Page 11 of The Devil’s Bargain (The Lovers’ Arch: Later in Life #2)

11

The Upper Hand

D evlin moved through the darkened house like a shadow, years of thievery and late-night business dealings having honed his ability to navigate unseen. He couldn’t have survived the streets if he hadn’t learned to be invisible. The servants’ entrance had been laughably easy to breach, almost too easy, a fact that both tickled and disturbed his mind.

He’d had one of his men question a maid about the layout of the house, and his feet carried him silently up the back stairs, avoiding the third step that was reported to creak. The household slept as he made his way down the carpeted corridor toward Caroline’s private chambers.

His purpose eluded even his own understanding, save for a burning need to assert some measure of mastery over the exquisite puzzle that was Caroline Thurlow. Perhaps by penetrating her sanctuary, by leaving evidence of his presence among her precious drawings, he might reclaim the advantage she’d so thoroughly stripped from him. Yet even as the thought formed, he recognised its futility. How the mighty had fallen. He, London’s most feared businessman, reduced to such childish games by a woman who continually proved more cunning than he’d imagined. Like a proud tomcat whose dignity suffered with each failed attempt to catch an unusually clever mouse, he found himself simultaneously frustrated and captivated by her ability to elude his grasp.

Devlin stood by her chamber door and confirmed absolute silence. Then he turned the doorknob.

The door opened without a sound. In the pitch darkness, he took two steps forward and found himself suddenly seized by multiple pairs of strong hands. Before he could react, they had him pinned and bound spread-eagle to what he presumed was Caroline’s bed. The efficiency of the operation spoke of careful planning.

A match struck, and warm lamplight filled the room. Caroline emerged from behind a screen, looking entirely too pleased with herself. She wore a proper high-necked nightgown, but her hair tumbled loose around her shoulders in a way that made his breath catch despite his predicament.

“Tsk, tsk, Mr Elmstone.” She circled the bed slowly, tapping one finger against her lips. “Breaking and entering? How very ungentlemanly of you.” Her tone carried all the prim disapproval of a schoolmistress catching a student in mischief.

Devlin tested his bonds—silk ropes, he noted with appreciation—and found them expertly tied. He couldn’t help but laugh, genuinely impressed. “I should have known you’d be three steps ahead, my Caroline. I must say, this is quite the welcome.”

“Did you really think I wouldn’t have contingencies in place?” She perched on the edge of the bed, just out of his reach. “I’ve had men watching the house since our encounter at Madame Tansley’s.”

“Clever girl.” His dark eyes glittered with admiration. “Though I do wonder what you plan to do with me now that you have me at your mercy.”

“Oh, I have several ideas.” She stood and nodded to the men who had ambushed him. They filed out silently, closing the door behind them. “First, we’re going to have a conversation about Clearwater Engineering & Filtration Company. And you’re going to tell me everything.”

Devlin’s smile widened. This woman continuously surprised him, matched him move for move. It was intoxicating. “And if I refuse?”

“Then you can explain to London society why you were found tied to a widow’s bed in the middle of the night in her absence. Possibly with one of my men between your legs.” She raised an eyebrow. “Even your reputation might suffer a little.”

“You delightful little serpent.” He relaxed against his bonds, oddly thrilled by this turn of events. “I do believe I’m falling in love.”

“Don’t be too hasty. So which is your backup plan? Me or Clearwater?”

“You, my backup? Never. You’ve always been my utmost priority.”

She raised her brows and shook her head. “You can stop trying to charm me. Flattery won’t get you anywhere near your goal.”

“I had to devise a plan to fall back on in case you happen to be the only woman who could resist my charms.”

“You realise I may have forgiven you for pursuing another company, but to bid against me on municipal projects?”

“I don’t know where you’re obtaining your information from, but they were overzealous. I have not bid against you. I was merely doing my research so I could help you when the time came.”

