Wonderland By Night (Heroic Rogues Series)

by Higgins, Marie

  “She told me a little about your family. She also told me that you spend a lot of time on a ship—”

  “Exactly! I spend time on a ship because that’s what I enjoy doing. I love the taste of the salt air on my tongue, and the sea breeze blowing through my hair. I love commanding a crew, as well.”

  “Pardon me?”

  “Oh,” he shouted, flipping his hands in the air. “Let me guess… The high and mighty duke’s daughter doesn’t approve of a ship’s captain? Is that too far beneath you?”

  Fury shot through her eyes and her lips thinned. Before he could say another word, her hand sailed through the air, and her palm met his cheek dead center. The sound of the slap echoed through the room.

  “That was uncalled for,” she snapped.

  He rubbed his stinging cheek, and continued, “Well, if that was uncalled for, I’m sure you will be very happy to hear that I cannot stand people like you. I loathe the people in England. I hate the King and all that he is doing to the American colonies.” He stood straighter and lifted his chin. “And like it or not, I’m a Patriot! Now my dear, Lady Sarah, what do you have to say about that?” He pointed to his other cheek. “This one hasn’t been slapped. Feel free to release your anger on this side as well.”

  She gasped, her hand flying to her throat. Wide, surprised, eyes stared at him for a few awkward minutes as her bosom rose and fell quickly in uneven breaths. He had certainly caught her off guard with that confession. Thank heavens his anger didn’t loosen his lips to tell her that he was also Captain Hawk and part of the group called The Sons of Liberty. That bit of information would have her running back to Boston to tell her father and political uncle.

  Finally, she took a deep breath and released it slowly. Within seconds her expression changed, and anger was nowhere in sight. Instead, she looked almost…pleased.

  “You want to know what I have to say about that?” she inquired sweetly.

  She stepped closer until she was right in front of him. Her gown even brushed against his legs. Now he could see her striking eyes better…and they were definitely not shooting out fireballs from hell this time.

  Emiline toyed with the buttons on his waistcoat while staring up into his eyes. “Are you sure you want to hear my answer?”

  What game was she playing with him now? He wanted to hear her answer…although he still waited for her to deliver another slap on the face—one he definitely deserved this time. “Yes.”

  “I think your confession was the most wonderful thing I have ever heard.” Her gaze dropped to his lips from a brief moment before bouncing up to meet his eyes. “Although I’m from England, I feel the same way you do about our King, and I sympathize with those over here in the colonies. If only there was something I could do to help—”

  Gabe cut her off by grabbing her and pulling her against him as he captured her mouth in a fiery kiss. Never had he expected such a confession from her, and hearing her sweet words melted his heart faster than a roaring fire could.

  She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and hungrily returned his kiss. His heart burst in his chest as love poured out. He rubbed his hands over her back, pulling her closer—so close as if to make her part of him.

  As she caressed his hair and neck, each touch, each stroke let him know what was in her heart—better than any words could at this moment. Then again, he didn’t want to break the kiss to find out. He took pleasure in the way her mouth fit with his as their bodies practically melded together.

  He lifted her and carried her the few steps to his bed, before laying them both on the mattress. She broke the kiss and smiled. He caressed her hair as he stared dreamily into her eyes.

  “Does this mean you have forgiven me for being a donkey’s hind end?” he asked.

  “I don’t know… I’m still considering it.”

  “Will a few more kisses help you make up your mind?”

  Her eyes twinkled. “It certainly could not hurt.”

  He placed his mouth over hers again, but this time kissed her with such gentleness it nearly had him going insane for more. A soft groan escaped her throat as she cuddled closer.

  Inwardly, he cursed. She would definitely be the death of him. But he also knew that if he didn’t stop this insanity soon, he would not be the gentleman he was raised to be. And although he wanted her badly—she needed a normal wedding. Not one forced upon them by an irate father.

  He broke the kiss again and smiled down at her. “How was that?”

  She nodded. “Perfect. I do forgive you now.”

  “What would you say if I told you how much I love you?”

  Her amazing, wondrous eyes swam with tears. “I would tell you I love you right back.”

  “You do?” His heart sang with happiness. “I never thought I would hear that from you, especially after the way I treated you.” He kissed her forehead. “Please forgive me for not trusting you enough to hear you out before misjudging you.”

  “Why didn’t you want to trust me?”

  “Because I’m in hiding.”

  She glanced at his hair. “Is that why you have colored your hair?”

  He hitched a breath as his hand flew to his head. “How do you know it’s colored?”

  “Because a little bit of red is showing.”

  “Then I suppose it’s time to color it again. And yes, that’s why I colored it—because I’m a redheaded Patriot hiding from some very bad naval officers.”

  “A redhead, huh?”

  “A redhead.”

  She smiled. “You know I will not say anything.”

  He caressed her cheek. “I know.”

