“No,” Charlotte said. “But Gabby was destroyed in our town. No decent man would look at her. He still lives there. I hear he’s unhappily married though. Of course, all the men wanted to lie with her after, thinking she would spread her thighs for them, which she refused I might add. She moved to London after her father died and I lost touch with her until today. It’s strange how the world works, isn’t it?”
“You will pick her up tonight of course,” Essex said with a grin. “I’m sure it won’t be hard to find out where she lives.”
“Of course,” McIntyre replied. “How can I resist a woman who runs around St. James Park with a fake baby?”
* * *
Gabby worked to fasten the buttons on her red dress. It was her best dress, with only one mended hole at the bottom of the skirt. Some days she wished she was a society lady who had a maid to help her reach her buttons. And who had a bevy of dresses from which to choose.
She managed to fasten two more buttons, leaving six to be done. She shook out her aching fingers and thought about her afternoon.
Phillips had not fired her, thank the stars, but he had insisted that she stay in the office from now on. Her only work would be transcribing notes for reporters and correspondence with readers and other business people associated with the paper. The smug look on McNutt’s face had driven Gabby crazy and she’d wanted to slap it off. But she knew that if she did Phillips would have surely given her the sack.
And what of meeting Charlotte and her noble husband? And Lord McIntyre. Gabby felt herself quake at the memory. After her dressing down from Phillips all she could think of was the handsome lord, and what it would feel like to be wrapped in his arms. She’d only been wrapped in the arms of one man and that had turned out disastrous. But Gabby was sure this time would be different.
Would he kiss her until she couldn’t catch her breath? Would he caress her breasts gently? Would he touch her between her legs and make her moan? Oh yes, he would do all that and more.
She took a few deep breaths and reached around to do another button. Stop it Gabby. A man like him would never allow himself to dally with a soiled woman like you. Except as a convenient tryst. But would that be so bad? It had been so long since she’d felt a man’s touch and she did so enjoy it. Let others think she was a slut. She didn’t care. She was older now and more experienced. And she had a job and was making her own money. She may not live in a palace but the boarding house was respectable.
She gave up after another button and decided to go across the hall and see if Margaret was there and could help her with the task.
She pulled open the door at the same time McIntyre’s hand went up to knock. His hand met with thin air and landed on Gabby’s shoulder. Caught off guard he lost his balance and fell into Gabby, who grabbed him, stumbled on her skirt and then fell to the floor. He landed right on top of her, his hands on her shoulders and his lips inches away from hers.
When she recovered her breath enough she gasped.
“Lord McIntyre! Whatever are you doing here?”
“Knocking on your door I believe,” Fergus said with a laugh. “Although I didn’t expect it to have the effect that it had. Forgive me, Gabby. I didn’t mean to bowl you over.”
Gabby felt herself blush deeply. She pushed gently on his shoulders but the man stayed right where he was, his eyes boring into hers. His body felt hard and wonderful on top of her.
“Milord, if you please.”
“If I please what, Gabby?”
She turned her head from his before she could ask him to please kiss her. He propped himself up on one elbow to examine her dress.
“I hope it’s not damaged. I’ll replace it of course.” His hands ran the length of the skirt and Gabby cried out when his fingers touched the mended spot.
“No, no, it’s fine. Please get up.”
He stood and helped her to her feet after he closed the door.
“Well, shall we make our way to the Essex house?”
Charlotte shook her head as she patted her hair back into place. “I was just going across the hall, to um, well, have Margaret help me with…”
Her words drifted off and she pointed to her back. Fergus circled around her and left out a soft, “Ah, I see. Allow me.”
His fingers danced across her skin as he began to button the dress and Gabby pulled away from him.
“No, you shouldn’t. I won’t be but a moment.” She started for the door and Fergus laughed.
“A woman who would face criminals with nothing more than a fake baby in a pram is afraid of having her dress buttoned by a man? I find that quite extraordinary.”