She scoffed. “Such touching concern for my welfare. Tell me, do you practice these pretty falsehoods before a mirror, or do they come naturally to you?”

He grinned, delighted. “There is an easy solution to all your business problems, you know.”

“I’m not selling my shares.”

She stood and walked away from him. His eyes raked over her rearend appreciatively. He tilted his head. In certain angles, he could see her silhouette beneath the silk nightgown. He wondered if it was one of her ploys, to entice him with her form. Somehow, he couldn’t imagine Caroline Thurlow as a seductress. Clever strategist, yes. A tormentor? Absolutely. But seductress?

He cleared his throat. “Wonderful. We can be partners.”

She looked heavenward. “That didn’t take her very long.”

“To be truthful, she hasn’t confirmed. I still have more work to do. I believe she will milk me for all she can before signing on the dotted line. Would you like to help me choose the jewellery I’m to bribe her with? And perhaps a diamond necklace with matching earrings for you.”

Her gaze was scathing, and he laughed, feeling like a fool. He was tied up in the most undignified manner but couldn’t help finding his captor as delightful as the first morning coffee.

“Would you like to help me choose the jewellery I’m to bribe her with? And perhaps a diamond necklace with matching earrings for you.”

“Empty promises won’t loosen these bonds, Mr Elmstone.”

“Back to formalities? After I’ve made such an intimate visit to your bedchamber?” His voice dropped to that silken purr that had haunted her dreams since their encounter at Madame Tansley’s. “And here I thought we were becoming friends.”

“Is this how you and your friends play together?” Her eyes roved over his bound form with appreciation. His thick thighs and calves were impressive indeed, and their power was undeniable. Feeling heat rise to her face, she moved to her dressing table and poured two glasses of brandy. “Now, about Clearwater...”

“Ah yes, back to business.” He watched her approach with the glass. “And how do you propose I drink while bound?”

She smiled sweetly as she perched beside him. “I suppose I’ll have to assist you.” She brought the glass to his lips, careful not to spill. “Consider it incentive for honesty.”

He took a slow sip, maintaining eye contact. Caroline admired his wide mouth with a hint of smile in the corners. “You know, most women try to kiss information out of me. Sometimes exposing their bosom gets the job done. This is a refreshing change of pace.”

“I’m not most women.” She set the glass aside then climbed onto the bed while he watched with widened eyes. “And you’re not most men. Which is why I knew you’d find being bound as seductive as if I were to undress.”

He raised a brow. “Only the combination of the two would render this seduction, Caroline. Otherwise, I’m merely a captive at your mercy.”

“Your outlook is disappointing,” she said slyly.

There was genuine admiration in his eyes as his gaze raked over her face and hair. They travelled downward and lingered at her chest, no doubt noticing her coiled nipples. She could already feel her nerves tingling there just by the way he admired her. She unbuttoned his coat slowly and watched his questioning expression. The devil was charming, but she tried to maintain a detached facade.

Then her lips parted as her eyes took in his shirt stretching over his chest.

“I have to wonder, what would you have done if I hadn’t taken the bait?”

“Oh, I had several contingency plans.” She patted his chest lightly then proceeded to unbutton his shirt. “I do love to be thorough in my preparations.”

“Just as I love a worthy opponent.” His eyes held a dangerous gleam. She was rewarded with a grunt when she lowered her bottom onto his thigh, tantalisingly close to his stiffening member. He swallowed but managed to keep his voice even. “You should know, Caroline. I don’t play unless I know I’ll win.”

“Neither do I, Mr Elmstone.” She leaned closer, her loose hair brushing his bare chest, her lips mere inches away from his. “Neither do I.”

“Careful, Caroline.” His voice roughened. “You’re playing with fire.”

Her hip pressed slightly against his impressive length as she shifted forward. She gasped quietly at the contact when the thick ridge dug into her flesh. Moisture began to pool between her thighs. Focus, she told herself.