  “I’m so glad I decided to talk to you. My mother thought I should wait a few days, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep without talking to you.”

  “Your mother knows about us?”

  “She knows I care for you, but she doesn’t know to what extent my feelings run.”

  He chuckled. “I’m so happy you found your mother.”

  “I would not have found her without your help.” She leaned up and kissed him. “I have you to thank for a lot of things.” She wrapped her arms tighter around his neck and scooted closer to him.

  Inwardly, he groaned. This wasn’t good…although it was, he couldn’t let it go too far. “And I have you to thank for loving me. However,” he kissed her on the nose then moved off the bed, pulling her with him. “I think I need to get you back to your bedroom. If your mother—or father—knew you were in here, we would both be in trouble.”

  Giggling, she walked to the door. “Yes, you are correct. Being with you this late at night is definitely wrong—even though it’s enjoyable.”

  “You are incorrigible.” He touched her chin. “And that’s one of the reasons I love you so much.”

  She took hold of his hands. “Be with me tomorrow. Spend the day getting to know my mother and brother.”

  He nodded. “I will, but only for a little while. I have a meeting to attend.”

  She gave him a skeptical look. “Here? In Salem?”

  “Yes. You met Rufus…well, he’s a member of my crew. He and I have a meeting tomorrow.”

  She grinned. “As you wish, just as long as I get to have you for a little while.”

  “My dear, sweet Emmie…you can have me forever if you wish.”

  “I definitely wish that.”

  He kissed her one last time then opened the door to his room. She sashayed out, dreamily gazing at him as she made her way up the hallway to her room and was safe.

  At least for now.

  Chapter Sixteen

  Gabe walked into the inn, bypassing the section leading toward the bedrooms, and entered the dining area. Immediately Rufus raised his hand from the table where he sat to get Gabe’s attention. He nodded and proceeded to his friend’s table.

  “Good evening, Daughtery.”

  “And a pleasant eventide to you.” Rufus motioned to the empty chair. “I have already ordered us the inn’s special for toni
ght—mutton and potatoes—which I’m assuming they will bring shortly.”

  “Splendid.” Gabe patted his belly. “I am famished.”

  Rufus studied Gabe with narrowed eyes for a few silent moments. “There is something different about you tonight.”

  “There is?” Gabe arched a brow. “Pray, tell me what is different.” He glanced down at his shirt and waistcoat. “I’m dressed, so that cannot be what is different.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “Perhaps I need a haircut, or maybe my natural hair color is returning.”

  “Yes, your brown color is fading, but it’s not that.” He tilted his head. “What I see different from yesterday is that you are in much better spirits. No longer does your frown scare small children.”

  Gabe threw his head back and laughed heartily. “You are very observant. Yes, I’m feeling much better today.”

  “Do I dare ask why?”

  “Because I’m in love, that’s why.”

  “Love?” Rufus chuckled. “When only last night your heart was broken by a fair maiden? I don’t think I have seen you move on so quickly, my good man.”

  “No, Rufus, I have not moved on. The woman I’m madly in love with is Emmie. She and I talked last night, and…well…let’s just say we worked out our problems. No longer am I upset with her for hiding her identity from me.”

  “That’s wonderful.” Rufus slapped Gabe on the shoulder. “And I must say, you do look much better when you are in love.”

  The barmaid brought their plates out, and another maid carried the drinks. Gabe thanked them and dove into his mutton. It was hard to believe, but food even tasted better now that he finally admitted he was in love.

  Rufus took a small bite and after a couple of chews, leaned in and whispered, “Commodore Billingsford was spotted in town.”

  Gabe swallowed hard and nearly choked. He stared at his friend from across the table. Gabe’s head was still reeling with Emmie’s confession and the visit he had with her mother and brother earlier today, making it rather difficult to absorb what Rufus had just said. But now he had to clear his head and focus on important matters. This was definitely not something he wanted to hear.

  “Who told you that?” Gabe asked.

  “One of the crew,” Rufus lowered his voice.

  “Were they certain it was him?”

  “Aye.” Rufus lifted his eyebrows. “It’s rather difficult to confuse Billingsford with someone else because of his hair color.”

  “Very true.” Gabe nodded. “But I wonder what he’s doing here.”

  Leaning his elbows on the table, Rufus bent forward. “Do you suppose he’s still looking for Lady Sarah? You had mentioned the other day that you thought he was the one that came looking for her at your uncle’s house.”

  Panic grew in Gabe’s chest. Was his Emmie in danger, especially now that the truth about her identity was out? “I still believe she might indeed, be in danger. I just wish I knew why.” He scratched his neck, feeling like a noose was being pulled tighter around his throat. “First off, if Billingsford is behind all of this, what would be his reasons? He’s working for the King. Lady Sarah’s father is a duke, and her uncle is a political figure in support of the King. So why then, would they want Lady Sarah? I don’t believe her father or uncle sent Billingsford and his men, either.”

