Bow Street Runner - Worth Any Price Part 2

Sputtering in surprise, Lottie flailed at her captor in a bid for freedom.

aEasy,a came a masculine voice, rich with laughter. aEasy. Itas me.a She gasped and went still, staring up at his dark face. aLord S-Sydney?a aYes.a aYou nearly frightened me to death!a aSorry.a He grinned, his white teeth gleaming in the darkness. aI didnat want to interrupt you.a Lottie laughed and pushed at him, mortified to be caught singing to herself like some half-wit. aHow did you find me?a aIt seems to be a talent of mine.a Sydney released her and leaned one shoulder against the sycamore, his careless smile at variance with his alert gaze.

Lottie felt for her kerchief, which had been dislodged in the flurry of activity. aI covered my haira"I canat think how you recognized me.a aI know the way you move.a She did not reply, experiencing a mixture of pleasure and uncertainty. There was a compliment implicit in the statement. But he was a strangerahe had not known her long enough, nor well enough, to distinguish something so intrinsic and subtle.

aDid you enjoy the May festivities, my lord?a she asked as she tied the kerchief back into place.

aI enjoyed watching you.a Her eyes narrowed in pretend-menace. aDo you intend to tell anyone that you saw me here?a Lord Sydney leaned closer, as if to impart some highly confidential news. aNot if my life depended on it.a Smiling, Lottie leaned her shoulder against the tree trunk, mirroring his posture. aAre you going a-maying, like the other young men?a aThat depends.a A flirtatious gleam entered his eyes. aAre you going to run through the forest in hopes of being captured?a aDecidedly not.a aThen allow me to escort you back to the house. I shouldnat like for you to be waylaid by some impa.s.sioned village youth.a aOh, I would outrun any of them,a Lottie said confidently. aI know these woods quite well, and I am small enough to dart easily among the trees. No one could catch me.a aI could.a aA man as large as you? I think not. In these woods, with all the underbrush, you would be as noisy as a rampaging elephant.a His body tensed subtly, his appreciation of the impudent challenge almost palpable. aYou might be surpriseda"a he began, and paused as he was distracted by a feminine squeal from somewhere to the left of them, as a village girl was acaughta by a randy young man. A moment of silence, and then a loud moan of pleasure filtered through the trees.

When Sydney turned back to Lottie, she was gone.

Laughing inwardly, she slipped through the woods like a wraith, raising her skirts to her knees to keep from being snagged by branches. She maneuvered easily through the maze of trunks and flexible saplings, until finally all was quiet and there was no sign of anyone behind her. Pausing for breath, Lottie glanced over her shoulder. No movement, nothing except for the distant sounds of May Day carousing.

Either Lord Sydney had decided not to give chase, or he had lost her in mid-pursuit. A triumphant smile curved her lipsa"she had proved her point. Turning, she continued toward Stony Cross Parka"and shrieked in alarm as she walked right into a hard male body.

She was caught against a deep chest, a pair of powerful arms subduing her easily. It was Lord Sydney, his low laugh tickling her ear. Stunned, she leaned against him, requiring temporary support as she strove to recover her equilibrium.

aHow did you get in front of me?a she asked breathlessly.

aFlank speed.a His gentle fingers sought to restore her kerchief, but it slid from her fine, slippery hair, revealing the neat braided coil at her nape. He let the cloth drop to the ground. A smile wove through his voice. aYou canat escape me, you know.a The teasing words seemed to contain a hint of warning.

Lottie stood in the shelter of his body, absorbing his warmth, his spicy masculine scent. How had she come to be alone in the darkness with him? She did not believe in happenstance. This could only be a result of her own relentless attraction to himaan attraction that seemed to be returned in full measure. As they both fell silent, Lottie became aware of a nearby couple, their entwined figures barely visible through the trees. The m.u.f.fled sounds of s.e.xual revelry brought a rush of heat to Lottieas face.

aTake me back to the house, please,a she said.

Lord Sydney released her. Lottie stepped away, almost b.u.mping against the large tree behind her. Following, he pressed her against the wide trunk, using his arms to protect her from the rough bark. Her breath caught sharply. Her hands slid to his upper arms, where the brutal swell of muscle was manifest through his coat. She knew that he was going to kiss her, that he wanted her. And heaven help her, she wanted him too.

He stroked the curve of her cheek with a single fingertip, so carefully, as if she were a wild creature that would bolt at the slightest sign of haste. Her breath quickened as he touched her chin and tilted her head back in an angle of surrender.

His gentle mouth descended to hers, molding, coaxing, until she parted her lips with a gasp of pleasure. The tip of his tongue stroked the edge of her teeth, ventured farther, brushed the inside of her cheek in a burning, delicate exploration. The kiss made her light-headed, and she wrapped her arms around his neck in a desperate bid for balance. He let her have more of his weight, pinning her securely between his body and the unyielding oak at her back. She twisted and pulled at him, until he made a soothing noise and ran his hands down her back. The slow caress only sharpened her need, making her arch against him in a blind, instinctive search. She felt something against the fabric of her rough-woven skirtathe intimate bulge of his s.e.x.

