Page 8 of The Taming of the Countess

CHAPTER EIGHT

O n her wedding day, Evangeline had considered so many reasons why she should refuse to wed Lord Penford. First, he didn’t truly want to marry her. He desired her, yes. The kiss had revealed that much. But he didn’t want a wife or children.

Which was her second reason for wanting to call it off. She did want a child. She wanted a house full of them, especially sons and daughters who would fill the rooms with laughter and messes. The thought of a childless marriage brought a physical ache within her.

She didn’t know if she could go through with this.

Why had James agreed to this farce of a marriage? He’d claimed that he wanted to protect her, that she could continue her work and do as she pleased. But how empty that life seemed.

If she had any courage at all, she would defy everyone. Run away and disappear. Her imagination conjured up a vision of taking a carriage and then a ship somewhere far away.

But then, that was a coward’s path. So many people relied upon her family for their livelihood. If anything happened to her family’s business, they would suffer for it. And she knew James was right. If she married him, the gossip would die down, leaving her business intact. He could reveal to the authorities that Dunwood had tried to attack her, and that she had only defended herself.

Evie waited inside the vicarage beside the small chapel her father had chosen for the wedding. With every minute that passed, her nerves increased. She took a few steps towards the window, questioning what sort of life she would have now. Then outside, she caught a glimpse of a local constable strolling near the chapel. A sudden chill iced through her as she wondered whether the police would try to arrest her. Ever since the night she’d shot the viscount in the foot, her father had tightened security around the house. There were whispers of bribes that he and the duke had given to the local police, but she didn’t know how much longer they could delay the charges Lord Dunwood had threatened.

Only yesterday, the viscount had sent her a note:

Your family cannot protect you forever. You will face the consequences of your actions.

She’d burned the note immediately.

Although she didn’t want to face the truth, she understood the gravity of her situation. Her father was right; marriage to an earl made it far easier to avoid the charges of assault. And it was far better to choose the Earl of Penford than another suitor who would make unreasonable demands of her. At least they were friends.

Or she thought they were. She didn’t know why he’d kissed her. Was it pity, trying to stop her tears? It had seemed like more, though she’d told her treacherous heart to reinforce its defences. She felt so at odds, not knowing how to feel any more.

A knock sounded at the door, and her heart lurched just as she saw her mother coming inside the room. Margaret offered a warm smile and said, ‘You look lovely, Evangeline.’

She offered an answering smile of thanks. Her maid had spent hours curling and styling her hair into an elaborate arrangement with curls and flowers. Her gown was made of silk and held the slightest blush of pink. Her shoulders were bare, and the waist of her gown pointed in a deep vee before the skirts formed a bell shape. Around her throat she wore diamonds, and her maid had pinned a soft lace veil to her hair.

‘Thank you,’ she answered. ‘You look pretty, too, Mother.’

Margaret’s hair was perfectly combed into an elegant chignon, and she wore a light blue gown. Around her throat, she wore pearls and a matched set of ear bobs. Her mother’s eyes glowed with happiness, though for Evie, it wasn’t at all a day of joy. More like apprehension and worry about what lay ahead.

‘Are they ready for me?’ Evie asked.

Margaret nodded. ‘Your father is waiting to walk with you, and the vicar is here. But before we go, I wanted to be certain that you are all right. I know this…isn’t the sort of wedding you expected or wanted.’

‘No, it wasn’t.’ Before she could stop herself, she blurted out. ‘Lord Penford doesn’t want children, Mother. And I don’t know if I want to marry a man who won’t consider it. Because I do want babies of my own.’

She expected Margaret to offer excuses or sympathy. Instead, her mother’s eyes gleamed. ‘Oh, indeed. Well, he’ll soon change his mind.’ She pointed towards a package wrapped in brown paper that one of the maids had brought earlier. ‘Wear that on your wedding night, Evie, and you’ll have all the children you could possibly want.’

Evie blinked a moment, suddenly feeling embarrassed. ‘I’m…not certain we will have a wedding night, Mother.’ Most likely, they would sleep in separate rooms. And the thought was utterly disappointing.

Her mother only laughed. ‘Evie, if you are under the same roof, believe me when I say you can have whatever you want.’

She had no idea what her mother was talking about. Although she sort of knew what went on between a woman and a man—especially after the night in the garden with James—she had no idea how to seduce her own husband.

