Who Wants a Brawling Baron: Romancing the Rake by Tammy Andresen

Author:Tammy Andresen [Andresen, Tammy]
Language: eng
Format: epub

Raithe refused to be the first man to speak. He drew in a deep breath as Craven picked up the pace, climbing the hill with amazing speed. As they continued, he wasn’t certain he could talk even if he wanted to. But he’d keep up, even if his lungs burst.

“I’m going to tell you something,” Craven finally said, stopping on a particularly steep section.

Raithe tried to keep his breath even as he answered. “What?”

“I don’t like you,” the other man said, stepping closer. “Never have.”

Raithe realized he was downhill as Craven now stood over him looking rather hostile. “I’m not that fond of you either.”

Craven gave a quick nod. “Glad we got that sorted.” Then his brows dropped even lower.

Raithe was beginning to understand that was a sign the man was going to say or do something aggressive. He moved uphill so that they were flush on the path.

Craven raised a finger. “I am watching you like a hawk.”

“I beg your pardon.”

Craven’s nose was only an inch from his. “I know you met Charlie in the garden.”

Bloody fucking Christ. “It’s not what you—”

“It’s exactly what I think.” He waved his finger. “Rathmore will see the two of you wed before you can blink.”

Raithe let out a small laugh. Just a single bark that held little humor. Not at the threat. Because he’d just realized part of him might be…relieved. It would take the choice out of his hands. He wouldn’t have to choose to break his vow he’d made at Jenni’s death and he’d have Charlie all to himself. “So why not do it then?”

“Because,” Craven harrumphed. “You’re a depraved son of a bitch and I like Charlie. She could have any man she wanted, why tie her to you?”

Why, indeed? “You say the sweetest things,” Balstead fired back, his lip curling over his teeth. “I’d punch most men for uttering such words.”

“Go ahead,” Craven answered, lifting his arms to the side. “I’m game.”

His fingers curled into fists. “I’m bigger than you.”

“I’m quicker,” Craven fired back. “And I’m in better shape. I heard you huffing up that hill.”

Raithe had to confess, most men would crumble under his fists, but not Craven. It would be a fair fight. His fingers itched to hit something and Craven’s face was as good a punching bag as any. Maybe that would help relieve the tension coiled within him. “I’d love to box you. In fact, it’s the best idea I’ve heard in days. But might I suggest we don’t do it on the side of a cliff?”

Craven smiled at that and his arms relaxed. “Not the worst point.”

“And I’d like you to know that my friend, Lady Rainsville, really will be travelling with Charlie this summer. She’s in need of someone well-connected to help her.”

“Why does a married woman need that sort of help?”

“She’s widowed and penniless,” he grimaced. “You know what society would think if I provided for her financially. She needs a new husband.”

“Why not marry her yourself?” Craven asked.

“She’s the closest thing to a sister I have in this world.

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