The Duke and the Lady in Red Read Online Free PDF

Sharpe. You can’t possibly think I’m going to let you walk away without doing my damnedest to convince you to stay.”
    Another kiss would probably do the trick, damn him. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been with a man. I’m not ready for what you’re proposing.” Reaching up, she combed her fingers through his hair, straightening the strands she had mussed. “Please let me go.”
    Slowly, agonizingly slowly, he released his hold. “At least allow me the honor of escorting you home.”
    â€œWe both know that would be most dangerous. Alone, in a small space, in the dark. I do not believe I would arrive home unscathed. Besides, I have a carriage. So again, good night.”
    â€œI won’t give up.”
    She’d barely turned when his words froze her on the spot.
    â€œI will have you,” he said, his voice a whispered promise that caused a shiver of foreboding, a quiver of pleasure to ripple through her. “Because you want it as much as I do.”
    She nearly denied the words, but she feared if she delayed, she’d find herself back in his arms, this time without the wherewithal to deny him, to deny them both what she thought might be a glorious night. She wanted to flee, to run, but she kept her pace slow and measured as she left the balcony, surprised her trembling legs managed to carry her down the stairs. Twisting the knob, she opened the door and strode into the main salon. She had planned to continue with the rounds, to be seen, perhaps to make a few other acquaintances, but he had unsettled her. She was not accustomed to being unsettled.
    As calmly as possible, she walked to the entrance, acutely aware of his gaze following her the entire way. She’d made a mistake tonight, misjudged. She would have to be more careful in the future. The Duke of Avendale had the power to destroy her.

 
    Chapter 2
    B y the time Rose strode in through the front door of her residence, she was back in control, her heart no longer pounding ferociously and threatening to crack a rib. A part of her was grateful she’d managed to escape. Another part, one she seldom allowed to come to the fore, wished she were still in the shadows of the balcony captivated by a kiss.
    Merrick shuffled out of the parlor, his brow deeply furrowed. “Wasn’t expecting you home so soon.”
    Removing her wrap, she handed it down to him. “See what you can uncover regarding the Duke of Avendale.” She’d given the man too much power. To avoid that happening again, she needed to learn everything she could about him.
    â€œDuke? That’s a bit bold, even for you. He could be influential enough to see you hanged once he realizes what you’re about.”
    â€œThe trick there, then, is to ensure he doesn’t realize what I’m about. Any problems this evening?”
    â€œNo.” Merrick scrunched a face weathered by a harsh life. “He seems happy enough here. He’s sleeping now. Maybe we could stay this time.”
    â€œYou know that’s not possible.” She headed for the stairs, aware that Merrick traipsed along behind her.
    â€œMaybe we could find another way.”
    She spun around. She’d misjudged his nearness and he rammed into her. Grabbing his shoulders, she prevented him from tumbling over. When he was once again steady, he peered up at her and repeated, “Maybe we could.”
    â€œWhat would you suggest? What could I possibly do that would provide us with the means to live in the luxury that we do?”
    â€œMayhap we don’t need as much luxury.”
    â€œBut Harry should have it. I owe him that.”
    â€œAin’t your fault the way your father treated him.”
    Merrick had not witnessed all that she had. He could not possibly fathom all the ramifications of her father’s cruel actions. “Remember, Merrick, you are here by my good graces, not to question me. Now, let Sally