Her mother paused and ventured, ‘I’m not certain we ever talked about what you should expect, have we?’

Her cheeks burned, and Evangeline shook her head. This was not a conversation she wanted to have. ‘There’s no need. As I said, it probably won’t even happen.’

‘Evie, I don’t know what you’ve heard from others,’ her mother continued, ‘but believe me when I say, a woman holds a great deal of power in the bedroom. Why do you think women buy the unmentionables we sell? Because we can fulfil a man’s desires.’ She looked her in the eyes and said, ‘If he doesn’t offer you a wedding night, then wear this and go to him. Tell him exactly what you want, where you want to be touched. And I promise, you’ll bring him to his knees.’

Embarrassment flooded through her, though Evie ventured a nod. It was easier to pretend she understood than to argue with her mother. But the truth was, she could never bring any man to his knees. She was awkward and uncertain about herself. It was more likely that James could bring her to her knees, from the way the man kissed. It was far better than anything she’d ever imagined.

With that, her mother walked to the door and opened it. ‘Shall we go?’

Evie still couldn’t believe her mother’s advice, but she followed Margaret outside towards the chapel. Her father waited for them, and when her mother passed by, Cain leaned in to kiss her cheek. Margaret’s smile was radiant.

Evie thought it was a shame, really, that she had been their only child. A difficult pregnancy had caused her mother problems, but her parents loved her just as much as they loved each other. Their sort of marriage was the one she wanted.

Her father offered his arm, and she walked alongside him. Though his bearing was fierce, she caught the gleam of his own tears.

‘Be happy, lass,’ he muttered gruffly. ‘Or I’ll shoot him for you.’

Evie managed a smile at that. Her skin rose up with goose bumps, and her stomach twisted into nervous knots as they approached the doors. ‘Papa…am I going to be arrested for what I did to Lord Dunwood?’

He stopped in front of the chapel. ‘We’ll no’ let that happen. Your uncle Jonathan and I have delayed the charges, and after you’re wedded, Penford will handle the rest.’ His expression turned fierce. ‘Dunwood willna cause any harm to you. I swear it.’

He gripped her hand in reassurance, and she squeezed it in return. ‘Thank you.’

‘Are you ready, lass?’

She nodded, and he opened the doors to the chapel. Although it was mid-morning, her mother had arranged for candles to be placed everywhere, gleaming and filling the room with light. Hothouse roses, greenery, and holly decked the church while in the corner, a quartet of musicians played a melody reminiscent of Christmas carols.

There were only a few guests, but her best friend, Lily, was here, wearing a gown of soft green. She had agreed to be Evie’s bridesmaid, and the joy in her eyes was infectious.

‘I’m so happy for you,’ Lily whispered.

Evie gave an answering smile. Although she wished Rose could have been there, there was no time for her friend to arrive from Ireland. But at least she had one close friend here.

A knot caught within Evie’s heart when she saw the earl standing beside the vicar. Penford wore all black, his cravat snowy white. His green eyes met hers, and her heart began pounding.

This was what she’d dreamed of, years ago. She’d wanted this man, imagining that he loved her. But that young girl had learned a hard truth, and she reminded herself that this was an arrangement, nothing more. She would guard her heart and remember that this marriage wasn’t real.

The earl offered his hand, and she took it. ‘You look beautiful, Evangeline.’

Her mouth went dry, but she answered, ‘So do you.’ Then she blinked when she realised what she’d said. ‘I mean, handsome. You look handsome.’

Why in the world was she so nervous? This wasn’t a true wedding day, and there was absolutely no reason for nerves. But seeing James standing in front of her was enough to make her imagination roam freely with sinful ideas.

He looked at her as if he wanted to kiss her again. Which made her heart pound even faster.

The vicar began the ceremony, and while he prattled on, Evangeline focused her attention on James. Even now, she was transfixed by his mouth and the strong line of his jaw. She remembered what it was to feel the hard planes of his body pressed close while his mouth explored hers, his tongue sliding inside. A sudden thrill slid over her body as she imagined that mouth on her again, over the secret places that burned for his touch.

But no, that wasn’t going to happen.

‘Miss Sinclair?’ the vicar prompted.

Oh, goodness. She hadn’t heard a word of the ceremony. Was it now time for her vows? What was she supposed to say?