The rigid length of him matched perfectly in the notch between her thighs. His hardness pressed into her softness, his mouth possessed hers with wicked skill, while his arms surrounded her. Sliding her hands into his hair, she curved her fingers around his scalp, beneath the thick locks that gleamed like silk in the fragmented moonlight. A harsh breath escaped him, and his lips slid along her throat. Even in her innocence, she sensed the wealth of experience in his careful touch, the hunger he kept so tightly shackled.

Her peasant blouse had slipped over one shoulder, revealing the white gleam of her skin. His fingers stole to the ribbon of her gathered neckline and tugged deftly, causing the crumpled linen to slide downward. Gradually his hand eased beneath her chemise. Her cool, soft nipple tightened against the calloused pads of his fingers, the peak turning harder and warmer with each circling stroke.

Lottie pressed her face into the crook of his neck and shoulder. She had to stop him now, before her will was completely demolished. aNo. Please stop. Iam sorry.a His hand slid from her blouse, and he touched her damp lips with his fingers. aHave I frightened you?a he whispered.

Lottie shook her head, somehow resisting the urge to curl into his embrace like a sun-warmed cat. aNoaIave frightened myself.a For some reason her admission made him smile. His fingers moved to her throat, tracing the fragile line with a sensitivity that made her breath catch. Tugging the peasant blouse back up to her shoulder, he retied the frayed ribbon that secured the neckline. aThen Iall stop,a he said. aComea"Iall take you to the house.a He stayed close to her as they continued through the forest, occasionally moving to push a branch out of the way, or taking her hand to guide her over a rough place on the path. As familiar as she was with the woods of Stony Cross Park, Lottie had no need of his a.s.sistance. But she accepted the help with demur. And she did not protest when he paused again, his lips finding hers easily in the darkness. His mouth was hot and sweet as he kissed her compulsivelyaswift kisses, languid ones, kisses that ranged from intense need to wicked flirtation. Drugged with pleasure, Lottie let her hands wander to the thick dishevelment of his hair, the iron-hard nape of his neck. When the blistering heat rose to an untenable degree, Lord Sydney groaned softly.

aCharlotteaa aLottie,a she told him breathlessly.

He pressed his lips to her temple and cuddled her against his powerful body as if she were infinitely fragile. aI never thought I would find someone like you,a he whispered. aIave looked for you so longaneeded youaa Lottie s.h.i.+vered and dropped her head to his shoulder. aThis isnat real,a she said faintly.

His lips touched her neck, finding a place that made her arch involuntarily. aWhatas real, then?a She gestured to the yew hedge that bordered the estate garden. aEverything back there.a His arms tightened, and he spoke in a m.u.f.fled voice. aLet me come to your room. Just for a little while.a Lottie responded with a trembling laugh, knowing exactly what would happen if she allowed that. aAbsolutely not.a Soft, hot kisses drifted over her skin. aYouare safe with me. I would never ask for more than you were willing to give.a Lottie closed her eyes, her head spinning. aThe problem is,a she said ruefully, aI am willing to give you entirely too much.a She felt the curve of his smile against her cheek. aIs that a problem?a aOh, yes.a Pulling away from him, Lottie held her hands to her hot face and sighed unsteadily. aWe must stop this. I donat trust myself with you.a aYou shouldnat,a he agreed hoa.r.s.ely.

The sounds of their breathing mingled in the darkness. He was so warm and strong that Lottie could barely keep from flinging herself at him. Instead she forced herself to think rationally. Lord Sydney would be gone soon, and the memory of this night would fade in time. She was not so weak-willed, or foolish, that she could be so easily seduced.

aAt least let me walk with you to the house,a Lord Sydney urged. aIf we are seen together, you can explain it as a chance meeting.a Lottie hesitated, then nodded. aAnd weall part company at the back terrace?a aYes.a Offering her his arm, Lord Sydney accompanied her to the double-sided stone staircase at the back of the manor. They were both silent as they ascended to the terrace that overlooked the main gardens. Abundant light from the great hall shone through the glittering multipaned windows and French doors. The terrace, often the location for guests to smoke and drink port, was unoccupied, as nearly everyone was either in the village or playing cards and billiards inside.

A lone figure relaxed in a chair by the railing. He drew lazily on a cigar, exhaling a thin stream of smoke that drifted in the air like a vanis.h.i.+ng wraith. The scent of expensive tobacco tickled Lottieas nostrils as she reached the top step.

Her stomach flipped uneasily as she realized who the man was.

aLord Westcliff,a she murmured, curtsying automatically. Uneasily she wondered what he would make of the fact that she was accompanied by Lord Sydney.

