hungry, Scarlett.”

“Famished,” she said as the carriage rolled to a halt.

Charlotte poked her head out the window. “What are we stopping for?”