Zach grinned as he stared after her. He couldn’t help himself where she was concerned. He wanted her. Far more than he ever should, considering she’d married his lecherous old uncle for his title and funds. He supposed he should take care of himself and ensure he was prepared for battle. Wilhelmina was not going to make it easy for him, and the twins would be even more mulish. Zach sighed and went to his bedchamber.

  It didn’t take him long to finish bathing and dressing in dry clothing. His anger had dissipated before he had even reached his room. The discussion with Wilhelmina had helped that. He’d been angry, so irate, that he couldn’t see straight because of it. Now that he was calm, he realized what had set him off. He’d been afraid. If one of those girls had been hurt, or God forbid, died… It would have broken Wilhelmina’s heart, and that he couldn’t bear. She’d taken care of him when he was sick. He’d realized through it all that she wasn’t as heartless as he’d taken her to be initially. He’d judged her as he did most ladies of her age. Most of them wanted the title and station it brought them in society. Wilhelmina appeared to care more for her siblings than herself. As an only child, Zach didn’t understand that devotion. His family hadn’t been warm or inviting.

  He took a deep breath and went to the door to depart his chambers. When he stepped out, he almost ran directly into Fox. “Bloody hell,” the marquess muttered. “Don’t tell me you wish to maim me too.”

  “Don’t be ridiculous,” Zach drawled. “If I were to cause you any sort of harm, it would be far more destructive.”

  Fox whipped a furious glance in his direction. “Pardon me,” he said in a scathing tone. “Did I hear you correctly?”

  “Do you wish me to repeat myself?” Zach raised a mocking brow. “I’m certain you are not going deaf in your old age.”

  Fox’s glare might well have caused Zach to drop dead if he were a lesser man. He had to hold back a chuckle so his friend didn’t give in the urge to stab him. The marquess stood straight and used his hands to smooth out imaginary wrinkles in his waistcoat. “If I’m reaching such a significant age you must not be far from the grave considering I’m several months younger than you.”

  “Glad to see some of that anger has decided to find a better place to reside,” Zach replied easily. “It wasn’t as bad as you’re making it into.”

  “You were irate as well if I recall,” Fox said.

  “True,” Zach agreed. “But I think your anger was…worse somehow. I don’t exactly understand why.”

  “Did you not hear what that hellion said to me?” Fox’s eyes darkened as he spoke. “If I were not a gentleman, I’d have strangled her.”

  “I didn’t and I’m sure if it is as bad as you’re making it out to be it shouldn’t be repeated either.” Zach tilted his head to the side and studied his friend. What was it about Miss Christiana Neverhartt that set the Marquess of Foxworth on edge? He would have to pay more attention to them when they were around each other. It would be the only way to discern the issue. Fox certainly wouldn’t tell him anything of note. “I’m glad you refrained. The magistrate would have made our lived miserable, and her family much, much worse.”

  “You’re welcome,” Fox said. “Don’t say I never did anything for you.”

  “Thanks, I think.” Zach chuckled. “Now, if you’ll pardon me, I have to meet with the heathens in my study.”

  “Make sure they’re punished properly. They need to understand that they can’t go acting so…wantonly. Young ladies do not swim in their shifts.”

  “Then what do they swim in?” Christiana asked as she strolled up behind Fox, with her twin, Carolina by her side. “Should we have gone in without a stitch on instead?

  Fox clenched his hands into fists at his side. He closed his eyes for a brief second and opened them. He met Zach’s gaze and said, “I believe I’ll be helping myself to your brandy.”

  As he was strolling away Christiana called after him, “Go ahead and run away, my lord. It’s all right to be afraid of a mere girl.”

  The marquess stopped and started to turn, but Zach reached out and held him in place. “Now is not the time.”

  “It’ll never be the time,” Fox grumbled. “That one needs a good paddling.”

  “And who, pray tell, is going to give me one?” Cristiana taunted him. “Certainly not you.”