“Am I? I rather thought I was playing with the devil himself.” She traced a finger along his jaw, feeling the rough stubble. Her thumb then traced his soft lips. “Tell me about Clearwater’s bid. What’s their angle?”

“And if I do? What’s my reward for such cooperation?” His voice came out breathless.

“Your freedom, of course. Unless you prefer to remain bound in my bed until morning? Or Miss Hampton’s company?”

He laughed, the sound rich and genuine. “No need to be jealous of her. You could always take advantage of me.”

“I shall,” she said, brushing her bottom against his rod. Heat pooled in his eyes.

“You wench…” he groaned.

She slid off his thigh and sat back on her heels, parting her knees as she did so. His eyes lingered between her thighs then flicked back up.

He shifted slightly, testing his bonds, his stiff rod extending down his thigh beneath the tight buckskin breeches. “Perhaps we could trade. A secret for a secret. A truth for a truth. After all...” His dark gaze caressed her face. “We’re both players in this game, are we not?”

Caroline recognised the danger in his offer, but found herself tempted nonetheless. What other choice did she have? This man could destroy everything she’d built or help her build something even greater. The question was: could she trust him?

“Very well.” She straightened, adopting her business manner despite her state of undress. “I’ll tell you how I developed the latest modification to the filtration system. The one that increased efficiency by thirty percent.”

“Intriguing.” His voice dropped lower. “But I need more specific parameters. Which innovation exactly? The copper alloy modification or the pressure distribution system?”

Caroline’s eyes widened slightly. He’d done his research thoroughly. “You know about both?”

“I make it my business to understand the intricacies of what I pursue.” His smile was smug.

She leaned closer, impressed despite herself. “Very observant. What else have you deduced about my work?”

“The copper alloy’s composition is fascinating.” His bound fingers flexed. “I’ve had my metallurgists analyse samples. They’re baffled.”

“And what makes you think I’d share that secret?”

“Because I know about the aluminium shortage affecting your suppliers. I could help with that... if we’re trading valuable information.”

Caroline’s breath caught. She stood abruptly, pacing beside the bed. “You’ve been watching my supply chain.”

“Among other things.”

“Very thorough,” she murmured. “And what would you offer for my copper alloy composition?”

“Details about Clearwater’s new purification process. The one they’re planning to unveil next month.” His smile widened at her sharp intake of breath. “Yes, I know about that too. Though I suspect their efficiency claims are... optimistic.”

“Because they don’t account for sediment accumulation,” they said simultaneously.

Their eyes met, and something electric passed between them. It was one thing to fence with business intelligence, but this deep technical understanding felt far more intimate. That he could grasp not just the principles but the elegance of her work was intoxicating. For a man who had forced his way into her life through manipulation to continuously show such deep appreciation of her mind, this ability to engage with her innovations... it complicated everything. And from the intense way he studied her face, she suspected he felt it too, this unexpected meeting of minds that seemed to transcend their battle of wills.

She sat back on the bed, closer this time. “You really have been paying attention.”

“To every detail.” His intense gaze held hers. “Including how your eyes light up when you talk about your innovations. Like they are now.”

Heat spread to her nape. “You’re trying to distract me.”

“No, I’m trying to show you something. My obsession with understanding every aspect of your genius.” His voice roughened. “Now, about that aluminium shortage...”

Caroline found herself leaning closer, drawn in by his astute observations and probing questions. Here was a man who could match her mind as well as stir her body.

Once they had traded their promised secrets, Caroline shifted closer, her nightgown whispering against the silk sheets. With deliberate slowness, she reached for the rope that bound one of his ankles. “I find myself curious about something.”

“Oh?”

“You seem remarkably comfortable in restraints for a man who’s used to being in control.” Her fingers traced the rope’s path down to his ankle. “One might almost think you’re enjoying this position.”

“Perhaps I am.” His eyes followed her movements. “Though I must admit, I’m more intrigued by this bold side of you. The proper widow, tying up a man to extract his secrets.”