“I assure you, Lord McIntyre, that I am afraid of nothing. It’s simply not proper.” There was a large part of her that said she wanted to throw proper into the fire and have his fingers on her buttons again, but undoing them instead of it being the other way around.
Fergus threw back his head and laughed. “Well, my dear, I hate to tell you that I’m not always a proper gentleman. Now come here and turn around or we’ll be later than we already are. Or are you frightened of my touch?”
Gabby glared at him, and the look of triumph in his eyes let her know she was reacting just as he wanted. She turned her back to him, hands on hips as be began to button the ones that were left, and the ones that had come undone when she’d fallen.
“I think one or two are damaged,” he said softly, his voice husky with desire. “I think the dress will definitely have to be replaced.”
Gabby’s own breath came in short, shallow gasps as she felt his fingers brush her skin. She could feel his breath on her neck and she moaned when he reached the top of the dress, then caressed her shoulders.
“Oh,” she whispered softly.
“I agree,” he said, leaning down to nibble on her ear. “Let’s hold that thought until after dinner, shall we?”
He turned her head and leaned in to kiss her, stopping only when Gabby muttered, “No, don’t. I hardly know you, and despite what you’ve probably heard about me being a fallen woman, I don’t allow men to take liberties with me.”
“It’s just a small kiss, a perfect way to become acquainted.” He leaned in again and Gabby pushed her fingers against his chest.
“I have no doubt that you know I’ve had some experience in these matters,” Gabby said, fighting the desire that was building in her stomach. “That doesn’t mean I’m going to jump into your bed, Lord McIntyre, title or no title.”
The sinfully seductive smile he gave her made her knees go weak.
“You can’t blame a man for trying when such a beautiful woman comes to his attention,” he said, putting his hands on either side of her stomach and squeezing gently. “But I’ll respect your wishes. I will try again. And soon, I promise you.”
He leaned in again, his lips inches away from hers when a frantic knocking made them both jump.
Gabby pulled open the door to find her stern landlady with her hands on her ample hips.
“I told you no gentlemen! I run a respectable place.” The wind went out of the woman’s sails somewhat when she noticed that both the occupants of the room were fully dressed.
“Forgive me, sweet lady,” Fergus said. “We were just leaving for dinner.”
Fergus grabbed Gabby’s wrap from where it hung near the door and then propelled her out the door before Gabby could open her mouth to defend herself.
When they were outside in the hallway she made for the stairs, but then turned around and put her hand on his chest.
“How did you know where I live? Did you follow me?” She put her hands on her hips and glared at him. “And here I thought you were a gentleman. But to show up at a woman’s doorstep, unannounced and barge in, well, I never. I want to know how you found me, because I never gave you my address, and I know Charlotte doesn’t have it.”
His chuckle was deep, and Gabby wasn’t sure if she should laugh with him, or push her finger in his face and tell him to be quiet.
“M
cNutt really doesn’t like you,” he said.
“Are you trying to misdirect me?” She took a step backward. “I’ve a good mind to forgo the invitation and go back into my rooms. It’s not as if I don’t know McNutt doesn’t like me. Why are you bringing it up now?”
“How do you think I found your place of residence?”
Gabby stayed at the top of the stairs. She looked behind Fergus to where her landlady stood near the door to Gabby’s apartments. Her face was bright with interest and Gabby didn’t want her learning anything about Gabby’s private life.
“Let’s discuss it on the way to Lady Essex’s house,” she said, her voice rising with each word. Let the old sod chew on the fact that Gabby was having dinner with a lord and lady. She had half a mind to use Fergus’ title, too, but decided she would save it for later.
She turned and started down the stairs. She could hear—no, really feel—Fergus’ presence behind her. If she slowed down even one millisecond, he would run into her with that absolutely gorgeous form of his. She hadn’t felt a man this close to her in years, and her reaction to him frightened her no end.