  Zach met her gaze and ordered, “Go to my study now. That is enough out of you.” Lady Christiana needed to learn when to keep her thoughts to herself. She had no idea she was baiting a wolf, and that her comments could be interpreted as sexual.

  She opened her mouth, but he didn’t give her a chance to speak. “Now. I’ve had enough of your prattle for a lifetime. It’s best you go before you say more you will come to regret.”

  Christiana pursed her lips in displeasure, but she stomped past both him and Fox, with Carolina following behind her in silence.

  “Good luck,” Fox said dully. “You’re going to need it with those two.” With that ominous statement, he strolled back to his room. He probably felt safer there after the exchange with Christiana. Zach sighed. Fox was right about the twins. Their scheduled meeting would be anything but enjoyable.

  Chapter 10

  The twins were already in Zach’s study when Billie entered the room. Neither one appeared contrite. What was she going to do with them? They were too strong willed and apparently determined to drive her insane. She strolled over to them and stood at the side of Zach’s large mahogany desk. Each of the twins occupied the leather chairs that were located near it. She glanced at them and frowned. “Do either of you have anything to say for yourself?”

  Chris shrugged. “I’m not going to apologize.”

  She blew out a frustrated breath. “Do you not care what your actions might have done to this family?”

  Luckily there were no gossipmongers nearby that could spread tales of their escapades. Billie didn’t believe the duke’s friend would say anything. Especially since he could very well be one of the unfortunate victims of the twin’s misdeeds. They may only be ten and six, but that didn’t mean they couldn’t be forced into an unwanted wedding. Thankfully, that was one thing neither had to concern themselves with.

  “I think you’re making this a much bigger issue than it really is,” Chris said defiantly.

  Billie glanced at Carly. “You’re being awfully quiet,” she told her. “Do you have nothing to say for yourself?”

  Carly shrugged. “Chris is saying plenty for the both of us.”

  “Is that so?” Zach said as he strolled into the room.

  “Yes,” Carly squeaked out the word.

  Well, that was interesting. At least one of the twins feared what Zach might do or say to them. Billie hated that they were making everything difficult when it didn’t need to be.

  Zach sat behind his desk and leaned into his chair. “I’ll be frank. I really do not care what you have to say to defend yourselves. It doesn’t really matter, because, in truth, neither one of you truly feel as if you did anything wrong. You’re careless with yourselves, and your family’s reputation. You don’t seem to grasp the gravity of your actions. Nothing I, or your sister, says to you will penetrate your stubborn brains.” He brought his hands together and steepled his fingers. “So, for expediency’s sake, I will dispense with any formalities. You will go to finishing school. Today. I’ve ordered your trunks packed and the carriages brought around. You will leave in an hour. I’ve sent a messenger ahead already so they know to expect you early.”

  “You can’t do that,” Chris exclaimed.

  “It’s already done.” His tone gave no room for them to argue. “Now, I suggest you go prepare yourselves for your journey and say your goodbyes.”

  Chris glared at him but stood up and stomped out of the room like the petulant child she’d been acting like. Carly was more serene and morose as she followed her sister out.

  “Was that necessary?” Billie asked once the twins were gone. Zach stood and walked over to the door, and shut it, then clicked the lock. Billie stared at him baffled by his actions. “What are you doing?”

  “Ensuring we’re not interrupted,” he replied smoothly. “There are a few things we need to discuss, or did you wish to go with the twins?” Zach lifted a brow. “You said you wanted to converse with me once they were gone earlier.”

  She had, and she did. “I’m sure that it doesn’t merit locking the door.”

  “I disagree,” he told her and came to stand next to her. “Your siblings are a pack of menaces. I’d like at least a few moments where they don’t have a chance to drive me insane.”

  “You’re being a little ridiculous. They’re not that bad.” He was right, at least a little bit, but only where the twins were concerned. They’d been allowed to do as they pleased for far too long.

  He lifted a brow. “I think you are underestimating their abilities.” He narrowed his gaze. “Or are you hoping to help them? Do you believe, if I’m locked in Bedlam, you’ll be given free reign of my estate?”

