Castles

"Do you mean to say the contract could have been issued for the opposite? To pay if the infant lived?"

"Yes, Princess," Dreyson agreed. "Everyone was appalled, of course. The Marquess was in a rage. Speculation grew during the course of the year, for you see, although the buyer of the contract can remain unknown at the time of purchase, his identity will be found out when he collects the sum due him. He must present himself at Morton and Sons and personally sign the voucher. He cannot send a representative."

"So we will know, in one month's time, if General Ivan was behind the purchase," Alesandra said.

Colin shook his head. "It will only pay if you die, remember? And since you're going to stay fit, the general won't have anything to collect. He'll have no reason to come to England."

She nodded. "Yes, of course. Matthew? Did the son live or die?" she asked, her mind still centered on the story about the Marquess of Covingham. "He lived."

"Who took the contract out?"

"To this day no one knows," he answered. "Princess, I'm pleased to see you're taking this news calmly," he added.

Colin almost smiled. Alesandra really was very good at hiding her reactions. He could feel her trembling in his arms, but the expression on her face never faltered. She looked quite serene.

He knew better. "She has no reason to worry," he said. "She knows I'll protect her. Matthew, I want you to continue to try to find out who is behind this," he ordered then. "We can assume it's the general, but I want actual proof."

"Yes, of course. I won't give up."

"I wonder if everyone in London knows about this contract yet," Alesandra said. "If so, someone might have heard of a boast…"

"If a boast's been made, I'll hear about it," Dreyson assured her. "I wouldn't hold out hope that it's getting much notice, however, what with the fresh scandal making the rounds."

"What scandal?" Alesandra asked, her curiosity pricked. "Why the Viscount of Talbolt's trouble, of course. His wife has caused the scandal. She left her husband. Astonishing, isn't it?"

Colin had never heard of anything so preposterous. Husbands and wives stayed together no matter how difficult the marriage became. "There has to be another explanation," he said.

"Do you know the viscount?" Alesandra asked her husband.

"Yes. He went to Oxford with my brother. He's a good man. Lady Roberta probably just went back to their country estate for a few days. The ton is always looking for reasons to gossip." Dreyson nodded his agreement. "I heard the rumor from

Lord Thorton and I'll be the first to admit he's one to gossip. Still, the facts tell. Lady Roberta seems to have vanished into thin air. The viscount is beside himself with worry."

A shiver rushed down Alesandra's arms. "Vanished?" she whispered.

"She'll turn up," Dreyson rushed out as soon as he saw how worried the princess was becoming. "I'll wager they had a little marital spat and she's punishing him. She'll come out of hiding in a day or two."

The broker stood up. Colin walked by his side to the foyer. Alesandra stopped the two of them when she called out, "Matthew, no matter how outrageous the contract, if the sum is high enough Morton and Sons will agree?"

"Yes, Princess."

Alesandra smiled at Colin. "Husband, I would like for you to prove to me you mean to protect me."

His wife dared to keep right on smiling at him after she'd given him that insult. He knew she was up to something but he didn't have the faintest notion what it was.

"What do you have in mind?" he asked.

She walked over to Colin's side. "Take a contract out on me, naming yourself as beneficiary, for the exact sum and the exact time limit"

Colin was already shaking his head before she'd finished her request.

"It's a clever plan," she argued. "Do quit shaking your head at me."

"And will the policy pay if you live or die, Alesandra?"

She gave him a disgruntled look. "If I live, of course."

She turned her attention to Dreyson. "I know you dislike doing business with Morton and Sons, but couldn't you see to this little transaction?"

"I haven't agreed to this-"

"Please, Matthew," she interrupted, ignoring her husband's protest.

"Then you want his name on the voucher for everyone to read?" Dreyson asked.

"Yes, of course," she answered.

"You'll have to pay a high premium, and I'm not at all certain there's an underwriter willing to sign his initials alongside yours," he told Colin.

"You told me once that Lloyd's of London would insure a sinking ship if the price was high enough," Alesandra reminded the broker. "I'm certain Morton and Sons, with its tainted reputation for common wagering, would leap at the chance to make a profit."

"Perhaps… if you were married to anyone but Sir Hallbrook, that would be true. However, your husband's reputation will defeat your plan, Princess. No one's going to wager against him."

"Why is that?" she asked.

Dreyson smiled. "Your husband has become a legend of sorts. He's feared in most circles. His work, you see, for the War Department-"

"That's enough, Dreyson," Colin interrupted. "You're worrying my wife."

The agent immediately apologized. "Do I try to find someone to underwrite the voucher, Sir Hallbrook?"

"Call it what it is," Colin said. "A wager."

"If you have any doubts about your ability to keep me safe, then I would of course understand your reluctance to put your hard-earned money-"

"You know damned good and well I'm going to protect you," he snapped. "Honest to God, Alesandra, most women would be weeping with fear after finding out someone has taken a contract out on them, but you…"

"Yes?"

He shook his head. He finally accepted defeat, though not at all gracefully. "Do it then," he grumbled. "If my wife wants everyone in London to know there are two vouchers in effect, we'll let her have her way."

Alesandra smiled. "Do you know, Colin, you're actually wagering on your own ability. It's quite sporting, really," she added. "And in my opinion, a certain profit for you. You really shouldn't act so surly about this. I have ultimate faith in you. I therefore see no reason to fret."

Alesandra didn't wait to hear what Colin had to say about her opinions. She bid the agent good-bye and then went upstairs.

Flannaghan appeared out of the shadows. He let Dreyson out the front door and then hurried over to his employer. "She isn't at all worried, is she, milord?"

"How much did you overhear?"

"All of it."

Colin shook his head. "Your uncle would be pleased. You're picking up all of his unsavory habits."

"Thank you, milord. Your princess's loyalty must please you."

Colin smiled. He didn't answer his servant but went up the stairs to his study. Flannaghan's words echoed in his mind.

My princess, he thought to himself. Yes, she was his princess now, and, oh, how she pleased him.

Chapter 10

He infuriated her. They had their first argument late that night. Alesandra had already gone to bed, but she couldn't sleep, so she worked on the list of duties she wanted to accomplish the following day. She was in her own bedroom, of course, because that was where Flannaghan had told her Colin wanted her to sleep, and she was desperately trying not to become upset with her husband because he happened to be such an unfeeling clout. He couldn't help the way he was, could he? Their marriage wasn't a love match either, and if Colin wanted to sleep apart from her, she shouldn't take exception. She did, though. She felt vulnerable-frightened, too-and she couldn't understand why she would be plagued by either emotion.

She tried to understand what was happening to her. She decided she was feeling so insecure because Colin had put her in a much weaker bargaining position. Then she shook her head over that fanciful thought. What did she have to bargain? Her husband had rejected everything she had to give.

Heaven help her, she was beginning to feel sorry for herself. Mother Superior, in one of her daily lectures, had told her that men and women often wanted things they could never have. Envy, she explained, soon turned into jealousy, and once the tentacles of that sinful emotion had taken hold, misery soon followed. Jealousy burned, consumed, until there wasn't room for joy or love or happiness of any sort.

"But I'm not jealous," she whispered to herself. She was envious, though, and let out a little worried sigh over that admission. She was already envious of Colin's brother's happy marriage, and, Lord, did that mean she would soon turn into a jealous shrew and be miserable for the rest of her days?

Marriage, she decided, was a complicated business.

Colin didn't have time for it. He had disappeared into his study directly after dinner to work on his accounts. Having a wife wasn't going to change his habits. He was building an empire, and no one, especially an unwanted bride, was going to interfere with his plans. Colin hadn't had to sit her down and explain his views to her. His actions spoke for him.

Alesandra wasn't upset by his attitude. In truth, she approved of his dedication. She didn't have any doubts, either. Colin would achieve any goal he set. He was strong, terribly clever, and wonderfully disciplined.

She didn't have any intention of getting in his way. She wouldn't distract him, either. The last thing Colin needed was a clinging wife. Still… at night, when the work was done, she wished he wanted to be with her then. It would be nice to fall asleep in his arms, to feel him pressed against her during the dark hours of the night. She liked the way he touched her, kissed her…

She let out a groan. She was never going to be able to concentrate on her lists if she didn't quit daydreaming about her husband. She shook herself out of her daze and forced herself back to work.

It was almost midnight when Colin walked into her room through the connecting doorway to his own chamber. He wore only a pair of black pants, but he had those stripped off before he reached the side of the bed.

He was very casual about his nudity. She tried to be casual about it, too. "Have you finished working on your accounts?"

She asked the bed that question. Color flooded her face and her voice sounded as though she were being strangled.

Colin grinned. "Yes," he answered. "I'm completely caught up now."

"Caught up on what?"

He tried not to laugh. "Alesandra, there isn't anything to be embarrassed about."

"I'm not embarrassed."

She was actually able to look directly into his eyes when she told that blatant lie. Colin thought it was an improvement. He pulled the covers back and got into bed. She hurried to move her papers out of his way.

He propped his back against the headboard and let out a loud sigh. He was deliberately giving her time to calm down. If she turned any redder, he thought she might ignite. Her hands shook when she reached for her papers. He didn't understand why she was acting so nervous with him, but he decided he'd have to wait to ask her. Questions now would only make her condition worse.

"Are you cold?"

"No."

"Your hands are shaking."

"Perhaps I am a little cold. My hair was still damp after my bath and I didn't take time to dry it."

He reached over and cupped the back of her neck with his hand. He could feel the tension and began to massage the knots away. She closed her eyes and let out a sigh of pleasure.