‘Sorry,’ she whispered.

‘Wilt thou take this man to be thy husband?’ The vicar repeated the rest of the vow, but she was entirely distracted by the warmth of Penford’s hand. Despite their gloves, she was conscious of the pressure and heat of his palm. Once again, she envisioned him taking off his glove and tracing his fingers across her bare skin.

The earl smiled at her, and she stammered out, ‘I—I will.’

Penford spoke his own wedding vows and then slid a ruby ring with a cluster of diamonds on her finger. She gaped a moment, for she’d only anticipated a single gold ring. Not something so pretty or sparkling.

The vicar finished the ceremony, and pronounced, ‘I now present to you the Earl and Countess of Penford. You may kiss your bride.’

Before Evie realised what was happening, the earl kissed her lightly. She didn’t even have time to kiss him back before it was over and her mother and father were clapping, along with Lily.

He caught her hand just as she turned. Then he reached over and tucked a wayward curl behind her ear. ‘You do look beautiful, Evangeline.’

‘Thank you.’ She blushed and added, ‘I only hope you don’t regret being forced into marriage with me. This was never my intent.’

He tucked her hand in his. ‘I know. But I also think our marriage will be anything but boring.’

She had a strong suspicion he was right.

* * *

After the wedding breakfast, the celebration, and packing all of Evie’s belongings and pets, James arranged for a coach to drive them north, towards Penford. The sooner he got her out of London, the better. They would drive for most of the afternoon and early evening before stopping at an inn.

His wife had changed into a blue travelling gown, and inside the coach, Evie had tucked a blanket around her feet. Her dog, Annabelle, snored at her feet with three puppies while her cat, Dasher, had its paws on the window and was staring outside at the snow. James hoped the weather wouldn’t cause trouble on their journey, but at least they could leave the city quickly.

It was strange to imagine that he was married now, and he’d certainly never imagined that Evie would be his. What would their life be like now? He’d promised that they would remain friends, even if they would not have a true marriage, and that they would live apart. But he couldn’t deny that she still fascinated him.

Her expression held worry while she stared outside, but her beauty was undeniable. Even when Evie had lashed out at him in the past, her blue eyes had been fiery, her cheeks flushed with colour. He rather liked it when she was rebellious. And he preferred her honesty.

‘You’re staring at me,’ she remarked. ‘Is something wrong?’

‘It’s odd to think that we’re married now.’ He leaned back and rested his feet on the opposite seat beside her.

Her cat jumped up on his lap and nestled against his legs. Evie glared at the animal. ‘You’ve switched your loyalty already, have you? Traitor.’ Then she shook her head and sighed. ‘You’re right, James. It is odd to be married. I always thought I would remain a spinster.’

His expression grew sombre. ‘This marriage wasn’t really a choice for either of us, was it?’

Evangeline remained silent for a time, and he wondered if he shouldn’t have spoken. But it seemed better to have honesty between them. ‘Two years ago, it was all I ever wanted. I thought I was in love with you.’

He met her gaze openly. ‘You didn’t deserve what I did to you.’

At that, she ventured a tired smile. ‘I threw myself at you. I should have known better.’

‘And I should have sent you away.’ He paused a moment and then lifted his foot to the opposite seat again. ‘But your kiss changed everything.’

Her smile faded away. ‘Don’t patronise me, Penford. I didn’t know anything about kissing a man. I was desperate to change your mind about leaving for India.’

‘My father asked me to go. He told me he wanted to give me the gift of travelling, and he told me to make investments on our behalf.’ He paused a moment. ‘I didn’t know how sick he was.’ There was a heaviness in his voice, of a man who wanted to grieve his father’s death but continued to hold back the pain. ‘I blame myself for what happened to my family. I wasn’t supposed to be gone so long.’

She sobered at his words. ‘I suppose we both made mistakes. I thought you would offer for me after…that night. It was humiliating when you left.’

‘What I did was wrong, and I have no excuse for it. I never meant to hurt you.’

She leaned back and rested her feet on the opposite side, next to his hips, her skirts filling up the space between them. ‘But you did. And you probably will again.’

He frowned at that. ‘I don’t want to, Evangeline. Tell me what we can do to avoid it.’

She paused a moment and said, ‘You told me you don’t want children. But you never said why. Help me understand your reasons.’