  “You really think so little of me?” She sighed. Billie hated to admit that his opinion of her mattered. She didn’t want it to, but there it was. A little niggling hope he really saw her and accepted her. “What can I do or say to make you understand I have no designs on your person or your fortune.” She hated he believed she would desire a title and fortune above all else.

  “Nothing,” he said simply. She didn’t believe that for one second. “Because you don’t owe me any explanations. I’d like to know one thing.”

  “Oh?” she said. “What?” She wasn’t certain she’d answer his question, but she was curious.

  “Are you carrying my uncle’s child?” His tone was clipped as he spoke.

  That… He’d need to know if she was enceinte. Billie placed her hand on her stomach. She wouldn’t mind a child, but she wasn’t having one anytime soon. She had to tell him the truth. “No,” she said simply. She’d known that answer when he had first broached the topic. It was wrong of her not to tell him the truth sooner.

  “Good.” He met her gaze. “I’d hate it if you were.”

  “You wish to be a duke that much?” Her voice was barely above a whisper. She hadn’t realized it meant so much to him.

  “No,” he said softly. “I hate the idea of his child growing inside of you. I hate him. I hate the idea of him touching you or having a claim on you in any way.”

  Her heart skipped a beat. She didn’t want to hope… She lifted her gaze to meet his. Billie’s breath caught in her throat and she lifted her hand to her chest trying to still the anxiety rushing through her. What was he trying to tell her? “I don’t understand.”

  “Perhaps this might help.” He moved closer to her and leaned forward. His lips brushed her in a gentle kiss. Her heart fluttered inside her chest. She wanted his kiss, wanted it very much, and was glad he’d gone against her wishes when she’d said never to kiss her again.

  Zach wanted her. He wanted her so damn much, and he was done fighting it. He had to taste her again. One kiss hadn’t been enough. He had to stop though. She’d asked him never to kiss her again. He should have honored her wishes. He pulled back and closed his eyes praying for strength he didn’t have. “My apologies,” he said huskily. “That won’t happen again.”

  “It won’t?” Her words came out breathy.

  He opened his eyes and met her gaze. His heart pounded inside his chest as he stared into their blue depths. Desire reflected back or at least he hoped that’s what he saw. “I promised you I wouldn’t…”

  “Some promises are meant to be broken,” she replied. “At least when you’re given permission to do so.”

  Zach sucked in a deep breath and then leaned forward again. He pressed his lips to hers hesitantly. He didn’t quite believe she’d given him consent to kiss her. Her breath hitched and her lips parted, giving him the opportunity to deepen the kiss. When he touched her tongue with his…his mind went blank with pleasure. He reached down and placed his hand at her waist, then pulled her flush against him. Her breasts felt incredible against his chest. Zack wanted to push her bodice down and worship them…worship her.

  He had to stop before it went too far. Somehow, he managed to pull away from her. Zach stared down at her flushed face and puffy lips and groaned. “You make me burn.”

  “Is that bad?”

  “No,” he shook his head. “No. I want to burn with you until there’s nothing left but the remnants of our passion. But I shouldn’t…we shouldn’t. It’s…”

  “It’s what?” she asked. Her tone held a hint of curiosity that might very well lead them someplace she didn’t want to go.

  “You don’t deserve to be used. I won’t sully you with my desire. My uncle already did that, and I refuse to be anything like him.” Zach hated his uncle so damn much. It irked him how much he desired his widow. That bastard hadn’t deserved her. He cupped her cheek in his palm. “You should have love Wilhelmina.”

  “Billie,” she said. “Please call me Billie. My friends and family do.”

  “Billie,” he tested out her name on his tongue. He brushed his hand over her silken hair. “You’re so lovely.”

  “Will you kiss me again,” she asked.

  “I’m afraid if I do, I won’t stop.” He’d like nothing more than to kiss her over and over again. “We shouldn’t stay in here much longer anyway. The twins will be leaving soon, and you’ll want to say your goodbyes to them.”