"What are you working on?" he asked.

"My list of duties for everyone. I made a list for Flannaghan, another one for Cook, one each for Raymond and Stefan, and several lists for myself. Oh, and the master list, of course. I just finished that one."

She made the mistake of turning to look at him. Her train of thought went flying out the window then. She couldn't even remember if she'd finished her explanation or not.

It was all his doing. If he hadn't had such beautiful eyes, and if he hadn't had such a wonderful smile, and if his teeth hadn't been as white as God's surely were, she wouldn't have taken the time to notice and forget every other thought. Closing her eyes wouldn't help. She would still be able to feel the heat from his body, still inhale his clean male scent, still…

"What is a master list?"

"I beg your pardon?"

He grinned. "A master list," he repeated.

He knew she was rattled. He was enjoying her discomfort, too, if his smile was any indication. That realization helped her regain a little of her composure.

"It's a list of my lists," she explained.

"You made a list of your lists?"

"Yes, of course."

He burst into laughter. The bed shook with the force of his amusement. She took immediate exception to his attitude. "Colin, lists are the keys to true organization."

Her voice reeked with authority. Because she was acting so sincere, he tried to control his laughter. "I see," he drawled out. "And where did you learn this important fact?"

"Mother Superior taught me everything I needed to know about organization."

"Was she as thorough as she was when she explained the intimate…"

She didn't let him finish. "She was much more thorough. It was very difficult for her to talk about… the other. She's a nun, after all, and had taken the vow of chastity years ago. You can understand her reticence, can't you? She didn't have much experience."

"No, I don't imagine she did have much experience," he agreed.

Colin was swallowing up the bed. She kept edging closer to the side to give his legs more room and he kept… expanding until he was comfortable. He stretched and yawned and soon took up all the space.

He took her papers, too. He put them on the table next to his side of the bed, then blew out the two candles and turned back to her.

She folded her hands in her lap and ordered herself to quit being so nervous.

"Without organization we would have anarchy."

It was a stupid thing to say, but she couldn't think of anything better. She was dying to ask him why he was in her bed. Was he going to sleep with her in her chamber every night? No, she thought to herself. That didn't make any sense. His bed was much larger-much more comfortable, too.

Alesandra decided to ease into the topic of their sleeping arrangement. She was calm now, and in total control. He was her husband, after all, and she should be able to ask him any questions, no matter how personal the topic.

A clap of thunder sounded in the distance. She almost fell out of bed. He grabbed her before she went over the side and hauled her up close to him.

"Does thunder make you nervous?"

"No," she answered. "Colin, I was wondering…"

"Take your nightgown off, sweetheart," he ordered at the very same time.

His command gained her full attention. "Why?"

"I want to touch you."

"Oh."

She didn't move. "Alesandra? What's wrong?"

"You confuse me," she whispered. "I thought you did like to… and then when Flannaghan told me to… well, I didn't."

She knew she wasn't making any sense. She quit trying to explain and considered his order instead. She wished he wasn't watching her. She wished it was darker inside the chamber, too. The fire burning in the hearth was still bright enough to cast a golden glow on the bed. She knew she shouldn't be embarrassed. Colin was her husband, and he'd already seen every inch of her body. She hated being shy and wished she could be as uninhibited as he was.

Still, they'd only been married less than two full days. Alesandra decided to tell him how awkward she was feeling and perhaps gain a few pointers on how to get past her shyness.

He turned her attention, then, when he tugged her nightgown up over her hips. She had to force herself not to slap his hands away.

"What are you doing?" She sounded breathless, felt like a complete fool. She knew exactly what he was doing.

"I'm helping you."

"Do you notice how nervous I seem to be tonight?"

"Yes, I noticed," he replied. The laughter was in his voice, but there was heat there, too. The craving to touch her had been plaguing him all day, breaking through his concentration at the oddest moments, and now, finally, he was going to satisfy the intense desire building inside him.

"You're still a little shy with me, aren't you, Alesandra?"

She rolled her eyes heavenward. A little shy? She felt as though she was about to explode with her embarrassment.

Colin pulled the gown up over her head and tossed it over the side of the bed. She immediately tried to cover herself with the blankets. He wouldn't let her shield herself from his gaze, however, and gently tugged the covers down to her waist.

She was perfectly formed. Her breasts were full, lush, beautiful. The pink nipples were already hard, ready, and he arrogantly believed it was his nearness that caused that reaction. He didn't think the goose bumps on her arms were due to the chill in the room, either. Her body was already responding to him, and he hadn't even touched her yet.

He took his time looking at her. She stared at the covers. "I'm not used to sleeping without a gown."

"We aren't going to sleep, sweetheart."

She found her first smile. "I know," she whispered. She decided she had had quite enough of her own awkwardness, and although it took every bit of determination inside her, she turned to him. The look in his eyes-so warm, so caring-made her boldness easier. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed herself against him.

It felt wonderful to hold him so close, so intimately. The hair on his chest tickled her breasts. She let out a little sigh of pleasure and deliberately rubbed against him again. He grunted in reaction. His hands cupped her backside and he pulled her tight against his hard arousal. Her face was tucked under his chin. He nudged her chin up, then lowered his head to hers.

He kissed her forehead first, the bridge of her nose next, and then teased her mouth open by pulling on her lower lip with his teeth. His mouth settled over her parted lips. Her mouth felt so wondrously soft against his own, and the sweet taste of her made him ravenous for more. The slow penetration of his tongue made her shiver. She let out a tiny whimper when he withdrew and then his tongue penetrated deeper inside again. The lazy love play went on and on, for the kiss seemed endless as his mouth slanted over hers again and again. The broken sighs of her pleasure intensified his own. He'd never had a woman respond with such abandon. Her sensuality intoxicated him, and, dear God, he hadn't understood until last night, when he'd first taken her, that such passion was possible between a man and a woman. She held nothing back, and that honest response forced him to let go of his own shields, his own barriers.

He rolled her onto her back, kissed her again, then turned his attention to the side of her neck. His breathing was ragged against her ear. "You make me burn," he whispered, his voice rough with need. "You get so hot so fast it makes me a little crazy."

He sounded almost angry when he told her how she made him feel, but she still took his confession as a compliment. "It's the way you touch me, Colin," she whispered back. "I can't help how I…"

The last of her words ended in a low whimper, for Colin had just taken one straining nipple into his mouth and began to suck it. His hand slid between her thighs and he began to stroke the fire inside her. His fingers slowly penetrated her tight sheath. She cried out, in pain and pleasure, and reached down to take hold of his hand. She wanted to push him away, for she was still terribly tender, but she couldn't seem to make herself do that. She couldn't quit twisting in his arms either. The pad of his thumb made circles around and around the soft curls at the junction of her thighs. He delved deeper and brushed against the hot nub of flesh hidden between the sleek folds of skin. She moaned his name.

"Colin, we shouldn't… I can't… Don't do that," she cried out when his fingers penetrated her again. "It hurts. Oh, God, don't stop."

She clung to her husband while she gave him her contradictory orders. She knew she wasn't making any sense, but she couldn't seem to find the right words to explain how he made her feel. Colin stopped her protest by covering her mouth with his. The kiss was ravenous, unending, consuming. When he next pulled back, she was so overwhelmed by her own desire, she couldn't think about the pain. She could barely think at all.

Colin stared down at the beautiful woman in his arms and was almost undone by the passion in her eyes. Her lips, swollen and rosy from his kisses, beckoned him again. He gave into the need and kissed her once again.

"Do you remember I told you there was more than one way to make love?" he asked her, his voice thick with emotion.

She tried to concentrate on what he was asking her, but it was terribly difficult. Everything about Colin overwhelmed her. His skin was so hot against hers and she moved restlessly against him, trying to get closer and closer. His scent, an erotic mixture of male and sex, aroused her as much as his magical touch. Her toes curled into the hair on his muscular legs and her breasts rubbed against the crisp hair on his chest. Her hands stroked the bulge of muscle along his upper arms. He felt like hot steel and the sheer power she felt beneath her fingertips was an intoxication all its own. He was such a strong man, yet he was being terribly gentle with her.

Colin didn't wait for an answer to his question. The need to know all of her overwhelmed his every other thought. He kissed the flat of her stomach, traced her navel with his wet tongue, and then, before she could understand his intent, he pushed her thighs apart with his hands and moved lower to taste the liquid heat of her.

"No, you mustn't." She whimpered the denial, for what he was doing to her was surely forbidden. It was appalling… and wonderful. Her control slipped further and further away with each erotic stroke of his tongue against the most private part of her. White-hot pleasure spiraled through her. She knew she was going to die from the sweet agony. The intimate sparing of his rough tongue against the sensitive nub of her desire drove her wild. She tried to tell him to stop even as she held him there and arched up against him for more of his erotic touch.

Her response drove him crazy. He wanted to give her fulfillment first, then teach her how to pleasure him, but the uninhibited way she moved beneath him made his own control snap. Her sexy moans made him wild to be inside her. He barely knew what he was doing now. The need overwhelmed him, ruled his every thought. His movements became rough, forceful, as he knelt between her silken thighs, dragged her arms around his neck, and plunged deep inside her. Perspiration beaded his brow, his breathing became choppy, and he clenched his jaw tight against the incredible feeling of her tight sheath squeezing every inch of his arousal. She fit him completely and the wet heat surrounding him made him shudder with raw pleasure. He heard her cry out. He stilled his movements, grimacing over that sweet torture.