The earl remained seated as he surveyed the two of them. The refracted light from the windows gleamed on his coal black hair and cast angular shadows across his blunt, strong features. aMiss Miller,a he said in his gravelly voice, and nodded coolly to her companion. aSydney. What convenient timing. There is a matter that I wish to take up with you.a Certain that her employer was displeased with her, Lottie lowered her gaze to the stone flagging of the terrace. aMy lord, forgive me. I went to watch the festival in the village, anda"a aYou did more than watch, it appears,a Lord Westcliff observed mildly, his keen gaze sweeping over her rustic attire.

aYes, I took part in the Maypole dance. And Lord Sydney offered to escort me homea"a aOf course he did,a the earl said sardonically, taking another pull on his cigar. Blue-gray smoke whirled and eddied upward. aThere is no need to look so distressed, Miss Miller. As far as I am concerned, you are not prohibited from seeking entertainment in the villagea"although it would doubtless be wise not to mention such activities to the dowager countess.a He gestured with his cigar. aYou may go now, while I discuss a few things with Lord Sydney.a Lottie nodded in cautious relief. aYes, sir.a As she began to depart, she was astonished to feel Lord Sydneyas light, restraining hand on her arm.

aWait.a Lottie froze in utter confusion, her face flooding with color. She could not believe that he had dared to touch her in front of the earl. aMy lord,a she murmured in protest.

Sydney did not return her glance; his gaze was fixed intently on the earlas harsh features. aBefore Miss Miller takes her leave, you had better tell me what this is about.a aThis is about your so-called family,a Lord Westcliff said softly. aAnd your so-called past.a The quiet words rang with condemnation. Lottie realized from the earlas expression that something was very wrong. If any warmth had lingered from the enchanted moments in the forest, it vanished abruptly.

Bewildered, she stared at Lord Sydney. His face had changed somehow, no longer quite so handsome, but suddenly hard and cold. To behold him now, one would believe that this man was capable of anything. Suddenly, she could not believe that a few minutes ago she had kissed that stern mouth, that his hands had caressed her intimately. When he spoke, even his voice sounded different, his accent a bit coa.r.s.er. The aristocratic veneer had been stripped away, revealing the stony layers beneath. aI would prefer to discuss this in a more private setting,a he said to the earl.

Westcliff inclined his head with icy courtesy. aThere is a study in the family wing. Will that serve?a aYes.a Sydney paused deliberately before adding, aMiss Miller will accompany us.a Lottie stared at him blankly. His request made no sense. Suddenly she felt cold all over, and a s.h.i.+ver chased down her spine. aWhy?a she asked through dry lips.

aShe has nothing to do with this,a Lord Westcliff said curtly, rising from his chair.

Lord Sydneyas face was dark and still. aShe has everything to do with it.a Lottie felt herself turn white. The entire surface of her body seemed to p.r.i.c.kle and burn, as if she had fallen into a frozen pond. She found it difficult to speak or move as a paralyzing suspicion crept over her.

The earl dropped his cigar to the terrace and crushed it with his foot. A touch of uncharacteristic impatience edged his tone. aMiss Miller, will you be so kind as to join us? It seems that we have a small mystery to solve.a Nodding in a puppetlike fas.h.i.+on, Lottie followed the earl into the house, while her instincts screamed for her to flee. She had little choice but to play the scene out, however. Forcing herself to behave calmly, she went with the two men to the private study, its rosewood paneling glowing ruddily in the lamplight. The room was hard and uncompromising, with minimal upholstery and sharp angles, and no ornamentation save for a pristine row of stained gla.s.s windows.

As Lord Westcliff closed the door, Lottie took care to keep as great a distance between herself and Sydney as possible. A sense of foreboding nearly made her ill. She could not bring herself to look directly at Lord Sydney, but she was intensely aware of him.

Lord Westcliff spoke. aWill you have a seat, Miss Miller?a Lottie shook her head dumbly, afraid that if she moved at all, she might collapse.

aVery well.a The earlas attention moved to Lord Sydney. aLet us begin with the information I received today. Immediately upon your arrival at Stony Cross Park, I undertook to make certain inquiries about you. I suspected that you were not being entirely truthful in some regard, although I could not quite put my finger on what it was.a Lord Sydney appeared relaxed but watchful, his blue eyes hard as he returned the earlas stare. aAnd the results of your inquiries, my lord?a aThere is no Viscount Sydney,a Westcliff said bluntly, ignoring Lottieas gasp as he continued. aThe family line ended approximately twenty years ago, when the real Lord Sydney diedsine prole mascula superst.i.te a"without surviving male children to establish a legitimate claim to the t.i.tle. Which begs the questionawho the h.e.l.l are you? And what is your purpose here?a aIam Nick Gentry.a Although Lottie had never heard the name, Lord Westcliff seemed to recognize it. aI see,a he said softly. aThat explains Sir Rossas involvement. Youare about some business for Bow Street, then.a Lottie gasped in astonishment as she realized that the stranger was a Bow Street runner. She had heard of the small, elite force of officers who did everything from solving murder cases to serving as bodyguards for royalty. They were known for their ruthless efficiency and courage, and had even achieved a celebrated status in higher social circles. No wonder this man had seemed so different from the other guests here.aI hunt,a he had told her, conveniently omitting the fact that his prey was the two-legged variety.

aNot always,a Gentry said in response to Westcliffas question. aSometimes I accept private commissions.a His gaze moved to Lottieas tense face. aTwo months ago I was hired by Lord Radnor to find his runaway fiance, Charlotte Howard, who has been missing for two years.a Lottie was utterly still, while cruel pain burst inside her chest and leaked all through her. Her mouth shook with violent denial, but no words would come out. Instead she heard a high-pitched, incoherent cry, only later realizing it had been her own. She was not aware of moving, but suddenly she was across the room, clawing at Gentryas dark face, while rage and terror swooped around her like attacking buzzards.

