To Dare a Rogue - Lana Williams (novels for beginners TXT) 📗

“Oh?” He frowned as if puzzled by what she could possibly have to say.

The notion irritated her further and bolstered her courage. “Why don't we step outside for a moment?”

His lips tightened, a gesture that reminded her far too much of her father and confirmed she was doing the right thing.

The terrace doors that graced one wall of the ballroom stood open. The area outside was edged with torches and well lit. She could see another couple speaking outside. Surely that made it safe for them to do the same.

She led the way onto the terrace and drew in the cool evening air. The last thing she wanted was to be caught in a compromising situation, so she halted close to the doors where they were visible by those inside and turned to face him.

“I have had considerable time to think, and I have come to the realization that we would not suit. I'm sure you've noticed that we have little in common.” The blunt truth felt as if it were her only option.

Lord Samuelson scowled. “Why do we need anything in common?”

She could only blink at his ridiculous question. “A husband and wife would benefit from having common interests, don't you think?”

“Not necessarily,” he replied with a shake of his head. “It's not as if this is a love match.”

“Obviously. However, I have no interest in a marriage of convenience. I'm not certain what arrangements you and my father have made, but I don’t wish to marry you.” There. She’d said it plainly, and there could be no misunderstanding of her meaning.

“What does Lord Wynn have to say about this?”

Heat stung her cheeks. “I have not yet told him, but I will. First, I wanted to make it clear to you that I am not interested in continuing this courtship.”

He stiffened, much to her surprise. Had she hurt his pride? “Arrangements have already been made. You know not of what you speak.”

“What arrangements would those be?” Why couldn't the man accept what she said and take his leave?

“Obviously, your father hasn't told you the truth. He owes me a rather significant sum. A few hands of cards that did not go his way. I have offered to forgive the debt in exchange for your hand in marriage.”

A forgiven debt? That was all she was worth? Outrage speared through her, along with hurt. Why should she lose a chance for a happy future just because her father lost a game of cards?

“You don't even like me,” she protested, a terrible numbness spreading over her skin. “Why would you suggest such an arrangement?”

He shrugged. “You are not as quiet and biddable as I hoped, but your beauty helps to offset your tendency to speak your mind.”

“I am sorry my father owes you money. However, I will not be traded for a debt.”

The other couple gave them an odd look, making Charlotte realize how loudly she’d spoken.

“This is all very unsettling,” the lord said as he watched the couple move inside. “I will need to speak with your father.”

“As will I.” She could only hope it wouldn’t result in her riding in a coach to Wales.

“You are making a terrible mistake by interfering with our agreement.” Then with a tip of his head, he turned on his heel and stalked inside, cutting his way through the crowd toward the door, drawing attention and stares as he went.

Charlotte pressed a gloved finger to her temple and drew a deep breath. That had gone even worse than she feared. Learning the true reason behind her father's determination to see her married to Lord Samuelson was both a relief and a worry. She now understood it, but how on earth could she solve it?

“Lady Charlotte.”

The slurred sound of her name coming from the deep garden shadows had her spinning to see Lord Palmer staggering toward her. Alarm filled her at the sight of him, especially considering the way he swayed on his feet.

“What are you doing here?” she asked in disbelief.

“I came to speak with you, of course. We were interrupted at the wrong moment last time we were together.”

“You mean when you drugged me?”

“I prefer to think of it as loosening your inhibitions.” He waved a hand in dismissal. “I meant no true harm.”

“How dare you.” Her entire being trembled with anger. “You should leave at once. I have no desire to speak with you now or ever.” She turned to go back inside only to feel his hand on her arm, halting her.

“We are not through yet. You owe me a kiss.”

He jerked her toward him and pressed her against his length, his fingers gripping her painfully.

“No.” She wrenched her arm free and shoved at his chest, but he didn’t budge. “Release me.” She twisted to escape his kiss, bending back as far as possible. Even as she opened her mouth to scream, a familiar voice cut through her panic.

“You bastard.”

Charlotte turned to see James glaring at Palmer, his features tightened with anger.

Chapter Nineteen

Hot fury gripped James as he yanked Palmer’s arm away from Charlotte, freeing her. “Did he hurt you?”

She shook her head, eyes wide, chest heaving, her gaze locked on James.

“Go inside.” He clenched his fist, holding tightly to his self-control. At least until she was gone. Then he was going to beat Palmer to within an inch of his life, and he preferred Charlotte didn’t remain to witness it. Relief filled him as she hurried toward the door with only a glance over her shoulder.

“Redmond, this doesn’t concern—” Palmer began.

James slammed his fist into the man’s jaw, sending him stumbling back. He allowed the barely leashed fury to flood him as he grabbed Palmer’s suit coat to pull him upright and punched him again. And again. Then once more, even though James’ hold on him was the only reason Palmer still stood.

“Enough.” A hand on James’ arm coupled with a commanding voice pierced his furious haze.

He turned to see Hugh Raybourne along with