"Am I hurting you, baby?"

She couldn't have answered him if she'd wanted to, for his mouth covered hers again, cutting off words and thoughts. The worry in his voice cut through the sensual haze of passion and she wanted to tell him yes, he was hurting her, but it didn't matter. The pleasure he gave her was far more intense-more demanding, too. She throbbed for release now. He wasn't moving quickly enough to suit her. She wrapped her legs around his thighs and arched up against him, telling him without words that she wanted more, and more, and more.

Colin understood. He buried his face in the crook of her neck and began to move within her. His thrusts weren't measured but hard, fast, because it was impossible for him to control anything now. The fire inside her beckoned him, burned him, and he wanted and needed to get closer.

He never wanted the agony and the ecstasy to end. He sank into her again and again. And yet, when he felt her tighten around him even more, heard her cry out his name, and knew then she was finding her own release, he thrust deep one last time and let out a low grunt of acceptance as he poured his seed into her.

He thought he had died. And gone to paradise. He collapsed against her, took a long gulp of air, and groaned again. He was so damned satisfied, he felt like smiling. He couldn't, though. He didn't have the strength.

It took Alesandra long minutes to recover. She felt safe and warm held so tenderly in her husband's arms. The terror she'd felt seconds before subsided with each ragged breath Colin took.

"Damn, you're good," he said and rolled onto his back. The man wasn't much for flowery speech, Alesandra thought with a smile. It didn't matter. She was arrogantly proud of herself because she'd pleased him. Perhaps she should give him a little praise too. She rolled onto her side to face him, put her hand on his chest directly over his pounding heart, and whispered, "You're good, too. 'Tis the truth, you're the best I've ever had."

He opened his eyes to look at her. "I'm the only one you've ever had, remember?" His voice was gruff with affection.

"I remember," she said.

"No other man is ever going to touch you, Alesandra. You're mine."

She wasn't bothered by his possessiveness. In truth, she found comfort in his attitude, for it made her think he must care for her. She belonged to him now, and the thought of doing what she had just done with any other man repelled her. There was only one Colin, and he belonged to her.

She rested the side of her face on his shoulder. "I wouldn't want anyone but you."

He liked hearing her fervent admission and leaned up to kiss the top of her forehead to let her know how pleased he was.

Long minutes passed in silence. Alesandra thought about what had just happened to her and tried to make logical sense out of her behavior. It proved to be an impossible task, however, for her response to her husband was most illogical.

"Colin?"

"Yes?"

"When you touch me, my control seems to vanish. It felt as though my mind had become separated from my body. That doesn't make sense, does it?"

She didn't wait for his answer. "It was frightening-overwhelming, too-but it was also… splendid."

Colin smiled in the darkness. His wife sounded thoroughly confused-worried, too. "It's supposed to feel good, sweetheart," he whispered.

"Mother Superior didn't mention that fact."

"No, I don't imagine she would," he countered.

"I would like to make sense out of this bizarre mating ritual," she announced.

"Why?"

"So that I can understand," she replied. She leaned up to look at him. His eyes were closed and he looked very peaceful. She thought he was about to fall asleep. Alesandra decided to let the matter drop. She cuddled up against her husband and closed her eyes. Her mind wouldn't cooperate, however, and one question after another raced through her thoughts.

"Colin?"

He grunted his reply.

"Have you taken other women to your bed?"

He didn't immediately answer her. She nudged him in his side. He let out a sigh. "Yes."

"Very many?"

He almost shrugged her off his shoulder. "Depends on who's doing the counting."

She disliked that answer intensely. Was it two others, or twenty? The thought of Colin being intimate with even one other woman made her stomach tighten. Her reaction wasn't at all reasonable. His past shouldn't concern her. It did, though. "Was it lust or love that made you want them?"

"Alesandra, why are you asking me all these questions?" He sounded irritated now. Realizing that made her annoyed as well. She was feeling vulnerable, but her insensitive husband was too obtuse to understand.

Her burst of anger vanished almost as soon as it appeared. How could Colin understand when she didn't understand herself? She wasn't being at all fair with him-or logical.

"I was just curious," she whispered. "Did you love any of those women?"

"No."

"Then it was lust?"

He sighed again. "Yes."

"Was it lust with me?"

Or love, she'd wanted to ask. She'd been too afraid to add that word to her question, fearing the answer wouldn't be what she wanted to hear. Oh, God, she wasn't making any sense at all. She knew Colin didn't love her. Why then did she have this consuming need to hear him tell her so? What in heaven's name was the matter with her? Colin wanted to put an end to her inquisition. She was prodding him to answer questions he wasn't ready to think about. Hell, yes, it had been lust when he bedded her, he decided. From the moment he'd first seen her, he'd wanted her in his bed.

Yet putting Alesandra into the same category with the other women he'd bedded seemed an atrocity to him. Making love to her had been completely different, and much, much more fulfilling. No other woman had made him burn the way she did; no other woman had made him lose himself so completely.

There was more than lust involved. Colin admitted that much to himself. He cared about Alesandra. She belonged to him now and it was a natural inclination for a husband to want to protect his wife.

But love? Colin honestly didn't know if he loved her or not. He didn't have enough experience to draw upon to know what the hell love was anyway. His gut reaction to the nagging question was that he wasn't capable of letting himself love anyone with real intensity. He remembered the agony his friend and partner, Nathan, had gone through when he'd fallen in love with his wife. Colin blanched over the mere possibility that he wasn't any stronger emotionally than Nathan was. He hadn't believed it was possible for such a tough-skinned giant to fall so hard. Nathan had, however. He'd become damned vulnerable, too.

Colin forced the dour thoughts aside and reached for his wife. She was trying to scoot over to the far side of the bed, away from him. He wasn't about to let her go. He pulled her into his arms, gently pushed her onto her back, and then covered her from head to toes with his body. He propped his weight with his arms and stared down at her. He frowned with concern when he saw the tears in her eyes. "Did I hurt you again, sweetheart? When I'm inside you I go a little crazy. I…"

His voice was gruff with emotion. She reached up to stroke the side of his face. "I went a little crazy too," she confessed. "You made me forget all about my tenderness."

"Then why are you upset?"

"I'm not. I was just trying to sort things out in my mind."

"Sort out things like love and lust?"

She nodded. He smiled. "Sweetheart, I've lusted after you for a long, long time. And you've lusted after me," he added with a nod.

He thought his admission would please her. She surprised him with a frown. "Lust is a sin," she whispered. "I will admit I found you very attractive, but I certainly didn't want you in my bed."

"And why the hell not?"

She couldn't believe he was getting pricked over her admission. The man's ego was involved, she supposed, and she'd just inadvertently stomped on it.

"Because I didn't know what would happen there. No one told me how wonderful making love would be. Now do you understand?"

He grinned, looked sheepish.

"Do you know, Colin, I've just worked it all out in my mind," she announced. "I couldn't understand why I was feeling vulnerable but now I know the reason and I'm feeling much better."

"Explain it to me," he ordered.

"It's because this intimacy is new to me, of course. I didn't have a clue it would be so magnificent, and I didn't realize I would become so emotionally involved." She paused to smile up at him. "If I'd had your experience, I probably wouldn't have felt vulnerable at all."

"It isn't a sin for a wife to feel vulnerable," he announced. "It doesn't make any sense in your situation, however."

"Why doesn't it make sense?"

"Because you certainly realize I'm going to take care of you and you therefore have no reason to feel vulnerable at all."

"That's an extremely arrogant thing to say, husband."

He shrugged. "I'm an arrogant man."

"Do husbands ever feel vulnerable?"

"No."

"But, Colin, if…"

He didn't let her finish her argument. His mouth covered hers, cutting off all conversation. He thought only to take her mind off the bizarre topic, but she opened her mouth for his tongue and put her arms around his neck and he was suddenly caught up in a burst of passion he didn't feel like squelching.

He made love to her again, tried to be gentle and take it slow and easy, but she waylaid his noble intentions by responding with abandon. Although it didn't seem possible to him, each time was better, even more fulfilling. His own climax almost killed him, and when he felt her tears on his shoulder, he believed he'd really hurt her.

Colin lit the candles and turned back to her. He took her into his arms and soothed her with honeyed words. She promised him he hadn't injured her, but she couldn't explain why she'd started crying.

He didn't prod her into another conversation. Her lusty yawns told him she was exhausted. Odd, but he was wide awake now. The scare that he might have harmed her jarred him and he knew it would take more than just a few minutes to relax again. Her lists drew his attention when he turned to blow out the candles. On the top sheet were two names. Lady Victoria was first, followed by Lady Roberta. Alesandra had placed question marks after each name.

Needless to say, his curiosity was caught. She was just drifting off to sleep when he nudged her.

"What is this all about?"

She didn't open her eyes. Colin read the names to her and asked her to explain.

"Can't we discuss this in the morning?"

He was about to give in to her request when she muttered, "There might be a connection between the two women. Both have disappeared, after all. After I've talked to Lady Roberta's husband, I'll explain everything to you. Good night, Colin."

"You are not going to talk to the viscount."

The tone of his voice cut through her sleepy haze. "I'm not?"

"No, you're not. The man has enough to deal with now. He doesn't need you grilling him with questions."

"Colin, I…"

He didn't let her finish. "I forbid it, Alesandra. Give me your word you won't bother him."

She was astonished by his high-handed attitude-angry, too. She wasn't a child who had to gain her parent's permission to pursue an interest or a worry, and Colin had best understand she had a mind of her own and could use it upon occasion.

