Page 50 of Dangerous

“It is where I go to practice.”

“Why can’t I go there?”

“It is not done, that is why.” Adam braced himself for an argument but again she surprised him.

“Then spar here,” she said, wisely choosing her battles. Any daughter of the Duke of Carlisle, a man with a punishing code of “what was and what was not done,” had probably learned the futility of argument.

“Why is it so important that you watch me spar?”

“Is that one of your questions, my lord?”

It was Adam’s turn to laugh.

“Never mind, I will answer it for free. Why is it odd that I would wish to watch my husband do something he does well and enjoys?”

Adam’s stomach tightened at the word husband. Why were they wasting precious time with talk? He wanted to throw her back on these bloody cushions, strip that dress from her body, and—

“Well, my lord?” She was regarding him with that knowing look; the one that burnt away his carefully maintained veneer of ennui and detachment.

“What activities do you enjoy?” he finally asked.

“That is one of your questions?”

“Surely you could answer such a simple question for free?”

“Perhaps later.” She crossed her arms. “You have not yet given me an answer.”

“Very well, I will have Beauleaux send someone over and we will give you an exhibition match.”

“When?”

“Would tomorrow be soon enough? Or should I send for him right now?”

“No, tomorrow will suffice.”

Adam relaxed back against the cushion. But his little haggler wasn’t done yet.

“Tell me about your gambling and the many properties you have taken from other men.”

Adam gaped, and then shut his mouth. When was the last time anyone had surprised him so utterly and completely? It wasn’t a sensation he wanted to get accustomed to.

“Bloody hell,” he muttered.

She sat up straighter. “Bloody hell.” She repeated the words, as if trying out the taste and feel of them on her tongue.

“Those words are not for you, my dear.”

“You like to use them, my lord.”

“Yes, well, I’m a man, so I am allowed.” He flashed her a quick, unamused smile.

The look in her eyes was no longer playful.

Ah, the kitten has claws.

“Do your man’s words mean you will not answer my question?”

The temperature in the room had become chilly, in spite of the fire. Adam realized he liked the soft, cuddly kitten far better.