“Rafe tugged her closer before she could trip over a gravestone. "Damn it, woman. Devil take your wagon! You fail to grasp the severity of this situation.”

“There is no home without you.”

“I need you more than I need the sunshine.”

“I’m fine. I’m not even all that hungry. I’d much rather explore the book shop.”“Food first, books after,” he said sternly, not liking the dark shadows of fatigue beneath her eyes. Who knew when she’d last slept? “And then we should rest early.”

“Bethany stepped out of the carriage, eyes fixed in rapt wonder at Ellingsworth manor. Gossamer paper lanterns hung from the trees, linking the drive like stars from the heaves. Strains of enchanting music emanated from the house…”

“Bethany Mead cringed against the stone wall of her cell. Greeves was guarding the female ward this night. She hated Greeves…”

“I have always wondered what it is like to be kissed.” She snapped her mouth closed at such an outrageous confession, but it was too late.“And?” he whispered back.She frowned. “And what?”His lips arched in a wicked smile. “How was the experience?”“Incredible,” she couldn’t stop herself from answering. “So much more that what the novels depict.”His grin broadened, tempting beyond reason. “That tempts me to do it again.”

“You should know that Rafael is not the beast he would have you believe he is. He may be harsh, but he is fair. However, I highly recommend that you endeavor to be on his good side." She raised a brow. "Does he have one?”

“It may be small comfort, but I believe Rafe doesn't want to kill you." A light laugh escaped her lips. "Actually, that is a substantial comfort.”

“Rafe tugged her closer before she could trip over a gravestone. "Damn it, woman. Devil take your wagon! You fail to grasp the severity of this situation.”

“Lydia is enduring the same fate, I may remind you." Vincent remarked. "And she is doubtless freezing, being forced to stand there in only her chemise." A rakish smile spread across his features. "Perhaps we could go down and have a peek."Rafe scowled. "I don't want you looking at my woman." Vincent folded his arms and glared. "Well, I don't want you looking at my woman!”