Total pages in book: 89
Estimated words: 82982 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 415(@200wpm)___ 332(@250wpm)___ 277(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82982 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 415(@200wpm)___ 332(@250wpm)___ 277(@300wpm)
I could only hope and pray that the outcome of his house party proved a boon for us all.
CHAPTER 4
ALEXANDER
Barnett eyed the pile of markers on the table, his greed evident. Only the two of us were left, the stakes high now. Our third had just lost his winnings and chosen to sit, sipping his brandy and watching. The money he had lost meant nothing to him, but he was eagerly waiting to see the outcome of the last hand. If I actually lost, the money would dent but not break my accounts. If I won, the money meant nothing. It was the land I wanted. Why the old fool wouldn’t simply sell it to me, I had no idea.
Edward had joined us for the evening’s play, and I was grateful for his presence now as I laid the final trap for Barnett.
“I raise,” I said, knowing this was the moment, as I added my markers. I knew he didn’t have any of the funds laid on the table and was playing his role well. I had purposely complained about the cards feeling off, and he had generously opened a new deck. He had no idea it was not the one he thought it to be. It was time to end this charade.
He narrowed his eyes, and I knew he was looking at the marks on my cards, thinking I was bluffing. Thanks to the special cards and the sleight of hand that Edward had taught me, I was ready for him.
“You were interested in the land I hold beside yours at one time,” he said slowly.
It took everything in me not to react. I lifted one shoulder as if bored. “It was a boy’s idea, which has passed. Now, the state it is in, it has become no longer useful to me.”
“Your farmers could change that.”
“Is that your offering?” I asked, making my voice sound disinterested. “It hardly has much value.”
He nodded, instructing a servant to bring him the deed. When he set it down, I sighed, making it seem as if I was unsure.
“I will add one more thing,” he said abruptly.
I frowned at the unexpected offer.
“Which is?”
“A servant for you.” Something in his voice set my teeth on edge. He looked delighted, as if he had suddenly thought of a plan.
“I have no need of any servants.”
He waved his hand. “This one is special. Been in my house her whole life.” He paused. “Untouched. She will be yours to do with what you wish. In fact, I hope you use her then cast her aside when done.”
I was shocked at his callous tone. Horrified at his suggestion. I met the eyes of Edward, who also looked dismayed.
“I beg your pardon,” I snapped.
He held up his hand. “I mean no disrespect. I know you are a man who prefers experience. Consider this a gift. Whether you win or not.”
I realized he fully expected to win. That, in his twisted mind, I would accept a servant in lieu of funds, never suspecting his fraud.
“Bring her in,” he ordered his butler.
Once again, I met Edward’s gaze, a silent conversation flowing between us. Whoever this servant was, it was obvious Barnett despised her. Wanted her gone and wished for her to suffer.
Nothing prepared me for the young woman who was dragged into the room and pushed in front of me. I automatically rose to my feet as any gentleman would do when a lady entered. I had to grab the edge of the table to remain standing. It was the chit I had seen scurrying away—the one who had captured my interest for some reason. Seeing her fully was a shock.
Draped in a gown that was threadbare and far too large on her small frame, she shrank into herself, as if used to hiding. Her head was bowed, her shaking arms wrapped around her torso. Small feet covered in torn boots peeked out from under the useless garment. It did nothing to hide her form or protect her.
I wondered what the greatest motivation behind her trembling was.
Cold or fear?
I noticed how tiny her hands were that clutched her gown. Surprisingly long fingers gripped the material—digits so slender they were noticeable even through the gloves she wore. That oddity caught me off guard, making me wonder why she would have such heavy gloves on at this time of night. Her arms were rail-thin—in fact, her entire body seemed more childlike than that of a maiden.
Unbound wild, dark hair hid her face. I crossed my arms, feigning disinterest.
“I have no need of a child,” I growled, furious.
Lord Barnett leaned forward, his voice dripping in anger.
“Show yourself, girl. Push that horrid mane behind you and look up. Or bear the taste of my displeasure.” When she didn’t move, he stood. “Your father is speaking!” he roared.