‘That’s a conversation for a night when I am beyond drunk,’ he admitted. ‘Not one for our wedding day.’

‘Is it that bad?’

He could only nod. He didn’t want to admit to her—or anyone really—the horrors that he and Matthew had faced. Even now, the memory evoked fear he didn’t want to remember.

‘Then we’ll save that conversation for another time.’ She rubbed Annabelle’s ears. ‘I assume we will have separate bedrooms?’

‘We will,’ he agreed. ‘And we won’t have a wedding night.’ More than anything, he needed to initiate boundaries between them. Not only was it the right thing to do, but it was a necessity, for he could hardly keep Evie at arm’s-length. She had found a way to get under his skin, tempting him into making bad decisions. Even now, he was entirely distracted by her legs, so close to his.

‘I assumed that. Though my mother and aunts gave me a trousseau of undergarments that are…not anything I can imagine wearing.’

His mouth went dry at the thought. ‘What were they?’

‘Some were red silk, others black. One was actually a lovely emerald green, but none of them are worth wearing. They don’t cover anything at all.’

‘Lace?’ he ventured.

She nodded, her cheeks flushed. ‘But I’ve no use for such things. They’re terribly impractical.’

He could think of many uses, and he couldn’t stop himself from imagining Evie with her dark hair falling around her shoulders, her body revealed in alluring red silk and lace. James shifted in his seat at the image.

He swallowed hard and continued. ‘During Christmas, we will have our own bedrooms with a connecting door so the staff won’t get the wrong idea. To the rest of the world, we will be husband and wife—at least until we decide who will live where. But I won’t bother you, you needn’t worry.’

She let out another breath that sounded suspiciously like a sigh.

‘Is something wrong?’

‘No, of course not.’ She straightened her skirts and glanced out at the snow. ‘Will we be able to travel in this weather?’

‘We’ll get as far as we can,’ he answered. ‘Penford is a few days’ journey north. We’ll stop along the way to spend the night.’

‘I haven’t visited Penford in years,’ she admitted. ‘What should I know before we arrive?’

‘It hasn’t changed very much since my childhood. My mother…well, you know she hasn’t been well. Her memory is failing, and we thought it best if she stayed there instead of London.’

‘Is there a land steward or a caretaker for the estate?’

He gave a nod. ‘There is. And I’ve asked the housekeeper, Mrs Marlock, to give my mother small tasks so she feels useful again. She misses my father and sometimes imagines he’s still alive.’

‘I suppose that dream is better than the reality of losing him.’ Evangeline’s voice turned soft. ‘We will look after her.’

‘So, we will. But if she falls into one of her spells, just let her be. There’s nothing we can do to bring her back.’

She relaxed against the coach, and the silence fell between them once more. Evie waited a few minutes and then said, ‘I suppose I’m lucky that Lord Dunwood didn’t bring any charges against me.’

‘Oh, he did,’ James answered. ‘They were planning to arrest you yesterday.’

She paled and sat up. ‘Why didn’t you or my father say anything? Are we—are we running from the police?’

He reached out to take her hands. They were freezing, and he detected the faint tremor of fear. ‘No. Your father’s solicitor and mine are handling the matter.’

‘But how? I shot Dunwood.’

‘You did,’ he agreed, ‘and Dunwood wants only one thing—money. We’ve agreed to pay a fine and settle the matter outside of court.’

‘But what about the arrest warrant?’

He squeezed her hands. ‘Evie, your uncle is a duke. And your father has enough money to buy three kingdoms. It wasn’t difficult to convince Dunwood to withdraw the charges and accept our payment in return.’

Her expression turned to dismayed fury. ‘Why should we have to pay anything at all? He is the one who attacked me. Why does he get a reward for doing so?’

‘Because life isn’t always fair,’ he answered. ‘And now, he can no longer touch you. We will be hundreds of miles away, and you can remain at Penford for a time until the gossip dies down.’

Her cheeks reddened and she leaned her head against the coach window. ‘I rather wish I had shot him in the heart.’

James regarded her and answered, ‘If he tries to harm you in any way again, rest assured, I will end his miserable life. I promise you that.’