  “Hmm…” Rufus tapped his finger on his chin. “I wonder if Billingsford has other ideas in mind.”

  “Like what?”

  “Perhaps he knows about you being related to the Hamptons, and since Lady Sarah is staying with them, maybe he wants to get her away from you for fear she might say something about her uncle that you could use.”

  Gabe shook his head. “That thought had crossed my mind, but if Billingsford really knew I was staying with my uncle, the man would come to get me—not Lady Sarah. Remember, I have been on his most wanted list for a few years.”

  “All of this is so confusing,” Rufus grumbled before taking a bite of his meat.

  “Indeed it is.”

  A burst of laughter broke out in the far corner, making Gabe jump and reach for his pistol. But the boisterous group of men were well into their cups and enjoying themselves too much to be of any bother to Gabe. Slowly, he glanced around the room, suddenly feeling that danger lurked closely. He silently reminded himself nobody could be trusted.

  As Gabe munched on his roll, his mind spun with ideas, none that made sense. He should be used to running from the King’s Navy, but in this case, he was sick of it. Were his good friends with the Sons of Liberty tired of all this turmoil as well? And Marcus Thorne who had been Captain Hawk before handing the responsibilities over to Gabe—had his friend ever felt this frustrated and confused? Both of Gabe’s close friends over the years, William Braxton and Marcus Thorne, had been nearly captured a time or two. Still, those two came out victorious in the cause. Right now, Gabe felt as if he couldn’t fill their shoes, and he didn’t enjoy the uselessness creeping over him.

  “There is only one thing to do,” Gabe said before taking a swallow from his cup of wine.

  “What is that?”

  “Talk to Billingford myself.”

  Rufus choked on his food. “What? Are you insane?”

  “I must be, but how else are we going to know what he’s planning?”

  “Do you really believe he will tell you?”

  Gabe shrugged. “Perhaps he won’t, but Captain Hawk will find a way to loosen the man’s tongue, even if it means torturing him. I’m sick of his games and it’s time Captain Hawk is in charge again.”

  Rufus grinned. “So shall I gather the crew together for a meeting?”

  “Yes. As soon as you can.”

  “I will let you know once I hear from them. There has only been a handful that came after I sent them missives. I suspect more will arrive.”

  “Good.” Gabe lifted his wine cup. “I’m feeling better all ready.”

  “As am I.” Rufus clinked his cup against Gabe’s.

  Unfortunately, Gabe wasn’t feeling half as good as he should, especially when Emiline might still be in danger.

  * * * *

  The next afternoon, Emiline visited with her mother in Mrs. Winterbourne’s flower garden. Emmie and her mother sat at one of the decorative tables sipping tea, enjoying the fresh air. A warm wind blew against her cheek, stirring a lock of hair against her skin. It didn’t bother her. She vowed not to let menial things bother her any longer. Life was too important to waste being upset or sad.

  She glanced across the yard to the road on the other side of the fence. Not many people walked by today, but then she had noticed this part of town wasn’t as busy as the inn where the Hamptons were staying.

  Staying with her mother had been wonderful. Even Anna relished the fact that she was away from the high-and-mighty Miss Hampton. Anna got along splendidly with Mrs. Winterbourne’s servants, as well.

  Looking back at her mother, a similar pair of eyes stared back at Emmie. A small frown tugged on her mother’s mouth as she wore a forlorn expression.

  “Mother? What is wrong?” Emmie reached across the table and touched her mother’s hand before withdrawing.

  “Not to worry, my dear. I’m all right. I have just been thinking about what could have possibly kept us away from each other for fifteen, very long years.”

  “I, too, have thought of that very thing lately.” Emiline lifted the cup to her lips and sipped. “How could both of us have gotten the same kind of message?”

  “Did your message state that the ship had been attacked by the fearsome pirate, Captain Hawk?”

  “Indeed it did, Mother. When Father wanted us to sail here to visit his brother a few months past, I worried that Captain Hawk might still be alive and attacking ships.”

  Daphne nodded. “That would frighten me, as well. Do you know if Captain Hawk is alive?”

  “I could not tell you.” She reached out her hand and grasped her mother’s. “When you received the message about us dying, why
didn’t you come back to England?”

  “Because I was told the bodies were lost in the sea, so there really was no burial service.” She frowned. “Why did you and Forester not come here upon hearing of my demise?”

  “The same reason—that your body was lost at sea.” Emiline shrugged. “Not only that, but Father was quite upset with your family for wanting you to visit. At times I think he blamed them for making you sail across the sea to come see them.”

  Daphne shook her head. “There were times I blamed my family, as well. My mother wanted me to stay there with her after Elias was born, but I could not. A few years after that was when I was introduced to Estelle Winterbourne. She needed a companion, and didn’t mind that I came with a small child. She had grandchildren, but was never able to visit them because they lived in Ireland.”