Nothing good came from being with a man. She’d learned that the hard way, and she’d be damned if she would allow herself to become involved with a man like Fergus McIntyre. He was too sexy by far, and she had the willpower of a snail. The only way she’d stayed away from men after her disastrous first attempt at lovemaking was staying as far away from men as possible.
At the bottom of the stairs she reached for the door handle but Fergus reached around her for the latch and pulled the door open. She went out without acknowledging him. The carriage driver opened the door and helped her inside.
Once Fergus was settled in across from her and the carriage was on its way, Gabby said, “I’m waiting.”
Fergus chuckled before he said, “Finding you was easier than you might think. McNutt told me where to find you. His rather vulgar terms let me know how much he hates you. He said he hoped I was collecting on a debt you couldn’t pay, and that I would take you away, never to return.”
“The twit,” she said. “He blames me for missing the story, but truthfully he just doesn’t notice things around him. He thinks of himself, and only himself.”
“Yes, I could see that,” Fergus said. “If you don’t like the other staff members, why do you stay?”
“I’m sorry, Lord McIntyre, but not all of us have parents funneling money into our pockets.” She looked out the window. “Living in London is expensive, you know, even in that depressing rooming house.” It came out harsh, but at least it would, hopefully, keep him off her.
She waited for him to apologize, to stammer and try to find his footing again. Instead, he cleared his throat and said, “I hope the cook’s making a good pudding. I do adore sweet things after a heavy meal, don’t you?”
Gabby turned her gaze toward him. He smiled at her and she felt as if they’d been sparring, and she’d just lost that round.
She would make sure she didn’t lose another.
Chapter 2
There had been pudding, delicious pudding. The whole meal had been scrumptious, and Gabby felt as if she’d stuffed herself like a Christmas goose. The conversation had been a little stilted at times, as Charlotte talked about this party or that event. Gabby hated to admit she thought about how she could use her friend’s connections to find stories that would further her career.
But her conscience would not allow her to try and worm her way into Charlotte’s social circle, because, truthfully, she had no desire to report on parties. She wanted more important stories.
Now, as they sat in the Essexes’ garden, Gabby wondered how long she would have to stay, and how she would be able to find a way home without being escorted by McIntyre. He was far too dangerous. He’d been very attentive to her, and she could see herself giving over to his charms. That was obvious by the way her nipples tightened when he brushed against her and her quim dampened when he said her name.
He was far, far too dangerous.
“So have you been involved in many exciting stories?” Charlotte grinned and rapidly nodded her head, as if she expected Gabby to tell her she’d discovered a scandal that would rock London.
Gabby knew she had to answer, but Fergus was sitting much too close for Gabby’s comfort. The heat radiating from his body sent tendrils of longing through her body. His presence made it hard for her to concentrate. All she could think about was lying under him, or being on her knees with him behind her.
She cleared her throat and said, “Not really.” She cleared her throat and tried to concentrate on the subject at hand. “I’m just a secretary, really. I look through letters and type notes for the writers, like McNutt. The only reason I was with McNutt was because he needed a woman to make his time in the park look less suspicious.”
“But you get to hear all the good gossip before it goes out. What a coup for you.”
Gabby laughed. “The Sentinel is a very sensational paper, that is true. I tried to get employment at The Times but they wouldn’t have me. They said all their secretarial positions were full. They laughed at me when I said I wanted to be a writer. It is my desire to break open a big story and show them that a woman can be just as good a reporter as a man.”
“Here, here,” Fergus said as he raised his glass. “Let’s think of something scandalous that you can report on.”
“No,” Gabby laughed. “I want something serious. Nothing social or flippant. Something that will make a change in the way things are done, or expose a problem or criminal act. That will show that I know what I’m doing.”
“High aspirations,” Essex said. “How do you plan on finding this story?”