* * *

That night, as promised, they stopped at an inn. Though it was late by the time they arrived, Evangeline was grateful that the snow had slowed down. It was freezing outside, and even with her fur-lined cape and muff, she felt the bite of the wind. James rested his hand against her lower back, escorting her inside.

Several of their household servants had travelled in another coach, and they took over the care of the animals while she and James retreated to their private room. Inside, a warm fire burned on the hearth, and she stood beside it while James went to get supper for them.

She eyed the bed, wondering if they would share it. Though she guessed he would offer to sleep on the floor, her mind was spinning with what her mother had told her. Margaret had promised that she could get the sort of marriage she wanted—that is, if she were brave enough to attempt seduction.

Evie didn’t know. She was rather afraid James would turn her away. He’d already told her that he didn’t want children, so it was unlikely he would change his mind.

Unless she simply tried to tempt him instead of asking.

She wondered what her husband might look like naked, his limbs sprawled upon the bed. Although it had been months, his skin still held the warmth of the Indian summer sun. What would it be like to touch him. Would he allow it?

His mouth had been wicked upon her bare skin that night, his tongue swirling over her nipple. A sudden ache caught between her legs at the memory of his caress. He’d awakened a hunger within her, and now, she questioned whether it would ever be satisfied.

Beneath her gown, she had chosen a corset of white, but it was made of the finest silk and lace. Ribbons adorned the base of her stays, and she couldn’t deny that her undergarments were meant to draw attention to her curves. Though it had embarrassed her at first, she was now starting to wonder if there was a good reason to reveal them to her husband—if it meant he might change his mind.

James entered their room, followed by the innkeeper, who carried a large tray of food and wine. ‘Put it on the table,’ he instructed, and the innkeeper obeyed, accepting a silver coin in return.

Penford poured a cup of mulled wine for her and brought it over. The heat of the mug made her smile. ‘Oh, that’s wonderful. Thank you.’ She tasted the sweetened wine and detected cinnamon and other spices.

James stood across from her at the fire and drank his own wine, but he seemed distracted. Good. She wanted him to reconsider his promise to leave her untouched, though she certainly didn’t truly know anything about seduction.

‘Are you hungry?’ he asked. He moved away from the fire before she could answer and uncovered several plates that contained roasted chicken and potatoes, while another had fresh bread.

She was more nervous than hungry, but she lied, ‘Oh, yes.’

He pulled out a chair for her and offered her portions of the food before serving himself. Once again, his mood seemed to shift, and he stopped talking.

Why had it suddenly become awkward between them? Was it because he was questioning the wisdom of sharing a room tonight?

Evie picked at her food, sipping the hot wine entirely too fast. Her husband ate in silence, and while she tried to decide what to do, a lock of her hair fell free of its pin. She decided to remove the flowers and pins from her hair, and as she did, James turned to watch her.

Though he said nothing, she felt the heat of his gaze. And it made her crave his attention.

Slowly, she continued pulling out the pins until her hair fell in a dark wave down to her waist. James was watching her the entire time, but she pretended as if she didn’t notice. Instead, she drew her fingers through her hair and went to stand by the fireplace.

‘You didn’t eat very much,’ he remarked. ‘Was something wrong?’

Evie glanced at the hearth, staring at the flames licking at the wood. ‘No.’ Then she amended her words and said, ‘Yes. I suppose so.’ She turned to look at him and added, ‘Why did it suddenly get so uncomfortable between us? Nothing’s changed.’

Which was an utter lie. Everything had changed. But she suspected that if she pretended all was well, he might come to believe it.

He pushed his plate aside and went to join her by the hearth. ‘You’re right. This shouldn’t be difficult at all. We both know nothing is going to happen tonight.’

There will, if I can manage it , she thought to herself.

But instead, she nodded and told him, ‘You’ll stay on your side of the bed, and I’ll stay on mine.’

At that, he cast her a wary look. ‘We’re not sharing a bed, Evangeline.’

Aren’t we?

She feigned mock innocence as she met his gaze with a smile. ‘It’s not as if you have to worry about anything, Penford. I promise I won’t ravish you and steal your virtue.’

Instead, I’ll tempt you to steal mine.

A slight grin tipped his mouth at her teasing. ‘I don’t know, Evie. I am a virgin, after all.’

His words shocked her, and she held back her own reaction. She’d always expected that he’d received his own education like the other London rakes. But instead, she felt a slight thrill at the idea that they would be each other’s first lover. ‘Are you really?’