  “I don’t agree with how you spoke to them,” she said. “But I do believe they’ll benefit from finishing school.” She nibbled on her bottom lip, and it tempted him. He forced himself to glance away. He was becoming obsessed with her delectable mouth. His gaze returned to her mouth again. He wanted to nibble on it, lick it, and taste her sweet lips. His need to plunge his tongue inside her delightful mouth was driving him to the brink of insanity. He had to find something else to focus his attention on. Anything but her luscious lips and enticing figure.

  “They need someone who’ll be stern with them. That isn’t you.” He forced himself to look at her again. “Your parents are gone, correct?”

  She nodded. “They died a couple months ago.”

  He frowned. “And you married the duke so soon? Shouldn’t you have been in mourning?”

  She nodded again. “We…I…was desperate. My father left us in a dire situation. We sold everything we could, but the estate’s bankrupt. Before my mother died, she told me the duke would aid us. I hadn’t anticipated the cost of that help, but…” She swallowed hard.

  “You don’t need to say anything else. I understand.” And he did. He’d suspected as much when she’d become concerned about where they would live and what would happen to her siblings. That had been her main focus. The marriage had been about survival not status. He also was starting to suspect that the marriage hadn’t been consummated. She hadn’t said yet and he hoped the old man had died first. That might be crude and even ugly to think about, but it was how he felt.

  It sickened him that she had to essentially sell herself to his uncle to protect her family. If he hadn’t been blind with his own prejudices he’d have realized that something wasn’t right. All her siblings shouldn’t have all been living in the duke’s residence. He’d been an arse. Zach should’ve considered the situation instead of making assumptions. “The point I was trying to make was that it’s clear they didn’t have any discipline. I know you’ve tried, but you’re their sister. They’re not going to listen to you. They’ll do as I tell them. Neither one will like it, but they’ll do it. I’m all right with the role. They can hate me all they like, and you can remain being only their sister.”

  “I suppose I can live with that.” She stepped back. “It would be nice not to have to argue with them so much.”

  “Do you honestly think that you won’t again?” He lifted a brow. “Have you met your sisters?”

  She chuckled. “You have gotten to know them well in such a short time. You’re correct. I doubt we’ll only know peace from this moment on. Chris wouldn’t allow it. She’s too stubborn. I’m afraid you do not fully understand this role you’ve agreed to take, but still, I thank you for it.”

  “You’re welcome.” He wanted to protect her, and he didn’t quite understand why. There was something about her that spoke to his soul. Even when he had wanted to hate her, he couldn’t. “I think it’s time to unlock the door.”

  “I suppose you’re right about that too.” She met his gaze and there seemed to be sadness there. “I’ll go make sure they’re ready to depart.”

  She walked to the door and clicked the lock, then exited the room. Zach forced himself to stay rooted to the spot until she was gone. He wanted to call her back. He wanted to kiss her again, but he wouldn’t do either. Billie deserved far better than him.

  Chapter 11

  Zach stared at his empty glass. He’d had imbibed at least half the decanter of brandy. He was considering more. How much would it take to forget the feel of Billie in his arms?

  “Feeling a bit sorry for yourself, are you?” Fox drawled as he leaned against the door frame. “You should. This is a miserable lot you’ve taken on.” He sounded irritated again. That seemed to be Fox’s attitude lately. Anything else would almost be outside the norm as long as one particular lady was nearby.

  “Are you still angry with Lady Christiana?”

  He shrugged. “All I’ll say is it’s a good thing you decided to send her away today. It saved her from an untimely death, and me from an unfortunate spell in a dirty jail cell or worse. I suppose they could have had me hanged or sent to Australia for my crimes. Either way…I’m relieved that I don’t have to deal with that situation of the hellion in question.” He strolled over to Zach’s side. “Are you going to share that brandy, or be stingy and keep it all to yourself?”

 

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