His Courtesan Bride by Michelle McMaster

Author:Michelle McMaster
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: Michelle Killen
Published: 2016-05-19T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter 15

“Most men are stupid and easily led. When dealing with the other type, it is best not to challenge them directly, but to outfox them using subtlety, ingenuity, and lots and lots of sex.”

–from Memoirs of a Courtesan, by Lady Night

“Surely, you are joking,” Serena said in disbelief, placing her coffee cup back in its saucer and regarding the man before her. Darius had dropped by during what had been, up to now, a very enjoyable breakfast.

“I can assure you, I am not.” He folded his massive arms across his chest and stared down at her, his legs braced wide apart, as if he stood on the deck of a warship and was barking orders at the crew.

“You want me to accompany you to your estate in Surrey, now?” she demanded. “But our contract is almost at an end.”

“Almost, yes. But not completely, Serena,” he said. “You are still in my employ for three more weeks. I have business to attend to at Manning Park which cannot wait. And I have checked our contract. It does not stipulate the location in which you are obligated to render your services to me. So you have no legal means of protest. If you refuse to accompany me, I shall deem the contract null and void, and you will be free. But you will also be free of the collection of jewels I have bestowed upon you, as well as this house. Of course, if you feel that strongly about remaining in London….”

Serena struggled to hold her temper in check as she said, “I know exactly why you are doing this, Darius.”

“Oh?” he asked. “Why, pray tell?”

“To keep me away from the duke.”

At the mention of his rival’s name, Darius’ expression grew dark. “Is that so? I didn’t realize you needed ‘keeping away’ from Balfour.”

Serena continued, “You think to influence me in renewing my contract with you. I can assure you that your efforts will be for naught, as I have already made up my mind.”

“As you mentioned before, my dearest, I have rented out your body—not your mind,” Darius replied. “I care not about how you have made it up. But I do care about having access to the services you agreed to provide me in our contract. So you see, you will be accompanying me to Surrey and remaining there until our contract is at an end.”

Serena glowered at him. He had her in an awkward position. He was right, of course, and she hated when he was right. Their contract was very clear about each party’s obligation to the other. So far, Darius had fulfilled his part quite well.

If she reneged on her duties now, she would forfeit this townhouse, as well as her jewels. Aside from the financial advantage it would provide, Serena had grown very fond of this house. She considered it her home now, and she’d be damned if she would give it up so easily.

Let him try to trick her into doing it.

She would accompany Darius to Timbuktu if she had to.

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