He leaned against the fireplace mantel. ‘I am. So, you needn’t worry that I’ll attempt to ravish you, either.’

She didn’t know what to think of his confession, for it was the last thing she’d expected. And now that she knew it, she wasn’t certain whether her plan of seduction would work. But all she could do was try.

‘I would like to change into my nightgown,’ she said. ‘Could you help me with my buttons?’

‘I’ll send for your maid.’

‘No, don’t.’ She turned her back to him. ‘We’re keeping up pretences, remember? And since you’ve promised not to ravish me, surely you can manage to unbutton my gown and loosen my stays. I can do the rest.’

But she rather hoped he would succumb to his instincts and surrender to his own desires. She’d made up her mind that she would do what she could to tempt him, and if it didn’t work, then she would know that it was a useless effort.

James reached out to her gown and flicked open the top button. ‘How many buttons are there?’

‘I’ve no idea. A lot. Which is why I need your help.’ She kept her back to him, but as his hands moved over each button, it was an effort not to imagine other places his hands could go. She remembered the way his clever fingers had found secret places, tempting her into sin.

And God help her, she wanted that again.

Evie was conscious of his body so close to hers, and memories flooded through her of the way he’d made her feel. She savoured his touch, wishing he would forget his promise to live a separate life apart from her.

He finally reached her waist, and the gown slipped down, revealing her shift and corset.

Turn around , she commanded herself.

This was the moment she ought to seize. Her heart was pounding rapidly, and before he could untie her stays, she faced him.

‘Wait a moment,’ she said, pretending she needed to remove the rest of her gown. He started to turn away, but not before he caught a glimpse of her undergarments. His green eyes flared with undisguised interest.

‘I’m beginning to see how you made a fortune out of selling ladies’ unmentionables,’ he remarked.

She couldn’t bring herself to speak, but she lifted her wedding gown away and let it fall to the floor. ‘Will you help me with my stays now?’

He turned back, and she saw the flare of interest before he shielded it. Gently, he guided her to turn around as he touched her waist. The heat of his hands made her wonder if he was remembering their stolen moment two years ago. Did he desire her in the same way she’d wanted him?

Gently, he untied the stays, loosening them. ‘There. That should be enough.’

Not nearly.

Her hands had turned cold, and she didn’t know if she had the courage to try to tempt him further.

But before she could turn around again, he walked to the far side of the room. ‘I’ll let you get into your nightgown while I change.’

He kept his back to her while he removed his jacket and began untying his cravat. Evie lifted her corset away and stepped free of her petticoats, all the while watching him. He stripped away his shirt, and she caught a glimpse of that warm male skin that drew her gaze down to his trousers.

It was an effort to put her nightgown on while she openly ogled her husband. He removed his boots and trousers but kept his drawers on.

With disappointment, she turned back to the fire, pretending as if she hadn’t been watching. Her linen nightgown was soft and plain, not nearly as seductive as her corset and shift.

But then, he’d already made it clear that he intended to keep his boundaries tonight.

She heard the rustle of the bedcovers and asked, ‘May I turn around?’

‘Yes.’

When she saw the bed, he had flipped back the coverlet for her. He was naked from the waist up, and her cheeks flushed at the sight of his muscular chest. She imagined kissing the curve of his pectoral muscles, taking a path lower to his ridged abdomen.

‘Goodnight, Evie,’ he said, rolling over.

‘Goodnight.’ She climbed into the bed and shivered at the cool sheets. The room was still rather chilly, in spite of the fire.

More than anything, she wanted a wedding night. Her nerves were raw, her body uncertain about what would happen next. She was so afraid to reach out to him, wishing she could talk him into a very different sort of marriage.

James left you once before , her brain reminded her. If he wants you, all he has to do is turn over.

She stared at his muscular back, hoping against hope that he would change his mind. But instead, he continued to face the opposite wall, making it clear that he had no intention of touching her in any way.

And deep inside, it hurt to know it.

* * *

The darkness was all he had known for days. His mouth was dry, and James could still feel the heaviness of chains. The earthy scent of the prison surrounded him on all sides. The ache of hunger had dulled, and he suspected that he would die soon.

