My Lord Immortality Read Online Free PDF

tempered with a measure of common sense.
    â€œVery well.”
    Relieved that he was not to be forced into a ridiculous argument, Sebastian steered her away from the stables and down the narrow lane. He even managed to pull her close enough to feel her sweet warmth seep into his being.
    For a time they walked in a companionable silence, and then Sebastian glanced down to study the delicate lines of her profile.
    â€œDo you care for your brother on your own?”
    She abruptly lifted her head to meet his searching gaze. “Oh, no. I have Mrs. Benson, my housekeeper. She is very dedicated to William.”
    â€œWhat of your parents?” he demanded, not at all pleased with the thought of this maiden being so heavily burdened at such a young age. It was surely unnatural, even among humans.
    â€œThey . . .” Her gaze dropped abruptly. “They struggle with their sense of regret over William. It has been very difficult for them to accept the fact that he would never be as other young gentlemen.”
    Sebastian held no sympathy for the unknown Hadwells. Vampires respected and admired one another precisely for their differences. It was well known that it was the variety of thoughts and opinions that made for the highest form of society, and that all possessed their share of strengths and weaknesses. All except for the three traitors who had proved unworthy of respect.
    â€œHe seems a loving and gentle soul,” he said.
    She gave a restless lift of one shoulder. “Yes, but there can be no denying that he is slow of wit and incapable of controlling his inheritance.”
    â€œHe would not be the first son who is a disappointment to his parents,” Sebastian pointed out in dry tones. He had been in London long enough to witness the wretched display of debauchery by those who claimed to be of the highest blood. “The gaming hells of London are littered with worthless noblemen squandering their inheritances.”
    A revealing grimace crossed her pale features. “I believe that my father would prefer such a scoundrel. As it is, he feels that William is . . .”
    Her words trailed away and Sebastian instinctively covered the fingers upon his arm with a comforting hand.
    â€œAn embarrassment?”
    â€œYes,” she whispered softly.
    â€œBut not you?”
    Her head rose abruptly, the dark eyes glittering. “Of course not. William may not be like other gentlemen, but that should be rejoiced in, not feared. He does not harm others, nor lie or cheat. And certainly such a sweet man should not be locked away as if he were a dangerous animal.”
    Sebastian narrowed his gaze at her fierce words. He might admire her determined love for her brother, but that did not make him indifferent to the danger that he posed. William was a weakness that Drake would be swift to use to his advantage.
    â€œNo, but neither should he be allowed to lead you into reckless folly. Last night was a near thing, my dear. Too near.”
    He could feel her stiffen at his side. “William does not make a habit of slipping off in the night. Besides which, I have spoken very sharply with him.”
    Sebastian arched a knowing brow. “And you believe that he will heed your warning?”
    Her eyes revealed the truth of her unease. She clearly was no more confident than himself that William would halt his excursions through the dark streets of London.
    â€œIt is all I can do,” she admitted reluctantly. “I will not have him locked in his rooms nor tied to his bed.”
    â€œSo instead you will allow yourself to be put at risk?”
    â€œIf I must.”
    That stubborn expression had returned to her countenance and Sebastian heaved an inward sigh. He was once again in danger of pushing her away.
    â€œThen I hope you will call upon me if you are ever in any need,” he said gently. “I should be happy to lend my assistance.”
    Without warning, she came to a halt and turned to