A savage curse rang in her ears, and her wrists were s.n.a.t.c.hed in crus.h.i.+ng vises, but she did not, could not, stop struggling. Sweat and tears poured down her face, and she breathed in sobbing screams, fighting for her life, for the freedom that was being ripped away from her. Somewhere in her mind she knew that she was acting like a madwoman, that this would do her no good, but she could not seem to stop herself.

aStop it, Lottie,a Gentry snarled, giving her a hard shake. aCalm yourselfafor G.o.das sakea"a aI wonat go back!a she shrieked, panting furiously. aIall kill you first, oh G.o.d, I hate you,hate you a"a aLottie.a The cold voice of sanity cut neatly through her writhing torment. It was Lord Westcliffas voice. One of his powerful arms slid around her from behind, and he hauled her away from Gentry. She reared back against him like a terrified animal. aThatas enough,a Westcliff said against her ear, his arm tightening into a steely band. aHe wonat take you, Lottie. I swear it. You know that I always keep my word. Now take a deep breath. Another.a Somehow the earlas stern, quiet voice reached her as nothing else could have, and she found herself obeying. He guided her to a chair and forced her to sit. Lowering to his haunches, he pinned her with a steady, black gaze. aStay still. And keep breathing.a Lottie nodded jerkily, her face still streaming. aDonat let him come near me,a she whispered.

Standing, Westcliff shot the Bow Street runner a glance of obsidian ice. aKeep your distance, Gentry. I donat give a d.a.m.n about who has paid you to do what. Youare on my estate, and youall do nothing without my consent.a aYou have no legal claim on her,a Gentry said softly. aYou canat keep her here.a Westcliff responded with an arrogant snort. Going to the sideboard, he poured a small quant.i.ty of amber liquid into a gla.s.s. Bringing the liquor to Lottie, he forced her trembling fingers around the vessel. aDrink this,a he said curtly.

aI donata"a she began, but he interrupted in a tone of absolute authority.

aNow. Every drop.a Grimacing, she downed the liquid in a few gulps and coughed as her lungs and throat were filled with velvet fire. Her head swam, and she regarded the earl with watering eyes. He extracted a handkerchief from the inside of his coat and gave it to her. The linen was warm from the heat of his body. Blotting her face with it, she sighed shakily. aThank you,a she said hoa.r.s.ely. She kept her gaze fastened on him, unable to look at Gentry. She had never dreamed that such devastation was possibleathat her ruin had come in the form of a handsome man with cruel eyes and raffish charmathe first man she had ever kissed. The pain of betrayal, the crus.h.i.+ng humiliation of it, was too great to bear.

aNow,a Westcliff said evenly, taking a chair beside Lottieas, ayour reaction to Mr. Gentryas revelation would seem to confirm that you are indeed Charlotte Howard.a He waited for her brief nod before continuing. aIt is also true that you are betrothed to Lord Radnor?a Lottie was rea.s.sured by the earlas powerful presence, knowing that he was the only thing that kept her safe from the predator who lurked nearby. Staring into Westcliffas blunt features, she struggled for the right words to make him understand her situation. As the earl saw her agitation, he surprised her by reaching out and taking her hand in his square one. His grip, so strong and secure, seemed to drive away the incapacitating fear. Lottie was amazed by his kindness. He had never shown her this kind of considerationahad never seemed to take much notice of her, actually.

aIt was never my choice,a she told him. aIt was arranged when I was a child. My parents promised Lord Radnor my hand in return for his financial patronage. I have tried very hard to accept the situation, but Radnor is not rationala"not sanea"in my opinion. He has made no secret of his plansa"he regards me as some kind of animal to be trained to his satisfaction. Suffice it to say that I would be better off dead. You must believe me, I would never have resorted to this otherwisea"a aI believe you.a Still retaining possession of her hand, Westcliff glanced at Nick Gentry. aHaving been acquainted with Miss Miller for quite some time, I can only a.s.sume that her objections to marrying Radnor are valid.a aThey are,a came the runneras flat response. He lounged near the fireplace with deceptive laziness, resting an arm on the marble mantel. Flames cast tongues of red light over his dark face. aRadnor is a swine. But that is beside the point. Her parents have agreed to the match. Moneya"a great deal of ita"has changed hands. And if I donat retrieve her, Radnor will send a dozen more like me to do the job.a aThey wonat find me,a Lottie said, finally managing to meet his gaze. aIall go abroad. Iall disappeara"a aYou little fool,a Gentry interrupted in a low voice. aDo you plan to spend the rest of your life running? Heall send another man after you, and another. Youall never have a momentas peace. You canat go fast enough, or far enougha"a aThatas enough,a Westcliff said curtly, feeling the s.h.i.+ver that ran through Lottieas body. aNo, Lottie will not go abroad, nor will she continue to run from Lord Radnor. We will find a way to resolve the matter so that she may lead a normal life.a aOh?a One of Gentryas dark brows lifted in a mocking arch. aThis should be interesting. What do you propose to do, Westcliff?a The earl was silent as he considered the matter.