“By careful observation of everything around me,” Gabby said. “Sooner or later something will happen and I’ll be there to report on it. Right now I plan on attending parliament meetings, protests and museum openings. Sooner or later I’ll find something that will make a wonderful story, I’m sure of it.”
Charlotte laughed and leaned into her husband’s chest. He pressed his lips to hers and Gabby looked away. Such displays of affection were damaging her resolve of refusing Lord McIntyre tonight.
“I’m going to throw a party in honor of finding my friend again. How about this weekend? Fergus will escort you,” Charlotte said. She looked at Gabby and smiled.
“I couldn’t possibly,” Gabby said. “I have to work and I have, well, my wardrobe is less than suitable for a party.”
“Nonsense,” Charlotte said. “I have more than enough gowns that can be altered to fit you. And I do so want you to come and take part. I’d forgotten how much fun it is to be around you. You laugh and make me smile. I’m sure everyone would be happy to have you there.”
Gabby glanced at Fergus whose hooded eyes told her exactly why he wanted her at the party. He leaned in and kissed her forehead. She was so shocked that she didn’t move. She just stared at him, and the look of pure lust on his face made her swallow, hard.
Out of the corner of her eye Gabby saw Essex lead his wife quietly from the garden.
Her breath caught in her throat when Fergus’ lips met hers. His fingers gently caressed circles onto her stomach, the feeling tightening her already aching nipples into tight little buds.
“You’re so very beautiful,” he said against her lips. “And so very intelligent. A combination that I admire.”
“As I said earlier, Fergus, I have no intention of inserting myself into your bed tonight.” Gabby couldn’t help but smile. It had been so long, and it felt wonderful to be desired. “I may enjoy your attentions, but I will not go to bed with you.”
“How about tomorrow then? I can take you home just after midnight.”
Gabby laughed right before he kissed her again. This time his tongue danced into her mouth and she moaned against the sweet invasion.
“Lord McIntyre…”
“Fergus.” His lips continued to play against hers.
“Fergus,” Gabby
said softly. “I’ve only had one lover and that was some time ago. I’m not ready to take another so quickly after making his acquaintance.”
“Then I shall have to take the time to seduce you, won’t I?” His lips moved to her neck. Gabby threw her head back to give him better access and he laughed seductively. She might not take him between her thighs, but there was no reason she should not enjoy a little play, was there?
“You little imp. You tell me I can’t have you and then offer me your neck. You’re a bad little girl, Gabby, to tease me such. Be careful I don’t take you over my knee.”
She raised her eyebrows at him challengingly as their eyes locked.
“Do you want to spank me, Fergus? I’ve read about that in some of the erotica that I’ve studied.”
“You’ve read erotica?” Fergus’ voice was soft.
“I have. I’m not one to shy away from such issues. Of course you already know that.” She wasn’t going to play the coy maiden with him. She knew she was playing with fire, but she was rather enjoying herself.
“Tell me about him. About the man who took your maidenhead.”
That shocked her. She hadn’t expected him to ask about something she hated to even think about.
“I don’t believe it’s any of your business,” Gabby said. She looked down at her skirt and then raised her eyes back to his. “Why are you interested?”
“Did you love him?”
Gabby looked out at the garden. She wondered if she should answer him, and if she did, how much she should tell him.
“It was quite the scandal,” she said. “But I ask once again, why are you interested?”
He put his hand on her knee and she pushed it away. She had not expected his presence in her life, and she wasn’t exactly sure how to handle things. They stared at each other for a few long moments and she decided she would take the high road. She would be upfront, so he knew that he would get nowhere with her.
“You didn’t answer my question so I don’t know why I’m answering yours, but the answer is no, I did not love him. But I’ve always been curious by nature and I did think that we would marry. My father taught me marriage was about convenience and connection, not about love. Jarred was sweet before we made love. I had no reason to think he would desert me after that night.”
His Curious Imp: The Rakes of Mayfair Book 4 Page 2