"Promise me, Alesandra," he demanded again.

"No."

He couldn't believe what he'd just heard. "No?"

Because her face was still tucked under his chin and he couldn't possibly see her expression, she felt it safe to grimace. Lord, he sounded surly. His arm tightened around her. A good wife probably would try to placate her husband, she supposed.

She guessed she didn't have it in her to be a good wife, however, for no man-not even Colin-was going to direct her actions.

Ask his permission indeed! She pushed herself away from him and sat up. Her hair covered half her face. She brushed it back over her shoulder and matched him glare for glare.

"Marriage is new to you, Colin, and so you will have to take my word when I tell you…"

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but haven't we been married the exact length of time?"

"Yes…"

"Then marriage is just as new to you too, isn't it?"

She nodded.

"New or old, Alesandra, the vows haven't changed. Wives obey their husbands."

"Ours is not a usual marriage," she countered. "You and I settled upon an agreement of sorts before we spoke our vows. You've obviously forgotten and for that reason I will not take exception to your outrageous command. I will remind you, however, that we both agreed not to hover."

"No we didn't."

"It was an unspoken promise we gave to each other. I told you I didn't want a husband who hovered and you admitted you didn't want a wife who hovered, either."

"What the hell does that have to do with…"

"By hover I meant someone who interferes," she told him. "You've made it perfectly clear on several occasions that you don't wish my help or interference in your business affairs and I would now like to take this opportunity to insist you not interfere in my affairs."

She couldn't quite look into his eyes. His incredulous expression made her nervous. She turned her gaze to his chin. "My father would never have forbidden my mother anything. Their marriage was based upon a foundation of mutual trust and respect. In time I hope we can achieve the same kind of arrangement."

"Are you finished?"

She was pleased that he didn't sound angry with her. Colin was going to be reasonable about this after all. He had listened to what she had to say and hadn't allowed his arrogant nature to get in the way.

"Yes, thank you."

"Look at me."

She immediately lifted her gaze to his eyes. He didn't say another word for a long minute. His stare made her worry, though. His expression didn't give her a hint of what he was thinking and his amazing ability to mask his thoughts and his feelings did impress her. She was a little envious, too. She wished she had that much control.

"Did you want to say something to me?" she asked when she couldn't stand the silence a second longer.

He nodded. She smiled.

"You will not talk to the viscount about his wife."

They were right back where they'd started. Colin obviously hadn't heard a word she'd said. She felt like kicking the stubborn man. She didn't, of course, because she was a lady, and her impossible husband was never going to know how furious she was.

God's truth, he could make Mother Superior curse in vexation.

Colin forced himself not to smile. The issue was too important to turn into a laughing matter, but, dear God, her expression was priceless. She looked like she wanted to kill him.

"Give me your promise, wife."

"Oh, all right," she cried out. "You win. I won't bother the viscount."

"This isn't about winning or losing," he countered. "The viscount has enough on his mind. I don't want you adding to his misery."

"You don't trust my judgment at all, do you, Colin?"

"No."

That answer hurt her far more than his high-handed command. She tried to turn away from him, but he reached out and grabbed hold of her chin. "Do you trust my judgment yet?"

He fully expected to hear the same denial. She didn't know him well enough to give him her complete trust. In time, of course, when they had both learned the other's ways, she would begin to give him her trust.

"Yes, of course I trust your judgment."

He couldn't contain his surprise or his pleasure. He grabbed her by the back of her neck, pulled her toward him, and leaned up at the same time to kiss her hard.

"I'm pleased to know you have instinctively put your faith in me already," he told her.

She leaned back and frowned at him. "It wasn't instinctive," she said. "You had already proven to me that you can upon occasion use sound judgment."

"When was that?"

"When you married me. You used sound judgment then. I understand now, of course, that you knew something I didn't."

"And what did I know?"

"That no one else would have you."

She'd deliberately tried to prick his temper with that remark, for she was still irritated with him, but Colin wasn't at all offended. The slap at his arrogance went unnoticed. He either didn't know she'd just insulted him or he didn't care, she decided when he burst into laughter.

"You please me, Alesandra."

"Of course I please you. I just gave in."

She fluffed her pillow, then got back under the covers to rest on her side. "Marriage is more complicated than I anticipated," she whispered. "Will I always have to be the one to concede?"

God, she sounded forlorn. "No, you won't always have to concede."

Her unladylike snort told him she didn't believe him. "Marriage is a give-and-take arrangement," he speculated.

"With the wife doing all the giving and the husband doing all the taking?"

He didn't answer that question. He turned on his side and pulled her up against him. Her shoulders rested against his chest and her bottom was pressed against his groin. The backs of her thighs, so smooth and silky, covered the tops of his thighs, and, God, how he loved the feel of her against him. He draped one arm over her hip, dropped his chin to rest on top of her head, and closed his eyes.

Long minutes passed in silence. He thought Alesandra had already fallen asleep and was just easing away from her when she whispered, "I dislike the word obey, Colin."

"I gathered as much," he told her dryly. "A princess really shouldn't have to obey anyone." It was a paltry argument. "But you're my princess," he reminded her. "And you will therefore do what I think is best. We're both going to have to bow to tradition for a while," he added. "Neither one of us has any experience being married. I'm not an ogre, but the fact is you did promise to obey. I specifically remember hearing your pledge when you were reciting your vows."

"I wish you would be more reasonable."

"I'm always reasonable."

"Colin?"

"Yes?"

"Do go to sleep."

He let her have the last word. He waited a long while until he was certain she had fallen asleep before he left her bed and went back to his own chamber.

She felt him leave. She almost called out to him to ask him why he didn't want to sleep with her the rest of the night, but pride stopped her. Tears filled her eyes and she felt as though she had just been rejected by her husband. Her reaction didn't make much sense, especially after the passionate way he'd made love to her, but she was too tired to sort it all out in her mind.

Alesandra's sleep was fitful. She was awakened just an hour later by a scraping sound coming from Colin's bedroom. She immediately got out of bed to investigate. She didn't have any intention of intruding and therefore didn't bother with her robe or her slippers.

She heard a low expletive just as she pulled the door open and peeked inside. Colin stood in front of the fireplace. He'd dragged the footrest over and, while she watched, he put one foot on the cushion and bent over to massage his injured leg with both hands.

He didn't know she was there, watching him. She was certain of that fact because of his expression. It wasn't guarded now, and though she could only see one side of his face, it was enough for her to know he was in agony.

It took all the strength she had not to rush into his room and offer whatever paltry help she could give. His pride was involved, however, and she knew he would be furious with her if he realized she'd been watching him.

Rubbing the injured muscles wasn't easing the pain. Colin straightened up and began to pace back and forth in front of the hearth. He was trying to work out the knot of twisted muscle in what was left of the calf of his left leg. Forcing his full weight on the injured limb caused a spasm of pain to shoot all the way up to his chest. It felt like lightning had just struck every nerve in his body, and it damn near doubled him over. Colin refused to give in to the torment. He clenched his jaw tight, drew a deep breath, and continued walking. He knew from past experience that eventually he would be able to walk the cramp out. Some nights it only took an hour. Other nights it took much, much longer.

Colin walked over to the connecting door to Alesandra's room. He reached for the doorknob, then stopped. He wanted to look in on her, but he didn't want to wake her up and he knew she was a light sleeper. He'd learned that fact when he'd become ill and she slept with him.

Alesandra needed her rest. He turned around and resumed his pacing. His mind was suddenly filled with fragments of their conversation regarding his order and her compliance. He remembered how she had sounded when she'd told him she disliked the word obey. Hell, he didn't blame her. He thought it was a bit barbaric for a woman to have to promise to obey her husband for the rest of her life. Such radical opinions would land him in Newgate Prison if the conservatives got wind of his subversive thoughts, and Colin was honest enough to admit that there was a part of him-a very small part-that found the idea of a woman obeying his every command appealing. The appeal wouldn't last long, however. There were paid servants to do his bidding. And perhaps there were wives who would be just as accommodating. Alesandra didn't fit into that group. Thank God for that, he decided. She was feisty and opinionated, and he wouldn't have her any other way. She was so damned passionate about everything.

His princess, he decided, was flawed to perfection.

Alesandra hadn't made a sound when she hurried back to her bed and got under the covers. She couldn't get the picture of Colin's anguished expression out of her mind. Her heart ached for her husband. She hadn't realized until tonight how terrible his pain was, but now that she was aware, she vowed to find a way to help him.

She suddenly had a mission. She lit the candles and made a list of what she needed to do. First she would read whatever literature was available. Second on her list was a visit to the physician, Sir Winters. She would ply him with questions and ask him for suggestions. Alesandra couldn't think of anything else to add to her list now, but she was tired, and surely after some much needed sleep, she would think of other plans of action.

She put the list back on the side table and blew out the candles. Her cheeks were wet from her tears. She used the bed cover to wipe them dry, then closed her eyes and tried to go back to sleep.

A sudden realization rushed into her mind just as she was drifting off. Colin didn't want her to sleep in his bed because of his leg. He didn't want her to know about his agony. Yes, that made sense. His pride was the issue, of course, but he was also probably being thoughtful, too. If he needed to walk every night, he would wake her. That made sense, too. Alesandra let out a loud sigh of relief.

Colin hadn't rejected her after all.

Chapter 11

Colin shook Alesandra awake early the next morning. "Sweetheart, open your eyes. I want to talk to you before I leave."

She struggled to sit up. "Where are you going?"