As Lottie continued to stare at Nick Gentry, she tried to think past the welter of emotions. She would find some way out. She would be d.a.m.ned if she would be taken to Radnor like a lamb to the slaughter. Her thoughts must have been obvious, for Gentryas gaze was suddenly touched with flinty admiration as he stared at her. aAs I see it, you have only two options,a he said softly.

Her voice shook only a little as she replied. aWhat are they?a aWith the right inducement, I may be persuaded to let you go, in which case you will continue to hide from Radnor until youare caught again. Orayou can remove yourself from his reach permanently.a aWhat do you mean?a Lord Westcliff intervened in the taut silence. aHe means marriage. Once you are married and legally under another manas protection, Radnor will cease his pursuit.a Lottieas gaze dropped to the strong hand covering hers. aBut that is impossible. I donat know any men who would be willingaa She stopped, feeling ill and bitter.

aItis possible,a the earl countered calmly.

As Lottie stared at Westcliff with wondering eyes, Nick Gentryas quiet jeer cut through the air. aPlanning to make her your countess, my lord?a The earlas face was expressionless. aIf necessary.a Stunned, Lottie clung to his hand tightly before withdrawing from him. It was inconceivable that Westcliff would be willing to make such a sacrifice. Perhaps she could reconcile herself to the prospect of marrying without love. After all, anything was preferable to becoming Lady Radnor. However, the earl was a good, honorable man, and she would not take advantage of him that way.

aYou are remarkably kind, my lord,a she told him. aBut I would never marry you, as you deserve far better than a marriage of convenience. That is too great a sacrifice for you to make.a aIt would hardly be a sacrifice,a he replied dryly. aAnd it is a logical solution to your dilemma.a Lottie shook her head, her fine brows knitting as a new thought occurred to her. aThere is a third option.a aWhat is it?a A great icy calmness settled over Lottie, and suddenly she felt removed from the scene, as if she were an impartial onlooker rather than a partic.i.p.ant. aI would rather not say just yet. If you would not mind, my lord, I would like to have a few minutes alone with Mr. Gentry.a

Chapter Five.

Nick had known that Lottie would not react pa.s.sively to the news that he had hunted her down on behalf of Lord Radnor. But the pa.s.sionate fury of her response when cornered had startled him. Now that she had regained her self-possession, she stared at him with a desperate calculation that he understood all too well. He thought her magnificent.

Although Lord Westcliff clearly did not agree with Lottieas request, he complied with a frown. aI will wait in the next room,a he said, as if he expected Nick to fall on her like a ravening animal as soon as the door was closed. aCall out if you require a.s.sistance.a aThank you, my lord,a Lottie murmured, giving the earl a grateful smile that caused Nick to boil with jealousy. He would have required little provocation to drive his fist into Westcliffas aristocratic face, especially at the moment when he had taken Lottieas hand to comfort her. Nick had never been possessive of anyone in his life, but he could barely tolerate the sight of Lottie accepting another manas touch. Something was happening to hima"he had lost control of the situation, and he was not certain how to regain it. All he knew for certain was that Lottie was necessary to himathat if he could not have her, this endless feeling of being hungry, unsatisfied, cold, would never leave him.

Nick remained by the fire, relaxed except for his clenched fist on the mantel. Silently he d.a.m.ned Westcliff for this turn of events. Nick had planned to impart the news to Lottie in a gentle way, and soothe her fears before she had a chance to fly into a panic. Now Westcliff had fouled things up considerably, and Lottie was understandably hostile.

She turned to him, her face pale, her eyes reddened from her tears. Her expression was composed, however, and she looked at him with unsettling intensity, as if she were trying to see inside his mind. Her searching gaze made him feel oddly threatened.

aWas it all an act?a she asked quietly.

Nick blinked. He, who had endured countless hours of scrutiny and interrogation and even torture, was completely thrown off by the question.

aI know that some of it was,a Lottie said. aIt was part of your job to gain my trust. But you went quite a bit farther than necessary.a She approached him with hypnotic slowness. aWhy did you say those things to me tonight?a G.o.d help him, he couldnat answer. Worse, he couldnat look away from her, and she seemed to be staring through his eyes into his soul.

aThe truth, Mr. Gentry,a she insisted. aIf I can bring myself to ask, surely you can bring yourself to answer. Did you mean any of it?a Nick felt a light sweat break out on his face. He tried to close her away, to deny her, but it was impossible. aYes,a he said hoa.r.s.ely and clamped his mouth shut. The devil take her if she wanted him to say anything more than that.