“Who says I’m only after secrets?” In one fluid motion, she straddled his thigh, her nightgown riding up to reveal a glimpse of stocking. “Perhaps I want to understand how the great Devlin Elmstone operates. What… stimulates him.” She leaned forward, her loose hair brushing his bare chest. “What makes him... surrender.”

His breath stilled. “Dangerous game, Caroline.”

“I excel at dangerous games.” She traced a finger down his chest, feeling his muscles tense beneath her touch.

“You magnificent creature,” he growled.

Her lips brushed his ear. “I want to see how much control you really have.”

“I’m still bound,” he reminded her, though his voice had roughened considerably.

“Yes, you are.” Her fingers traced patterns on his stomach. “Perfect position to answer my questions.”

His laugh was strained. “You’re ruthless.”

“Thoroughly.” She shifted slightly, knowing exactly how the movement would affect him. “I admit to being tempted to test your composure in more... creative ways.”

“I do believe I’ve created a monster,” he murmured, but his eyes blazed with admiration and hunger. “Though I must say, seeing this side of you...” His voice roughened as she shifted against him. “The strategist and seductress combined—you’re devastating.”

Caroline traced a finger down his falls, feeling his member twitch beneath her buttocks. “The mighty Devlin Elmstone, brought low by a mere woman?” Her nightgown slipped off one shoulder, revealing the curve of her collarbone. “What would London society say?”

“They’d say I’ve met my match.” His heated eyes followed the path of her exposed skin. “Though I doubt they’d believe the proper Mrs Thurlow capable of such delicious wickedness.”

A moan escaped his throat as she rocked slightly against him.

She brushed her lips along his jaw, narrowly avoiding his lips as he turned his head to capture her mouth. “I enjoy having London’s most dangerous man at my mercy.”

“Dangerous?” he rasped as her bottom pressed firmly against his member. “I’m as docile as a drunk mouse compared to you.”

She sat back, studying him with hooded eyes. “What really drew you here? You could have any woman you want in this town. Why sneak into my bedchamber unless you meant me harm?”

“No. You can’t believe I’m capable of harming you.” His voice was urgent. “What drew me is the woman who created an empire from the shadows. Who outmanoeuvred every man in the room while they underestimated her. Who tied me to her bed and made me want her more for it. I wanted to see you, know you, learn you.”

Heat pooled in her belly at his words. But a part of her questioned the truthfulness of his statements, his motive.

“You’re magnificent, Caroline. I’ve never met anyone like you.”

Suddenly overwhelmed by the intensity in his gaze, she leaned forward and pressed her lips to his. “Hush. You’re supposed to be my captive, not...” She trailed off, unsure how to name this dangerous feeling building between them.

“Not what?” His lips curved under hers. “Not make you feel deep in your core?”

Caroline couldn’t breathe. She should move away, maintain control of the situation.

She withdrew enough to see the heat in his eyes. “Mr Elmstone...”

“Devlin,” he corrected softly. “Say my name, Caroline. Let me hear again how it sounds on your lips.”

“Devlin.” She watched his pupils dilate at her whisper. He strained upward, bringing his face closer to hers.

She distanced herself from him, rocking gently over his member. He satisfied her with a moan.

She eyed him suspiciously. “You’re still trying to gain the upper hand.”

“No. I’m trying to show you the man you’d be partnering with, if you’d allow me. That we could be equals in every sense.”

Her fingers traced his length over his breeches as his groan rumbled from his throat. He tilted his head back and closed his eyes. “You’re killing me slowly, Caroline.”

“And if I untie you? What then?”

His smile was pure sin. “Then I’ll show you exactly what kind of partnership I have in mind.”

“Such confidence.” Caroline moved to the rope at his ankle, deliberately sliding against him as she reached down. “But I rather enjoy having you at my mercy.”

His muscles tensed as her fingers worked the knot. “Did you take such pleasure in tormenting your late husband?”

