Page 138 of For a Scot's Heart Only

“We know each other’s sins, don’t we? But you and I have something in common—a deep affection for our mothers. I’ve devoted nineteen years to honor my mother’s dying wish. I’m certain you would do the same for your mother. At least she’s alive. Enjoy that, my lord”—she put a firm chin forward—“and accept the terms I’m offering.”

Ranleigh tipped his head, respect bright in his eyes. “Enjoy this, Miss Fletcher. You are the only woman to defeat me in this chess game I play.”

“Checkmate, my lord.”

Ranleigh huffed his discontent. He bowed, and upon rising, he said to Thomas, “Marry her before she gets away.”

“I intend to.”

Ranleigh turned on his heel and was two steps forward when Mary suddenly called to him. “Wait. There is one thing, my lord. A favor, if you please.”

Ranleigh halted, his back twitching under the best great coat money could buy. The dark lord pivoted, autumn winds mussing his superbly styled queue.

“This should be good.”

Mary sucked in a quick breath as though she grabbed fresh courage.

“I want you to arrange for a special dispensation for West and Sons Shipping. Guaranteed insurance. Next year only.”

Thomas winced. “Mary, we didn’t agree to this.”

She touched his coat, her moonstone eyes tender. “You don’t have to take it, but it’s there, if you want it.”

“A special dispensation?” Ranleigh laughed in disbelief.

“Please, my lord.” Mary was bold, stepping forward. “Today has been a harsh blow to your cousin, and I gave that to you.”

“Thank you for that, but I wanted those papers.”

“To feed the awful revenge that keeps growing between you and your cousin.” Mary hesitated, hugging the folio to her chest. “Isn’t it time to be the better person? To show... kindness?”

“Kindness?” Ranleigh snorted. “You are a rare one, Miss Fletcher.”

“Please...”

Thomas strode forward. He’d not have her beg on his behalf.

The dark lord’s mouth firmed, but his gaze eased. “I can already hear the sphincters at Whitehall tightening. Very well. I’ll seek one on your behalf, but I make no promises.”

“That’s all I ask,” she said.

Thomas touched Mary’s elbow, and watched Ranleigh depart. Miss Thelen climbed down off her perch and into the carriage.

The folio Mary held was empty. It was bait to ensure they got out of their carriage. The damning papers had been safely hidden away. Lady Denton and her cousin were in a bitter tug-of-war. The countess had uncovered proof that Ranleigh’s mother had been a smuggler and had killed a man—a peer, supposedly in self-defense. The stain, however, could ruin her. Lord Julian Ranleigh would move heaven and earth to protect his mother.

Lady Denton’s file was darker. Very few menwere on the board of governors of the East India Company; the Earl of Denton once had a seat at the table until he died. Lady Denton’s son would take his father’s place once he came of age.

Yet, her son was not an heir of the body. She’d bought him from a Scottish couple with similar coloring and features to her own and the earl’s.

It had been a shock to read this. But the lady’s purpose was clear. The countess could control her son—his wealth and his vote on the East India Company board of governors. If he dared to challenge her, he’d lose his title and become a pariah. This had to be why she kept such damning papers. And Ranleigh? Thomas suspected the dark lord wanted those papers to control the hapless young earl. It was possible, but he no longer cared.

Wind battered him and Mary, standing on Gun Wharf. He wrapped her cloak about her and signaled for the men to come down off the roofs. There were jovial calls to grab a pint at the Iron Bell. Thomas and Mary were invited, but for the moment he wanted her all to himself.

They watched ships gliding through the water, their bodies molded together. Mary settled her head against his chest. He lashed an arm around her waist, liking the feel of her against him.

He kissed the crown of her head, a blustery breeze knocking her curls. Though patience was a virtue, he’d not wait much longer to make her Mrs. West.

“I don’t know what our future holds, but I do know that I love you,” he said.