"To work," he answered.

She started to sink back down under the covers. Colin leaned over the side of the bed and grabbed hold of her shoulders. He couldn't tell if her eyes were open or not, for her curly hair hung over her face, blocking his view. He held on to her with one hand and brushed her hair back over her shoulders with his other. He was both exasperated and amused. "Are you awake yet?"

"I believe I am."

"I want you to stay inside until I return home. I've already given Stefan and Raymond their orders."

"Why do I have to stay inside?"

"Have you already forgotten about the policy in effect for thirty days?"

She let out a loud yawn. She guessed she had forgotten. "Do you mean to tell me I have to stay under lock and key for a full month?"

"We'll take it one day at a time, wife."

"Colin, what time is it?"

"A few minutes past dawn.

"Good God."

"Have you heard my instructions?" he demanded.

She didn't answer him. She got out of bed, put her robe on, and walked into his bedroom. Her husband followed her.

"What are you doing?"

"Getting in your bed."

"Why?"

"I belong here."

She buried herself under his covers and was sound asleep a minute later. He pulled the covers back, leaned down, and kissed her brow.

Flannaghan waited in the hall. Colin went over his instructions with the butler. The town house was going to become a fortress for the next thirty days, and no one other than immediate family was going to be allowed entrance.

"Keeping company out will be easy, milord, but keeping your princess inside is going to be most difficult."

Flannaghan's prediction proved accurate. The battle began late that morning. The butler found his new mistress sitting on the floor in Colin's bedroom. She was surrounded by a stack of her husband's shoes. "What are you doing, Princess?"

"Colin needs new boots," she replied. "But he has at least five pairs now he never wears. He's partial to the old Hessians even though the Wellingtons have become more fashionable."

Alesandra was looking at the soles of the boots. "Flannaghan, do you notice the heel on the left boot is barely worn?"

The butler knelt down beside his mistress and looked at the boot she held up for him. "It looks brand-new," he remarked. "But I know he's worn…"

"Yes, he has worn these boots," she interrupted. She held up the right-footed boot. "This one's well worn, isn't it?"

"What do you make of it, Princess?"

"We're speaking in confidence now, Flannaghan. I don't want a word of this discussion to reach Colin. He's sensitive about his leg."

"I won't say a word."

She nodded. "It appears Colin's injured leg is just a bit shorter than the other one. I would like a bootmaker to look at these shoes and make a few adjustments."

"Do you mean to make one heel thicker? Colin will notice, Princess."

She shook her head. "I was thinking along the lines of an insert of some kind-perhaps a soft leather pad running the length. Who makes Colin's boots now?"

"Hoby made that pair," Flannaghan answered. "Every fashionable gentleman gives him his business."

"Then he won't do," she countered. "I don't want anyone to know about this experiment. We must find someone else."

"There's Curtis," Flannaghan remarked after a moment's consideration. "He used to make Colin's father's shoes. The man's retired now, but he lives in London and he might be persuaded to help you."

"I shall go and see him at once. I'll take only one pair of Colin's shoes with me. If luck is on our side, my husband won't even notice they're gone."

Flannaghan was vehemently shaking his head at her. "You cannot leave the town house. I would be happy to go on this errand," he added in a rush when she looked like she was about to argue with him. "If you'll write down what you wish Curtis to do…"

"Yes," she agreed. "I'll make a list of suggestions. What a fine idea. Could you go this afternoon?"

The butler immediately agreed. Alesandra handed him the pair of boots and then stood up. "If this plan works, I'll have Curtis make a pair of half Wellingtons for Colin. Then he'll have a pair to wear under his trousers. Now then, Flannaghan, I have one more request to ask of you."

"Yes, Princess?"

"Would you please take a note to Sir Winters? I would like him to call late this afternoon."

"Yes, of course," the butler agreed. "May I be bold and ask you why you wish to see the physician?"

"I'm going to be ill this afternoon."

Flannaghan did a double take. "You are? How can you know…"

She let out a sigh. "If I give you the full explanation and beg your confidence, you'll have to lie to your employer. We can't have that, now can we?"

"No, of course not."

"So you see, Flannaghan, it's best you not know."

"This has something to do with Colin, doesn't it?"

She smiled. "Perhaps," she replied.

She left Flannaghan to the task of putting the other shoes back in the wardrobe and went back to her room to make her list for the bootmaker. The boots she was sending were made of soft black calfskin and she added in her note the hope that Curtis would be able to stretch the bridge across the top of the boot enough to accommodate the insert she was certain he could make.

Alesandra then sent a note to Sir Winters requesting an audience. She set the time at four o'clock.

The physician was punctual. Stefan escorted him into the salon. He dared to frown at his mistress for insisting he let the man inside. She smiled at the guard.

"Your husband gave us specific orders that no one outside of immediate family be given admittance," he whispered. "Sir Winters is like family," she countered. "And I'm not feeling at all well, Stefan. I have need of his services."

The guard was immediately contrite. Alesandra felt a bit guilty for telling the blatant lie. She got past the feeling quickly, however, when she reminded herself she only had Colin's best interests at heart.

She closed the guard out by pulling the French doors to the salon closed. Sir Winters stood by her side. He held a brown leather bag under one arm. She ushered him over to the settee.

"If you're indisposed, shouldn't you be in bed, Princess?" She smiled at the physician. "I'm not that ill," she announced. "I have a little tickle in my throat. That's all."

"Hot tea is just the ticket, then," Sir Winters returned. "A spot of brandy would also do the trick."

Because the white-haired man was being so sincere and looking so concerned, she couldn't continue with the lie any longer. "I had another purpose for asking you to come here," she admitted. "I would like to talk to you about Colin."

Alesandra sat down in the chair across from the physician and folded her hands in her lap. "I used trickery to get you to come here," she admitted. She acted as though she had just confessed a dark sin. "My throat really isn't paining me. 'Tis the truth, the only time it hurts is when I want to shout at my stubborn husband and I know I can't." Sir Winters smiled. "Colin can be stubborn, can't he?"

"Yes," she whispered.

"He's ill, then?" the physician asked, trying to understand the real motive behind his summons.

She shook her head. "It's his leg," she explained in a whisper. "He won't talk about his injury. He's sensitive about it, you see, but I know he's in terrible pain. I was wondering if something could be done to ease his discomfort."

The physician leaned back against the cushions. The worry on the princess's face told him her concern was genuine. "He hasn't told you how he came by the affliction, has he?"

"No."

"A shark took a bite out of his leg, Princess. I tended him, and there was a time when I considered taking the leg off. Colin's partner, Nathan, wouldn't let me. Your husband, you see, wasn't in any condition to give me his opinion. He blessedly slept through the worst of it."

A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Flannaghan came inside carrying a silver tray. Neither Alesandra nor Sir Winters said another word until the butler had served both of them cups of hot tea and left the salon again.

Sir Winters pushed his bag out of his way and leaned forward to help himself to the assortment of sweet biscuits from the tray. He popped one into his mouth and then took a long swallow of the tea.

"Colin would be extremely upset if he knew we were discussing his condition," she admitted. "And I do feel guilty because I know he'll be displeased with me."

"Nonsense," Sir Winters countered. "You have his best interests at heart. I won't be telling him about our talk. Now, then, as to your question. How do you help him? I would suggest laudanum or brandy when the pain becomes insistent, but I know Colin won't take either."

"Is pride the reason?" she asked, trying to understand.

Winters shook his head. "Dependency," he countered. "Laudanum is addictive, Princess, and some say spirits can be addictive as well. Regardless, Colin won't take the chance."

"I see," she replied when the physician didn't immediately continue.

"I also suggested a brace of steel be made to fit from the knee to the ankle. Your husband was appalled by that suggestion."

"He's a proud man."

Winters nodded. "He's a sight more clever than I am too," he remarked. "I didn't believe he'd ever walk again without assistance. He's proven me wrong. What muscle is left has strengthened enough to support him. He barely limps now."

"At night, when he's weary, then he limps."

"Hot towels should be applied then. It won't make the leg stronger, of course, but it will ease his discomfort. A soothing massage would also help."

She wondered how in heaven's name Colin would ever allow her to follow those suggestions. That was her problem, however, not Sir Winters', and she would worry about it after he'd left.

"Anything else?" she asked.

"He should get off his feet when the pain intensifies," Sir Winters announced. "He shouldn't wait until it's agonizing."

Alesandra nodded agreement. She was thoroughly discouraged, but she kept her expression serene so the physician wouldn't know how disappointed she was feeling. His suggestions were superficial at best.

"You give me recommendations meant to deal with the symptoms, Sir Winters, but I was hoping you might have an idea or two regarding the cause."

"You're hoping for a miracle," Sir Winters replied. "Nothing can be done to make the leg fit again, Princess." His voice was filled with kindness.

"Yes," she whispered. "I was hoping for a miracle, I suppose. Still, your suggestions will prove helpful. If you think of anything more to add, will you pen me a note? I could use all the advice you can give."

Sir Winters took the last biscuit from the tray. His mind was fully occupied with Colin's condition and he didn't realize he'd eaten all of the treats. Alesandra filled his cup with more tea.

"Are all husbands stubborn?" she asked the physician.

Sir Winters smiled. "It seems to be a trait most husbands share."

He told her several amusing stories concerning titled men who refused to acknowledge they were in need of a physician. His favorite was the tale about the Marquess of Ackerman. The gentleman had been involved in a duel. He'd been shot in the shoulder and wouldn't allow anyone to see to the injury. Winters had been called by his brother to tend to the man.