For some reason, the admission seemed to make Lottie relax. Nick couldnat begin to imagine why. Finally managing to rip his gaze away from hers, he stared blindly into the dancing firelight. aNow,a he muttered, aperhaps you can explain what the third option is.a aI need protection from Lord Radnor,a she said bluntly. aFew men would be able to hold their own against him. I believe that you could.a The statement was matter-of-factathere was nothing complimentary in her tone. Nevertheless, Nick felt a flicker of masculine pride that she recognized his abilities.

aYes, I could,a he said evenly.

aThen in return for your protection and financial support, I would be willing to be your mistress. I would sign a legally binding contract to that effect. I think that would be enough to keep Lord Radnor at baya"and then I would no longer have to stay in hiding.a His mistress. Nick had never antic.i.p.ated that she would be willing to lower herself that way. However, it seemed that Lottie was ultimately a pragmatist, recognizing when she could not afford to keep her principles.

aYouall let me bed you in return for my money and protection,a he said, as if the wordmistress required definition. He threw a cautious glance at her. aYou will live with me, and accompany me in public, regardless of the shame it causes you. Is that what youare saying?a Her cheeks turned bright red, but she did not look away from him. aYes.a Desire flooded every part of his body with primal heat. The realization that he was going to have her, that she would give herself to him willingly, made him light-headed. His mistressabut that wasnat enough. He needed more of her. All of her.

Deliberately he went to the settee, a somewhat utilitarian piece upholstered in stiff burgundy leather, and he sat with his legs spread. He let his gaze travel over her with pure s.e.xual appraisal. aBefore I agree to anything, I want a sample of what youare offering.a She stiffened. aI think youave sampled quite enough already.a aYouare referring to our interlude in the woods this evening?a He made his voice very soft, while his heart pounded violently in his chest. aThat was nothing, Lottie. I want more than a few innocent kisses from you. Keeping a mistress can be an expensive propositiona"youall have to prove that youare worth it.a She came to him slowly, her slim form silhouetted in the firelight. Clearly she knew that he was playing some kind of game with her, but she hadnat yet realized what the stakes were. aWhat do you want from me?a she asked softly.

What head had from Gemma. No,more than Gemma had ever given him. He wanted someone to belong to him. To care about him. To need him in some way. He didnat know if that was possibleabut he was willing to gamble everything on Lottie. She was his only chance.

aIall show you.a Nick reached out and caught her wrist, pulling until she half-sat, half-toppled beside him. Sliding a hand behind the nape of her neck, he bent over her, finding her pulse with the tip of his tongue. At the same time, he brought her hand to his crotch, cupping her slender fingers around the straining shape of his erection. She stiffened and gasped, suddenly leaning against his chest as if her strength had deserted her. Gently he drew her hand up the length of his shaft, to the round head that pushed impatiently against the taut broadcloth.

A ragged sound escaped him, and he tugged at her blouse, filled with grat.i.tude to whoever had designed a garment that made a womanas body so mercifully accessible. Her exposed b.r.e.a.s.t.s gleamed in the firelight, their tips soft and pale pink. Lottie turned her face to the side, her eyes tightly closed. Pulling her farther over his lap, Nick cradled her in one arm, while her bottom rested on the rigid mound of his erection. His calloused fingers slipped beneath one bare breast, lifting the silken weight to position her for the slow descent of his mouth. A quiver went through her as he opened his lips over the tender nipple, stroking until it strained against his tongue. Lottieas hands half-raised as if to push him away, but suddenly her fingers clutched around the lapels of his coat, and she let out a whimper of pleasure. The sound electrified him. He used his tongue to trace circles around the stiffening nipple, making her writhe like a cat in his arms.

While he continued to suckle and tease her b.r.e.a.s.t.s, he slid his hand beneath her skirts, finding the plain hem of her drawers and the thick cotton garter that fastened her stockings. Becoming aware of the hand that intruded beneath her skirts, Lottie clenched her legs together, a crimson blush spreading over her face and b.r.e.a.s.t.s. He caressed her over the crumpled linen, sliding his palm over her hip and stomach, then moving to the soft curls lower down.

aDonat,a she said, her eyes still closed.

Nick kissed the pink curve of her throat and the fine edge of her jaw. Her skin was so thin and satiny that it was almost translucent. He wanted to kiss her from head to toe. aThatas not how a mistress talks,a he whispered. aAre you reneging on your offer, Lottie?a She shook her head, unable to speak as his palm pressed on her mound.

aThen spread your legs.a She complied jerkily, her thighs parting, her head falling back against his supportive arm. He caressed her over the fragile fabric, gently rubbing the hot furrow until the linen became damp beneath his fingers. He was aroused by her efforts to stay quiet and still, her face turning scarlet, her legs stiffening as he teased her intimately. Finally she moaned and clutched at his wrist imploringly.

aThatas enough,a she gasped.

His c.o.c.k pulsed violently beneath her. aIs it?a he whispered, sliding his fingers into the open slit of her drawers. aI think you want more.a Her body jerked in his lap as he found softly matted hairaplump silken fleshathe wet entrance to her body. Kissing the arch of her throat, Nick played with the velvety thicket. aSweet little curls,a he breathed near Lottieas ear. aWhat color are they, I wonder? Blond, like the hair on your head? Or darker?a Shocked by the question, Lottie stared at him with an unfocused gaze.

aItas all right,a he said, opening the soft cleft. aIall find out for myselfalater.a She arched as he found the tender peak that had been hidden by the protective folds. aOhaoh, G.o.da"a aShhhh.a He nipped the lobe of her ear. aYou donat want Westcliff to hear, do you?a aStop that,a she said shakily.

