Page 68 of An Imperfect Scoundrel

“I find that difficult to believe,” she murmured, flinching when he advanced around the corner, backing her against the desk.

“A man who hurts a lesser creature is a coward,” he growled. “But a woman who is a thief is still a criminal.”

“I didn’t steal anything!” Her hands flew to his chest, pushing against the hard muscle. “You can search my clothing… and me.”

“If I search you, we will have other issues,” he replied, his hard stance relaxing.

“To satisfy your mind, and that of your crew, you must do what you think is necessary.”

“I’m certain it’s not necessary to search your body.” He cupped her face, his thumb gently sliding over the bruise. She winced. “I’m sorry for that.”

“I don’t blame you.” Leaning into his hand, the sensation was oddly comforting. “You thought I was a man. I suppose I did mislead you… a bit.”

“A bit?” He snorted and dropped his hand. “I think you put a great deal of effort into your disguise. Where did you get the clothing?”

“Most of the items belonged to my late husband. The rest are my brother’s.”

“Ah, Dubois was your husband’s name,” he replied, leaning against the desk. “That’s why I won’t find his family in Wiltshire.”

Reaching back, Captain Shaw grabbed the bottle of whiskey and uncorked the top. Taking a long sip, he wordlessly passed the bottle to her.

“Are you going to throw me overboard?” she asked, accepting the bottle.

“No.” He exhaled slowly and bent at the waist, his fingers rubbing his temples, then glanced over at her. “You’ve put us both in a complicated position. The crew will not be as forgiving once they learn your true identity.”

“Can I not remain in your cabin until we reach…” She paused, taking a drink. Coughing, she handed the bottle back to him.

“Ceresus?”

“Yes. Where is that?”

“The Caribbean. How will you avoid detection? You didn’t last three days with me.”

“I would have if you didn’t accuse me of theft!” she snapped, yanking the bottle back and taking another sip. “May I get dressed?”

His eyes slid over her body. Groaning, he stepped away from her, turning his back.

“You may.”

“What about the gold?” She set the bottle on the desk and collected her clothing, hastily pulling on her shirt.

“I’m satisfied with your innocence. However, that means there’s a thief among us, and my men will not be content until the culprit is punished.”

“Who are your suspects?” she asked, stepping into her trousers and yanking them up her legs.

“You,” he replied, spinning back. “Such a pity, I had hoped for one more glimpse.”

“There is no need to be polite.” She blushed, tugging on the shirt. “I’m certain someone of your character has been with many beautiful women.”

“You have been misled.” Reaching out, he gently tipped her chin, his finger tracing her lips, and a tingling sensation raced through her spine. “I rarely entertain women, and none of them were as lovely as you.”

She eyed him warily. “What are you going to do?”

“Kiss you.”

Bending his head, he pressed his mouth to hers… and an inferno exploded between them.

Wrapping her arms around his neck, she drew him closer, the intoxicating scent of his skin surrounding her. His tongue pushed between her lips, demanding, controlling, and stole her breath. Her head swam from the sensuous assault, and knees wobbling, she pulled away and sagged against the desk.