"We found him at White's at one of the gaming tables," he told her. "It took three of his friends to drag him away. When we got his jacket off, why, there was blood everywhere."

"Did the marquess recover?"

Winters nodded. "He was too stubborn to die," he remarked. "Kept referring to the injury as a paltry nick until he passed out. I advised his wife to tie him to the bed until he recovered."

Alesandra smiled over that picture. "Colin's every bit as stubborn," she announced. She let out a sigh. "I would appreciate it if you would keep this conference secret, please. As I said before, Colin is quite sensitive about his leg."

Sir Winters placed his teacup and saucer back on the tray, picked up his satchel, and stood up to take his leave. "You needn't worry, Princess. I won't say a word about this visitation. You'd be surprised if you knew how many wives seek my advice concerning their husbands' welfare."

The door to the salon opened just as the physician was reaching for the handle. Colin moved out of the way to allow Winters room. He gave the physician a quick nod in greeting and turned to his wife. "Flannaghan said you were ill." He didn't give her time to answer but turned to Winters. "What's wrong with her?"

Alesandra didn't want the physician to lie for her. "I had a tickle in my throat, but it's better now. Sir Winters suggested hot tea," she added with a nod. "Yes, I did," Winters agreed.

Something wasn't quite right, but Colin couldn't put his finger on what was wrong. Alesandra couldn't look him in the eye. He knew her well enough to know she wasn't telling him the truth. She didn't look ill. Her cheeks were high with color, indicating she was embarrassed about something. He decided then he would have to wait until they were alone to find out what was really wrong.

Alesandra stood by Colin's side while he visited with the physician. She happened to glance over her shoulder and found Flannaghan standing just a few feet away. The butler was giving her a sympathetic expression.

She already felt guilty because she'd lied to her husband and Flannaghan's expression made her feel worse.

Her motives were pure, she immediately told herself. She let out a little sigh then. She'd used that very excuse when she'd made the second set of books for the mother superior. A sin is still a sin, or so the nun had proclaimed when she'd found out about the little deception. Large or little, it didn't matter. God, the mother superior assured her with great authority in her voice, kept an accurate list of each and every sin committed by every man and woman on this earth. Alesandra's list, the nun speculated, was probably long enough to reach the bottom of the ocean.

Alesandra didn't believe she'd sinned that much or that often. She imagined her list was about the length of her shadow by now. She wondered if her Maker had two columns on his sheet of paper for her-one for small infractions and the other for more substantial offenses.

She was pulled back to the present rather abruptly when Sir Winters said, "I was sorry to hear about the loss of the Diamond, Colin. Bad piece of luck, that."

"You've lost a diamond?" Alesandra asked, trying to understand.

Colin shook his head. "It's a ship, Alesandra. She went down with a full cargo. Winters, how did you hear about it so soon? I only just found out yesterday."

"A friend of mine had some business dealings at Lloyd's today. One of their agents mentioned it. They insured the loss, didn't they?"

"Yes."

"Is it true it was the second vessel this year you and Nathan have lost?"

Colin nodded.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Alesandra asked.

She tried to keep the hurt out of her voice. It was a difficult task.

"I didn't want you to worry," Colin explained.

She didn't believe he'd given her the full reason. Yes, it was probably true that he didn't want to worry her, but more important, he didn't want to share his burdens with her. She tried not to be offended. Colin had kept his own counsel for a long while and it surely wasn't easy for him to take anyone into his confidence, not even his wife.

She was going to have to be patient, she decided. Colin would have to get used to having her around before he felt comfortable enough to confide in her.

Her husband was still talking to the physician when she excused herself and went upstairs. She went to her room and started her list of suggestions Winters had given her to help ease the pain in Colin's leg, but her mind wasn't on the task.

He should have told her about the ship, damn it. If he was worried, she had every right to be worried too. Husbands and wives were supposed to share their problems, weren't they?

Flannaghan came to fetch her for dinner. On the way downstairs, she asked him for another favor.

"Have you heard about the Viscount of Talbolt's troubles?"

"Oh, yes," Flannaghan replied. "Everyone's talking about it. Lady Roberta left her husband."

"Colin has forbidden me to talk to the viscount and I must go along with his wishes. My husband believes I'll upset the man."

"Why do you want to talk to him?"

"I believe there might be a connection between his wife's sudden disappearance and that of my friend, Lady Victoria. She disappeared, too, Flannaghan. I was wondering if you would mind talking to his servants for me. I want to find out if Lady Roberta received any little presents from an unknown admirer, you see."

"What kinds of gifts, Princess?"

She shrugged. "Flowers-perhaps chocolates," she said. "Wouldn't the maids notice such gifts?"

Flannaghan nodded. "Yes, of course they'd notice. They would talk amongst themselves, too. They won't talk to me, though. Now Cook could learn a thing or two when she goes to market tomorrow. Shall I put the request to her?"

"Yes, please," Alesandra replied.

"What are you two whispering about?"

Colin asked that question from the entrance to the dining room. He smiled over the startle he gave his wife. She jumped a good foot. "You seem a bit nervous tonight," he remarked.

She didn't have a quick answer for that remark. She followed Flannaghan into the dining room. Colin held her chair out for her and then took his place at the head of the table, adjacent to her.

"Am I going to have to stay locked inside for a full month?" she asked.

"Yes."

He was occupied sorting through a stack of correspondence and didn't bother to glance her way when he answered her.

The man couldn't even take time away from his work to eat a proper meal. She wondered if he had digestive problems and almost asked him that personal question. She changed her mind and turned the topic to a more pressing matter.

"What about Catherine's first ball? It's only a week away, Colin. I don't want to miss it."

"I'll tell you all about it."

"You'd go without me?"

She sounded wounded. He smiled. "Yes," he answered. "I have to attend," he added. "And you have to be reasonable about this."

The set of his jaw told her he wasn't going to give in. She drummed her fingertips on the tabletop in agitation.

"It's rude to read your correspondence while at the table."

Colin was so occupied reading the letter from his partner, he didn't hear his wife's rebuke. He finished the long missive, then put the papers on the table.

"Nathan's wife has given him a baby girl. They've named her Joanna. The letter's almost three months old and he mentioned that as soon as Sara is feeling well enough, he's going to bring her and the baby back to London for a brief visit. Jimbo will watch the offices while he's gone."

"Who is Jimbo?" Alesandra asked, smiling over the odd name.

"A very good friend," Colin answered. "He's captain of one of our ships, the Emerald, but the vessel is undergoing some much needed repairs so Jimbo has time on his hands."

"This is all good news, Colin," she remarked.

"Yes, of course."

"Then why are you frowning?"

He hadn't realized he was frowning until she asked him why. He leaned back in his chair and gave her his full attention. "Nathan wants to offer ten or twenty shares of stock for sale. I hate the idea and I know that deep down Nathan feels the same way. I understand, however. He has a family now and wants to provide for them. He and Sara have been living in rented rooms, and now that the baby's here he wants more permanent quarters."

"Why are you two so opposed to stockholders?"

"We want to maintain control."

She was exasperated with him. "If only ten or twenty shares are sold, you and Nathan will still be the major stockholders and therefore in complete control."

He didn't seem impressed with her logic, for he continued to frown. She tried another approach. "What if you sold the stock to family members?"

"No."

"Why, in heaven's name, not?"

He let out a sigh. "It would be the same as a loan."

"It would not," she argued. "Caine and your father would make a handsome profit eventually. It would be a sound investment."

"Why did you send for Winters?"

He was deliberately changing the topic on her. She wasn't ready to let him. "Has Nathan given permission for this sale?"

"Yes."

"And when will you decide?"

"I've already decided. I'll have Dreyson handle the transaction. Now, enough about this. Answer my question. Why did you send for Winters?"

"I already explained," she began. "My throat…"

"I know," Colin said. "You had a scratch in your throat."

Alesandra was folding and refolding her napkin. "Actually it was a little tickle."

"Yes," he agreed. "Now I want you to tell me the truth. And look at me while you explain."

She dropped the napkin in her lap and finally looked up at him. "It's rude of you to suggest I would lie."

"Did you?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Because if I told you the truth, you'd become irritated with me."

"You will not lie to me in future, wife. Give me your word."

"You lied to me."

"When?"

"When you told me you didn't work for Sir Richards any longer. I saw the cash entries in the ledgers, Colin, and I heard him talk to you about a new assignment. Yes, you lied to me. If you give me your promise not to lie in future, I'll be happy to give you my word."

"Alesandra, it isn't at all the same."

"No, it isn't."

She was suddenly furious with her husband. She tossed the napkin down on the table just as Flannaghan came through the swinging door with a tray laden with food in his hands. "I don't take risks, Colin. You do. You don't give a twit about me, do you?"

She didn't give him time to answer her question but rushed on. "You've deliberately involved yourself in danger. I would never do such a thing. Now that we are married, I not only think about my well-being, I think about yours. If something happened to you, I would be devastated. Yet if something happened to me, I believe you would only be mildly inconvenienced. My funeral would force you to put your work aside for a few hours. Do excuse me, sir, before I say something more I know I'll regret."

She didn't wait for his permission to leave the table. She ignored his command to sit back down, too, and ran all the way up to her bedroom. She wanted to vent her frustration by slamming the door shut. She didn't give in to that urge, however, for it wouldn't be dignified.

