Carnal Pleasures Read Online Free PDF Page A

businesslike, and began to interrogate him.
    “Since you decided to agree—which was quite wise of you—I learned you were quite destitute when you arrived in London. I also heard there was a scandal of sorts having something to do with your return to civilian life. Do you wish to tell me about it?”
    Griff would tell her only what she needed to know. “I purchased my colors four years ago. The war has gone on too long for my taste. I wanted out and was given the opportunity to do so.”
    “Why are you in London now?”
    “I was contemplating a suitable liaison when you approached me. Is that sufficient information for your interrogation?’
    “Not quite. No.” She stopped, her blue eyes sharper and more piercing than he thought they would be. This was no softhearted woman looking to cuddle a lover. There was a hard edge to her aristocratic demeanor. For some reason, he was uneasy, as if he had inadvertently assigned his manhood into her keeping.
    “Never mind that,” she continued. “I know about your father’s scandal. I … er … read it in the Times . Did you ever find out why he took his own life?”
    “No. I wasn’t in touch with my father during several years while I was in the army. Not until, you see, I read of his demise when I was on the Continent. We were not on speaking terms at the time of his death. That much I can tell you.”
    “Your father dribbled away your inheritance to nothing with his lifestyle, Spencer. Or, shall we say, his many libertine indulgences. It was rumored you were of the same destructive disposition as was your late sire. Is that true?”
    Griff had tried to rescue his father’s plunge into the bottle without success after his mother passed on. Unable to do anything about it, it seemed easier to join him rather undo the wicked reputation his father’s demons had spread about London connecting both son and father.
    “Yes, I expect so. I was as much of a rake and caddish libertine as my father until I joined the army. I hadn’t the guts to do away with myself the way he did, however.” His answer sounded grim. “I was of the opinion Bonaparte would take care of it for me.”
    Griff shrugged noncommittally. “When fighting the French didn’t do the trick, I mustered out.” His brow wrinkled, but he met the countess’s gaze without flinching.
    “Countess Eberley, I agreed to do what you want. What difference does it make if my blackened reputation is known as long as I keep you happy? That’s all you need to know about me.” He wasn’t going to let her badger him for further intimate details.
    She stared back at him after hearing his reply. “Well, then,” she said, pausing. Her rosebud lips again snapped into a tight line. When she finally did crack a smile, she continued. “I expect callers for tea later this afternoon, Spencer. You need make only a brief, initial appearance. Don’t stay too long; don’t say too much. And whatever you do, don’t explain. I’ll introduce you as my long-lost nephew. It may start some tongues wagging, but we will be on the Town this evening, and I will see to it that you are presented to my closest acquaintances. They will spread the word, nothing but only that you are visiting with me.”
    She looked him more closely in his uniform. “I will see to it you have credit to purchase proper attire for the Season’s festivities. Meanwhile, you are to wear your uniform. It will enhance your heroic appeal.”
    “That won’t be difficult since…”
    She interrupted him, pressing an index finger against her lips. “I accepted several invitations for this evening. One is to the Pillington’s rout. You will escort me. Do try to be as convincing as my nephew as possible. I do not out-and-out explain my young cicisbeos. Besides, I have something else in mind for you. Meanwhile, I shall enjoy promenading your gorgeous face and enticing body in front of my jealous friends. We’ll stay for an hour and then go on to the Dilworth’s