He struggled to free himself, but the flare of a torch caught his attention. The woman smiled softly at him. Some would call her beautiful from her dark hair and striking eyes. But he knew Nisha for what she was—a viper who delighted in torturing men.

‘Tell me what I want to know,’ she began. ‘Where are the English soldiers?’

‘We’re not soldiers,’ he tried to say, but one of the men struck him across the face with his fist. James tasted blood, and the woman smiled at the sight.

‘You lie. Our people are dying in battle, and your men are to blame.’

He tried to deny it again, but another blow caught him across the jaw. ‘We only came as travellers.’

‘I don’t believe you.’ Her smile was slow and menacing. ‘But you will pay the price for my family’s suffering.’

* * *

‘James!’

He jolted awake and realised he’d pressed Evangeline against the mattress, his forearm across her shoulders.

‘I’m so sorry.’ He released her immediately and sat up, lowering his head. His heartbeat was racing, and sweat coated his skin. He never should have shared the bed with her. The nightmares were still too frequent.

Evie brought him a cup of water, and he drained it. She refilled it, and this time, he drank more slowly.

‘I should have slept on the floor. I never meant to hurt you.’

‘You didn’t,’ she insisted. But after a slight pause, she asked, ‘How often do you have these nightmares?’

He didn’t truly want to answer, but did it matter? They were never going to share a room. ‘Often enough.’

She took the cup back and sat beside him. ‘Will you tell me what you dreamed of?’

‘I’d rather not.’ It was better to lock the memories away and pretend they didn’t exist. He took a breath and pushed back the coverlet. It bothered him to realise that he’d confused past and present and had nearly hurt her. ‘I’ll sleep on the floor.’ He took a pillow with him and stretched out before the hearth.

James tried to close his eyes, but sleep wouldn’t come. A moment later, he heard the rustling of a blanket, and Evangeline came to sit beside him on the floor.

‘What are you doing?’ he asked wearily. It was the middle of the night, and he didn’t want her to worry about him.

Evie had a blanket wrapped around her, and she faced him. ‘You should come back to bed. If you attempt to sleep on the floor, then I’ll sleep there, too.’

He blinked at her words. ‘Leave me, Evangeline, and go back to sleep.’

‘I will not. Do you honestly think I’m so selfish that, after my husband has such a horrible nightmare, I’d abandon him to sleep on the floor? What sort of person do you think I am?’

Honestly, he hadn’t thought about it at all, except he didn’t want to intrude on her sleep any more than he already had. ‘It’s late, and I don’t want to argue.’

‘Then don’t argue. Come back to bed, and stop being an obstinate donkey.’ She reached out her hand to him. ‘There’s no sense in behaving like a martyr when we both know you have no desire whatsoever for me. You might as well be sleeping with the dog.’

Is that what she believed? He frowned and rose from the floor, ignoring her hand. ‘What do you mean, I have no desire for you?’

‘You made that clear enough,’ she said. ‘There will be no wedding night, and we will not share a room when we arrive at Penford.’

He drew his hand to her waist, wondering if she truly believed he didn’t want her. Ever since she’d first undressed in front of him, he’d barely been able to keep his hands off her. The white corset had moulded to her skin, revealing beautiful breasts that he hadn’t touched or kissed in two years. Her body was lush and tempting, and he drew a thumb down her jawline.

‘You’re making it very difficult for me to be a gentleman.’

‘Then don’t be a gentleman,’ she whispered. ‘Be a wicked rake instead.’ She took his hand and brought it to the curve of her breast. Beneath the soft cotton of her chemise, he felt the erect tip of her nipple, and he couldn’t stop himself from caressing it.

‘You’re a fool if you think I don’t want you with every breath in my body,’ he murmured. ‘Do you think I forgot the way you kissed me? Or the way I pleasured you that night in the garden?’

Her eyes were luminous in the firelight, and he saw the stricken expression on her face. Without warning, she wrapped her arms around his waist and drew her body against his. He couldn’t hide the ridge of his erection, and she inhaled as he drew his hands to her backside and pulled her close.

He could feel the tremble of her body and the shock of her fear. Slowly, he led her back to the bed and drew her back beneath the covers.

Then he leaned down and kissed her forehead. ‘Goodnight, Evangeline.’

Before he could lose his last thread of honour, he got dressed and went downstairs. He needed to leave before he changed his mind and fully ravished his wife.