But nothing would stop him now. He caressed her skillfully, circling the point of delicate fire. Her b.u.t.tocks lifted away from the hard length of his erection as her hips strained toward his hand. He brushed the swollen bud with the calloused tip of his thumb and slid his middle finger inside her, until it was completely submerged in the luscious channel.

Lottieas breath shortened, and her thighs clamped around his hand as he thrust and withdrew his finger in an easy rhythm. He felt her inner muscles tauten as she labored and twisted, fighting instinctively for release from the excruciating tension. Nick lowered his head to her b.r.e.a.s.t.s once more. The tips were taut and rosy now, and he blew against one of them softly before drawing it into his mouth. With his finger sunk inside her, and her nipple throbbing against his tongue, he experienced a triumph he had never known before.

Lottie struggled helplessly as climax remained elusive, a moan of frustration escaping her. Withdrawing his finger from the sweet depths of her body, Nick settled his damp hand on her taut stomach, rubbing in soothing circles. aIall take care of you later,a he murmured. aI promise.a Lottie moaned again, arching desperately against his hand. He knew what she wanted, and he longed to give it to her. His nostrils flared as he detected the heady perfume of female desire. Heat pumped through him, and he nearly lost all self-control as he thought of burying his face between her thighs, plunging his tongue inside hera He shuddered as he forced himself to pull her skirts down, covering the sweet flesh he craved. Westcliff was waiting nearby, and now was not the time or place to indulge himself further. Later there would be time to make love to Lottie at his leisure.Patience , he counseled himself, taking a few steadying breaths.

Lottie crawled from his arms and huddled at the opposite end of the settee. She was gorgeously tousled, her cheeks dewy and deeply flushed in the flickering light. Fumbling with her bodice, she covered her b.r.e.a.s.t.s.

Their gazes met, hers bright with shame, his frankly calculating. And then Nick went in for the kill. aI do want you,a he said. aIn fact, I would probably stoop at nothing to get you. But I donat want you as a mistress. I want full, irrevocable owners.h.i.+p. Everything that you would have given to Radnor, or Westcliff.a Realizing what he meant, Lottie stared at him as if he were a lunatic. It took a full half-minute for her to recover enough to speak. aDo you mean marriage? What difference would there be between marrying you or Lord Radnor?a aThe difference is that Iam letting you choose.a aWhy would you be willing to shackle yourself to me for a lifetime?a The truth was something that Nick could never admit to her. aBecause I want the convenience of a wife,a he lied. aAnd youall do as well as any other woman.a She sucked in a breath of outrage.

aMake your choice,a Nick advised. aYou can keep running, or you can become someoneas wife. Mine or Radnoras.a She gave him another one of those long, searching stares that made the hair on the back of his neck rise. d.a.m.n, he hated it when she did that. Once again he could not blink or look away, and she appeared to read his thoughts in spite of his will to conceal them.

aYours,a she said stiffly. aIall be yours.a And he let out a slow, nearly imperceptible sigh of relief.

Lottie struggled from his lap and straightened her clothes. She went to pour herself some brandy from the crystal decanter at the mahogany sideboard. She was dizzy, and her knees felt like jelly, which were good indications that more spirits were the last thing she needed. Moreover, she was still technically Lord Westcliffas servant, and no one in such a position would ever think of helping herself to some of the masteras liquor. On the other hand, such distinctions had become blurred after the stunning revelations of the evening. She was bemused by the realization that she had received two marriage proposals in one night from vastly different men.

And the things that Nick Gentry had just done to hera"no, she would not think about that now, while her body still throbbed with the echoes of shameful pleasure. Filling the gla.s.s liberally, Lottie grimaced and gulped the fine vintage.

Gentry came to her, taking the gla.s.s after she had downed half its contents. aIn a minute youare going to be as drunk as a wheelbarrow.a aDoes it matter?a she asked hoa.r.s.ely, watching as he finished the brandy for her.

aI suppose not.a As she swayed before him, he set aside the empty snifter and caught her waist in his hands. A self-mocking smile touched his lips. aG.o.d knows any woman would need to fortify herself after agreeing to become my wife.a A demanding thump rattled the door, and Lord Westcliff entered the room. His sharp gaze settled on the two of them standing so close together, and one thick brow arched quizzically.

Gentryas hands tightened on Lottieas waist as she tried to step away from him. aYou may be the first to congratulate us,a he told the earl, in a nasty parody of a gentlemanly announcement. aMiss Howard has done me the honor of bestowing her hand on me.a Lord Westcliffas eyes narrowed as he glanced at Lottie. aThatis the third option?a aAs it turns out,a she said unsteadily, ayes.a Lottie knew that the earl did not understand why she would be willing to make a bargain with the devil. Returning his gaze, she begged him silently not to request an explanation, as she would be unable to account for her reasons. She was tired of hiding, worrying, and being afraid. Nick Gentry had offered her sanctuary. He was unprincipled, callous, and worldlya"exactly the kind of man who could protect her from Radnor. But all of that would not have been sufficient to compel her to marry him. One other factor had made the differencea"her awareness that Gentry felt something for her. He was not able to hide it despite his efforts to the contrary. And against all better judgment, she wanted him. Or at least, she wanted the man he had pretended to beathe one who had stared at her with such desperate intensity as theyad stood by the wis.h.i.+ng wellathe one who had kissed her in the forest and whispered that he needed her.