She paused at the question. “He never gave me the chance. Hampton came into our marriage soon after the wedding.” She freed his ankle but let her hand linger on his calf, feeling the power in his muscles.

“He was a bigger fool than I thought,” he murmured.

She shrugged. “He saw me as competition, someone who made him feel inferior. I doubt he would have reacted well to my binding him.” She smiled sweetly at him. “I must say, you’re handling captivity with remarkable grace.”

“Perhaps because my captor is so enchanting.” His voice roughened as she slowly moved up his body to the rope at his other wrist. “Though I’m beginning to think you’re enjoying this position of power a little too much.”

She leaned over him to reach the knot, letting her nipple brush his lips. She moaned faintly at the sensation. Then she felt his lips on her breast over the night rail, his warm breath sending shivers down her spine.

“Caroline...” Her name was half warning, half plea.

“Yes?” She paused in her work, looking down at him. “Is something wrong?”

“You know exactly what you’re doing.” His gaze blazed up at her. “And you know exactly what will happen when you finish untying me.”

She bit her lip, pretending to consider. “Perhaps I should leave you bound a little longer then.” Her fingers traced the rope without untying it. “Since you’re making such delicious threats.”

“They’re not threats.” His voice dropped to that silken purr that made her shiver. “They’re promises. And you’re only making it worse for yourself, my brilliant vixen.”

“Worse?” She raised an eyebrow, her fingers working the knot with deliberate slowness. “Or better?”

As the rope fell away, his hand shot up to tangle in her hair, holding her in place above him. “That depends entirely on your perspective. Are you ready to surrender your advantage?”

“I never surrender,” she breathed.

Before she could say more, he pulled her down and captured her lips with his. The kiss was electric—demanding yet reverent, as if he meant to possess her and worship her all at once. Caroline gasped against his mouth, and he took advantage, deepening the kiss until she melted against him.

His free hand untied the remaining knot and slid down her back, pulling her closer as his mouth explored hers with devastating thoroughness. She hadn’t known a kiss could feel like this, like drowning and burning at once, like every nerve ending had come alive. When his teeth grazed her bottom lip, she couldn’t suppress a soft moan.

“My brilliant Caroline,” he murmured against her mouth. “Do you have any idea what you do to me?”

The raw need in his voice sent heat pooling in her belly. But even as she surrendered to his kiss, her strategic mind didn’t desert her entirely. This was power too—having this ruthless man trembling with desire beneath her.

With tremendous effort, she pulled back, placing a finger against his lips when he tried to follow. “I believe that’s enough negotiation for one night.”

His eyes blazed. “You can’t mean that.”

She sat up, adjusting her nightgown with deliberate precision. “I never mix business with pleasure, Mr Elmstone.” The return to formality made him growl low in his throat. “At least... not until all contracts are signed.”

“You wicked creature.” He propped himself up on his elbows, his shirt still open, hair delightfully mussed. “You planned this all along, didn’t you?”

She stood, smoothing her night rail. “A lady never reveals her strategies. Though I will say, I look forward to our future... negotiations.”

His chuckle sounded like despair. He lay back on the bed, rubbing his face with both hands.

She paused at the door to her dressing room. Her eyes longingly raked over his dishevelled form one last time. “My men will see you out. You may use the front door, unless you prefer the servants’ stairs.”

His laugh was equal parts frustration and admiration. “Well played. But remember...” His voice dropped to a low rumble. “Next time, I won’t be so easily bound.”

“Next time?” She arched an eyebrow. “Rather optimistic, Mr Elmstone.”

“Devlin,” he corrected softly. “And yes, next time. We both know this is far from over.”

Caroline slipped through the door, but not before allowing herself one last lingering look. “Good night... Devlin.”

She closed the door on his hungry gaze, her heart thundering in her chest. Only when she was safely in her dressing room did she press her fingers to her lips, which were still tingling from his kiss.