Thankfully, Colin didn't follow her. Alesandra needed to be alone now so she could get a grip on her own rioting emotions. She was a bit stunned she'd become so angry with Colin so quickly. She wasn't Colin's keeper, she told herself. If he wanted to work for Richards, she couldn't and wouldn't try to talk him into quitting. But he shouldn't want to take such risks, she decided. If he cared at all about her, he wouldn't deliberately hurt her this way.

Alesandra tried to walk the anger away. She paced back and forth in front of the hearth for a good ten minutes, muttering all the while.

"Mother Superior would never place herself in danger. She knew how I depended upon her and she never would have taken risks. She loved me, damn it."

Even though she wasn't Catholic, Alesandra still made the sign of the cross after muttering that blasphemy.

"I doubt Richards would ask the nun to work for him, Alesandra."

Colin made that comment from the doorway. She had been so intent on her ranting and raving she hadn't heard the door open. She turned around and found her husband lounging against the frame. His arms were casually folded across his chest. He was smiling, but it was the tenderness she saw in his eyes that almost did her in. "Your amusement displeases me."

"Your behavior displeases me," he countered. "Why didn't you tell me you were upset about all this business with Richards?"

"I didn't know I was."

He raised an eyebrow over that odd admission. "Do you want me to quit?"

She started to nod, then changed her mind and shook her head instead. "I want you to want to quit. There's a difference, Colin. God willing, someday you might understand."

"Help me understand now."

She turned around to face the hearth before she spoke again. "I never would have taken deliberate risks while I lived at the convent-at least, not after the lesson I learned. There was a fire, you see, and I was trapped inside. I got out just as the roof collapsed. Mother Superior was beside herself with worry. She actually wept. She was so thankful I was all right and so furious with me because I'd taken one of the candles out of the holder so I could read Victoria 's letter instead of praying like I was supposed to be doing… and I

felt terrible because I'd caused her so much distress. The fire was an accident, but I made a promise to myself not to act foolish again."

"How did you act foolish if it was an accident?"

"I kept going back inside to save the pictures and the smaller statues the nuns put such store in."

"That was foolish."

"Yes."

"The mother superior loved you like a daughter, didn't she?"

Alesandra nodded.

"And you loved her."

"Yes."

A long minute passed in silence. "With love comes responsibility," she whispered. "I didn't realize that truth until I saw how upset Mother was with me."

"Do you love me, Alesandra?"

He'd cut right to the heart of the matter. She turned around to face him just as he pulled away from the doorway and started walking toward her. She immediately started backing away.

"I do not wish to love you."

The panic in her voice didn't stop him. "Do you love me?" he asked again.

It was a blessing there wasn't a fire burning in the hearth tonight. Her gown would have gone up in flames by now because she'd backed herself up against the stones.

Was she trying to get away from him or from his probing question? Colin wasn't certain. He was relentless, however, in his attempt to make her answer him. He wanted… no, he needed to hear her admit the truth.

"Answer me, Alesandra."

She suddenly quit trying to get away from him. She folded her arms in front of her and walked over to stand directly in front of him. Her head was tilted all the way back so she could look into his eyes.

"Yes."

"Yes, what?"

"Yes, I love you."

His satisfied grin said it all. He didn't seem at all surprised, and that thoroughly confused her.

"You already knew I loved you, didn't you?"

He slowly nodded. She shook her head. "How could you know when I didn't?"

He tried to take her into his arms. She quickly backed up a step. "Oh, no you don't. You want to kiss me, don't you? Then I'll forget my every thought. You will answer me first,

Colin."

He wouldn't be denied. He pulled her into his arms, nudged her chin up, and kissed her long and hard. His tongue swept inside to rub against her own. She let out a loud sigh when he finally lifted his head. She collapsed against his chest and closed her eyes. His arms were wrapped around her waist. He hugged her tight and let his chin drop to rest on the top of her head.

It felt so damn good to hold her. The end of his workday was now something he looked forward to, because he knew she would be home waiting for him.

It suddenly dawned on Colin that he liked having a wife. Not just any wife, he qualified to himself. Alesandra. He used to dread the evenings, and all because the pain in his leg was usually excruciating by then. His gentle little bride had taken his mind off his aches, however. She exasperated him and she enchanted him, and he was usually so busy reacting to her, there wasn't room in his mind for anything else.

And she loved him.

"Now I'll answer your question," he said in a husky whisper she found wonderfully appealing.

"What question?"

He laughed. "You really do forget your every thought when I touch you, don't you?"

"You needn't sound so happy over that shameful fact. You're above such behavior though, aren't you? Why, I imagine you're full of thoughts while you're kissing me."

"Yes, I am."

"Oh." She sounded crestfallen.

"And every one of them is centered on what I want to do to you with my mouth, my hands, my…"

She reached up and clamped her hand over his mouth as a precaution against hearing something indelicate. Her reaction made Colin laugh again.

He pulled her hand away and said, "You wondered when I realized you loved me."

"Yes, I did wonder."

"It was on our wedding night," he explained. "The way you responded to me made it obvious you were in love with me."

She shook her head. "It wasn't obvious to me."

"Sure it was, sweetheart," he replied. "You couldn't hold anything back. Your every reaction was so damn honest. You couldn't have let yourself go that completely unless you loved me."

"Colin?"

"Yes?"

"You really should do something about your arrogance It's getting out of hand."

"You like my arrogance."

She didn't reply to that outrageous remark. "I won't interfere in your schedule, Colin. I promise you."

"I never thought you would," he replied, smiling because she'd sounded so fervent.

"You haven't changed your plan, have you? You still need five full years before you…" She didn't go on.

"Before I what?"

Before you turn your attention to falling in love with your wife, you dolt, she thought to herself. And children, she added. In five years he would probably decide to have one or two. She wondered if she would be too old to have babies by then.

She definitely couldn't have one now. A baby would put too much pressure on Colin. Why, look how his partner, Nathan, had changed. He was now willing to do something he'd found unacceptable before. Selling stock was certainly a last resort, and it was the birth of his daughter that had changed his mind.

"Alesandra, before I what?" Colin asked again. The wistfulness in her voice puzzled him.

"Before you reach your goals," she blurted out.

"Yes," Colin said. "It's still five years."

He made that comment on his way over to the bed. He sat down on the side and bent to take his shoes off. "I didn't realize you were worried about my working for Richards," he said, turning the topic back to that issue. "You should have said something."

He tossed his shoes and socks aside, then turned his attention to his shirt. "And you were right when you said we're both responsible for each other. I haven't taken the time to consider your feelings. I'm sorry about that."

She watched him pull his shirt out of his waistband and work it up over his head. She couldn't take her gaze off him. She hung on his every word, hoping he would tell her how he felt about her. She didn't have enough gumption to ask him if he loved her. Colin hadn't had any problem asking her, she thought to herself. But then, he already knew her answer.

She didn't know his.

She had to shake her head over her own fanciful thoughts. Men didn't think about such things as love, or at least she didn't think they did. If Colin hadn't taken the time to consider her feelings regarding his dangerous work for Richards, why in heaven's name would he take the time to think about loving her? His mind was already completely full with his plans to build his company into an empire, and there simply wasn't room for anything else.

Alesandra straightened her shoulders and her resolve. She reminded herself that she found her husband's dedication admirable. She could be patient. Colin would get around to her in five years or so.

He drew her attention away from her thoughts when he said, "I've given my word to Richards I'd pass on a few papers for him." He paused to toss his shirt on the chair and stood up. "As for the other assignment I was offered, I'll let Morgan have it. In truth, I'd already decided against taking on the mission because it would have meant I'd have to be away from London for at least two weeks, possibly even three. Borders could have handled the office, of course, but I didn't want to leave you alone."

She thought that was the sweetest thing Colin had ever said to her. He would have missed her. She decided she wanted to hear him say the words.

"Why didn't you want to leave me alone?"

"Because of the policy, of course."

Her shoulders slumped. "Stefan and Raymond could watch out for me."

"You're my responsibility, Alesandra."

"But I don't wish to be your responsibility," she muttered. "You have enough on your mind. You don't need to add me to your list."

He didn't remark on that little speech. He unbuttoned his pants and stripped out of the rest of his clothes.

Her thoughts became fragments. She couldn't stop staring at her husband. Lord, he was magnificent. He was what she envisioned a warlord from bygone days must have looked like. Colin was all muscle, all power, and he had such sleek, smooth lines.

She followed him with her gaze as he crossed the room and bolted the bedroom door. He walked past her again on his way back to the bed. He pulled the covers back, straightened back up, and crooked his finger at her.

She didn't hesitate. She walked over to stand directly in front of him. Her hands were demurely folded in front of her. She looked serene, composed, but Colin knew better. The pulse in the base of her neck was beating frantically. He noticed when he lifted her hair away from her neck and bent down to kiss her.

She started to undress. Colin gently pushed her hands away from the bodice of her gown. "Let me," he whispered.

Her hands dropped back down to her sides. Colin was much quicker getting her clothes off than she was. He wasn't nearly as careful though. He didn't take the time to fold her garments but tossed them in a heap on top of his shirt. He was anxious to get to her bare skin. He noticed his hands shook when he untied the lace ribbon holding the neckline of her chemise in place and smiled over his lack of discipline.

He was surprised by his own quick response to her. His breathing was already ragged, his heartbeat was slamming inside his chest, and he hadn't even touched her yet-at least, not the way he wanted to touch her. Anticipation made him hard, aching.

Alesandra's thoughts were a little more centered. She was determined to get him to tell her he would have missed her if he'd taken the assignment.