Frowning, the earl came forward and reached for her. aI want a word with you, Lottie.a She nodded obediently, out of long-standing habit. aYes, sir.a When Gentry did not release her, she shot him a challenging gaze. aI havenat married you yet,a she said beneath her breath. aLet me go.a His hands slid from her waist. Lottie went to the earl, who took her elbow in a light grasp and drew her with him to the corner. His respectful touch was strikingly different from Gentryas rampant possessiveness.

Lord Westcliff looked down at her, a lock of dark hair tumbling over his broad forehead. aLottie,a he said quietly, ayou canat make such a decision without understanding more about the man youare giving yourself to. Do not be deceived by the fact that Gentry is a Bow Street runner. No doubt you think his profession imparts a certain sense of honor, even heroism. In Nick Gentryas case, the opposite is true. He is, and always has been, a figure of public controversy.a aIn what way?a Lottie asked, glancing at the dark figure on the other side of the room. Gentry was drinking another brandy, pretending to inspect a row of books. The sullen curve of his mouth made it clear that he knew perfectly well what Westcliff was telling her.

aGentry has only been a runner for the past two or three years. Before that, he was a crime lord masquerading as a private thief-taker. He ran an infamous corporation of thieves and was arrested numerous times for fraud, thievery, receivers.h.i.+p, and manufacturing evidence. I can guarantee that he is acquainted with every criminal of note in England. Despite his apparent reformation, there are many who believe that he still has illicit dealings with many of his former cohorts in the underworld. He is not to be trusted, Lottie.a She tried to show no reaction to the information, but she was inwardly stunned. Glancing around Westcliffas broad shoulder, she viewed the Bow Street runneras menacing form as he lounged in the darkest corner of the study. He seemed more comfortable in the shadows, his eyes gleaming like a catas. How could a man only in his late twenties have had such a varied career? Crime lord, thief-takerawhat in G.o.das namewas he?

aMiss HowardaLottieaa The earl recaptured her attention with a quiet murmur. aYou must consider my proposal once more. I believe the arrangement would benefit us both. I give you my word that I would be a kind husband, and that you would want for nothinga"a aMy lord,a she interrupted earnestly, aI hope you will not regard my refusal as an indication of anything other than my great respect for you. You are the most honorable man I have ever knowna"and that is why I would never consign you to a loveless marriage. You cannot deny, my lord, that I would not be your first choice, were you seeking a wife. And if I did you the injustice of accepting your offer, we would both regret it someday. Mr. Gentry and I are far more suited to each other, as neither of us will regard it as a true marriage, but rather as a business transaction in whichaa Her cheeks burned as she forced herself to finish. aIn which one service is exchanged for another.a Westcliffas face was grim. aYouare not cynical or hardened enough to tolerate such an arrangement.a aUnfortunately, my lord, I am indeed that hardened. Because of Lord Radnor, Iave never had the hopes and dreams that many other women do. Iave never expected to be happy in marriage.a aYou still deserve better than this,a he insisted.

She smiled without humor. aDo you think so? Iam not so certain.a Breaking away from him, Lottie strode to the center of the study and stared at Gentry expectantly. She made her manner brisk. aWhen shall we leave?a Gentry emerged from the corner. She saw from the flicker in his eyes that he had half-expected her to change her mind after speaking with Westcliff. Now that her choice had been reaffirmed, there was no turning back.

aNow,a he said softly.

Her lips parted in the beginnings of an objection. Gentry intended to sweep her away without allowing any opportunity to say good-bye to anyone in the household, not even Lady Westcliff. On the other hand, it would be easier for her to simply disappear without having to explain anything to anyone. aIsnat it rather dangerous to travel at night?a she asked, then quickly answered her own question. aNever mind. If we met with a highwayman, I would probably be safer with him than you.a Gentry grinned suddenly. aYou may be right.a His momentary amus.e.m.e.nt was wiped away by Lord Westcliffas crisp announcement. aIf I cannot change Miss Howardas mind, I will at least require proof that the ceremony is legal. I will also demand evidence that she will be satisfactorily provided for.a Lottie realized that in all her considerations, she had actually not given a thought as to what kind of life she would have with Gentry. Good Lord. What kind of a living did a Bow Street runner earn? No doubt his salary was minimal, but surely with private commissions, he would make enough to live in a decent style. She did not require mucha"a room or two in a safe area of London would be sufficient.

aIall be d.a.m.ned if I have to account for my ability to provide for my own wife,a Gentry said. aAll you need to know is that she wonat starve, and sheall have a roof over her head.a The journey to London would last approximately twelve hours, which meant they would travel through the night and arrive in early afternoon. Lottie rested against the rich brown velvet upholstery of Gentryas well-appointed vehicle. Once they were on their way, Gentry moved to extinguish the small carriage lamp that illuminated the interior. aDo you want to sleep?a he asked. aItas a long time until morning.a Lottie shook her head. Despite her weariness, she was too agitated to relax.