The Electrifying Exploits of the English Three by Elysabeth Williams

Author:Elysabeth Williams
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Published: 2011-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 16

Once they reached Devin’s home, he escorted her in and led her straight to a bath, per her request. Still mostly silent, Jillian remained confused by his reaction toward her father–and confused by herself. He had left her alone so she could bathe, and it was just one more thing to confuse her. Did she sicken him? Did he think her a common whore? Had he just paid for her services?

With too many “what ifs” in her mind, she broke into tears as she sat in the claw foot tub and let the water run over her sore body. She would have to confront her father at some point. Jillian was certain she’d been recognized. He’d had too much of a knowing look to not realize it was his daughter. There was no escaping it now.

Unfortunately she didn’t know how she’d explain Devin Dashing to him–or why she had no plans to marry him. The thought of spending an extended amount of time with Mr. Dashing was very comforting–if only she knew exactly how he felt, and if she could believe him. Without knowing his heart and mind after tonight’s events, she wasn’t certain she would ever be able to have comfort or safety in a relationship. Given what she’d seen and heard just tonight, there was no reason to believe in decency among men.

She sank down into the hot water, letting out a deep breath. Jillian was exhausted. She let her mind wander and let herself imagine a place and time where she allowed herself to love and trust Devin Dashing freely. It was a beautiful place where her heart was full and calm. She saw them living together in a large country home away from the bustle and allure of the city. They were happy. She felt at ease and loved. Completed. When she opened her eyes, her heart ached. There must be something better than this, she thought. She just had to figure out what that “something” was.

After her well-deserved break from reality, she steadied her nerves and stepped from the tub. She dried, dressed and exited the bathroom with a more detached view of her situation. Regardless of her feelings, she still needed to talk to Devin about Colonel Cuthbert’s plan. She had to cast away her fear and paranoia to conduct business. She figured she could trust him only so far–or try to force herself to, anyway. Taking a deep breath, she made her way to join Devin.

He met her at the base of the stairs, holding a cup of tea.

“Join me?” Devin asked, offering his hand. Jillian took it and they walked to his parlor, which was dimly lit by candles.

“Rather dark in here, isn’t it?” Jillian asked, unsure of what else to say. She sat alone on the settee, while he sat in a high-backed chair on the other side of the room.

“I thought I might recreate the light in the back hallway. If it bothers you, I can light the others,” he offered.

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