When the last of her clothes had been discarded, she turned her gaze to her husband's chin and whispered his name. "Colin?"

"Yes?"

"If you'd left London, would you have missed me?"

He lifted her chin up so she would look at him. His smile was filled with tenderness. "Yes."

She was so pleased with his answer, she let out a little sigh. Colin leaned down and brushed his mouth over hers. "Do you wonder if I would have missed you?"

"No."

"Why not?"

He distracted her by taking her hands and placing them around his neck. Then he began to nibble on her earlobe. "Because I already know you'd miss me. You love me, remember?"

She couldn't fault that reasoning. Her husband certainly didn't have a problem with self-esteem. She thought to tell him so, and just as soon as he quit turning her thoughts into mush with his kisses, she would.

Colin placed wet kisses along the column of her throat. Her pulse was beating frantically now and she was already trembling in his arms. He thought that was a nice start.

He was slowly driving her crazy with his touch, and he knew it. That realization settled in her mind all at once.

Alesandra pushed herself away from him. He let her go, but the look on his face showed his confusion.

"What is it, sweetheart? Why did you push me away? I know you want me, and you sure as hell have to know how much I want you."

Alesandra was determined to turn the tables on her husband. She got into bed, moved to the center, and then knelt on her knees, facing him. She could feel herself blushing, but she absolutely refused to give in to her embarrassment. Colin was her husband and her lover, and she should be able to do anything she wanted with him.

She crooked her finger at him. He was so surprised by her boldness, he laughed. He got into bed and reached for her. She shook her head at him and pushed against his shoulders, telling him without words she wanted him on his back.

"Does my boldness please you?"

"Yes," he answered. "It pleases me."

It wasn't what he'd said as much as how he'd said it that gave Alesandra the courage to continue her game. She trailed her fingers down his chest.

"When you touch me, I go a little crazy," she whispered. "But tonight…"

She didn't go on. Her fingertips slowly circled his navel. She smiled over his quick indrawn breath when her hand moved lower.

"Yes?" he asked, his voice rough with need.

"You're going to lose your control before I lose mine. Do you accept my challenge, husband?"

In answer Colin stacked his hands behind his head and closed his eyes. "I'll win, Alesandra. I have far more experience."

She laughed over that boast. Odd, but admitting she loved him had somehow freed her from all restraint. She felt wild, wanton, and she didn't care at all that she wasn't being dignified. She really didn't think it was possible to maintain decorum when she was stark naked. "Thank you for telling me I love you, Colin."

"You're welcome, sweetheart."

He was tense with anticipation. His voice was gritty when he said, "Are you about finished working up your courage?"

"I'm planning my attack," she countered.

That remark made him smile. She was highly curious about his body. She wanted to learn the taste of him just as he had learned the taste of her. The thought of what she wanted to do to him made her blush intensify, but Colin's eyes were closed so she didn't worry about hiding her embarrassment.

"Colin, is… everything permitted or is there something I shouldn't do?"

"Nothing's forbidden," he replied. "Our bodies belong to each other."

"Oh, that's nice."

She leaned back on her heels while she considered where she would like to start. His neck appealed to her, but then so did the rest of his body.

"Sweetheart, I'm going to fall asleep if you don't get started," he announced.

Alesandra decided not to waste time getting to the area that most intrigued her.

He should have kept his eyes open. When he felt her mouth on the tip of his erection, he damn near came off the bed. His groan of pleasure came out as a raw shout.

He came undone. It took every ounce of discipline he possessed not to spill his seed then and there. Perspiration broke out on his brow. Her sweet tongue flicked over his sensitive skin until he was in acute agony to let himself climax.

He couldn't take the torment long. He suddenly let out a low growl as he grabbed hold of her shoulders and lifted her upward. He forced her thighs apart with his knee so that she would straddle his hips, cupped the back of her neck with his hand to bring her mouth down to his, and then sealed her soft lips with his as he thrust inside her with one hard surge. The liquid heat he felt told him she was ready for him. His hands dropped to the sides of her hips and he forced her upward so that he could thrust back inside again. He was beyond reason now, and as soon as he felt her instinctively tighten around him, he was powerless to control his body's reaction. His climax caught him by surprise. He let out another loud groan as he poured his seed into her.

Touching her husband so intimately and watching his own uninhibited response had heightened Alesandra's pleasure. He found his own release before she did, but he didn't stop moving inside her. The ecstasy was almost too much to endure. She whimpered his name when the heat began to uncoil and spread like wildfire through her body. Her head fell back in surrender to the bliss. Colin felt the first tremors of her release and reached down between their joined bodies to stroke her. His touch helped her gain her own fulfillment. She arched against him, rigid with the consuming pleasure cascading down her limbs.

The tremors seemed to go on and on, overwhelming in their intensity, yet she wasn't at all afraid because Colin wrapped his arms around her and pulled her down against his chest. He held her close, keeping her safe until the storm of passion eased.

The beauty of their lovemaking was too much for her. She was so shaken by what had just happened she began to cry great gulping sobs against his neck.

Colin was just as shaken. He stroked her back and whispered honeyed words in a voice as ragged as a winter's wind until she regained a bit of her composure.

"Each time it gets better," she whispered.

"Is that so terrible?" he asked.

"I'll be dead in a week," she countered. "Can't you feel how my heart is hammering away? I'm certain this can't be at all good for me."

"If you die, sweetheart, you'll die happy," he boasted. "You liked being on top, didn't you?"

She slowly nodded. "I won the challenge, didn't I?"

His laughter filled the room. "Yes," he conceded.

She was content. She closed her eyes and snuggled against her husband.

"We forgot to eat our supper," she whispered.

"We'll eat later," he replied. "After I have my turn."

She didn't understand what he meant. "After you have a turn at what?"

Colin rolled her onto her back and covered her with his body. He braced his weight on his elbows and smiled down at her.

When his mouth was just an inch away from hers, he answered her. "Winning."

Chapter 12

Loving and liking Colin were two different kettles of fish altogether. The man was impossible to reason with but extremely easy to kiss. She knew better than to offer him what was left of her inheritance to put into his company, and she finally had to resort to plain old-fashioned trickery in order to help him. She followed her father's example, and she told herself more than once that God would understand even if Colin didn't. Her husband would eventually get over his stubbornness, but she wasn't willing to let outsiders buy into his company while she waited for him to come to his senses.

The stock went public at ten o'clock on a Wednesday morning. Two minutes later, the transactions were complete and all twenty shares were sold. The price was extremely high.

Colin was stunned by the amount. He was suspicious, too. He demanded to know the names of the new stockholders. Dreyson would only tell him there was a single buyer of all twenty shares, but that he wasn't at liberty to divulge the buyer's name.

"You will answer one question for me," Colin demanded. "I want to know if my wife's name is on the shares as owner."

Dreyson immediately shook his head. "No, Sir Hallbrook," he was able to admit quite honestly. "Princess Alesandra isn't the owner."

Colin was satisfied the broker was telling the truth. A sudden possibility then occurred to him. "And her adviser, the man she calls Uncle Albert? Is he the owner."

"No," Dreyson immediately answered. "I'm certain he would have snapped at the chance but the shares were all sold within a blink of the eye. There wasn't time to notify him."

Colin finally let the matter drop. Alesandra said a prayer of thanksgiving because her husband wasn't going to probe deeper.

She felt extremely guilty because she'd used trickery. She knew it was wrong to manipulate her husband, but she blamed her sin on his stubbornness. She thought she could put the deceit behind her, too, yet found that the longer she went without confessing the truth to her husband, the more miserable she became. She did a lot of muttering to herself. Thankfully, Colin wasn't there to hear her. He was working twelve-hour days at the shipping company. Flannaghan heard her carrying on, of course, but he believed she was just in an irritable mood because of her long confinement.

The month actually did hurry by. Catherine's ball was reported to have been a smashing success, and the event was recounted in vivid detail by both the duchess and her daughter-in-law, Lady Jade. They were sorry Alesandra couldn't attend, of course, but they understood the reason behind Colin's decision to make her stay under lock and key.

Catherine stopped by the following afternoon to add her own descriptions. She announced she was already in love with a marquess and two earls. She was anxiously waiting to receive notes through her father for permission for the gentlemen to call on her.

Because Colin was working such long hours, Alesandra treasured their time together and didn't like bringing up business matters. Still, there were times when it was necessary. The rental agent notified Flannaghan that the owners had decided to stay abroad and wished to sell their town house. Alesandra had become attached to her home and wanted to purchase it. She eased into the topic at the dinner table.

Colin's attitude toward her inheritance hadn't changed. He told her he didn't care what she did with her money.

Then she became more specific. "I would like to purchase this town house," she announced.

She didn't give him time to deny her request right away, but hurried on with her explanation. "Because of your ignorant English law, it's almost impossible for a married woman to make a contract on her own. I wouldn't bother you with this matter, but I need your signature on the papers."

"The reason for that law is simple to understand," he countered. "Husbands are legally responsible for any and all ventures their wives enter into."

"Yes, but the issue under discussion…"

"The issue is rather or not I can provide for you," he interrupted. His voice had gone hard. "Do you doubt I'll be able to provide for you?"

"No, of course not," she replied.

He nodded, satisfied. She let out a sigh. He wasn't going to be at all reasonable about this. She briefly considered using her initials and claiming Uncle Albert had purchased the town house for them, then discarded the idea. Colin was bound to pitch a fit. Besides, such trickery would be an out-and-out lie, and she doubted God would forgive her this transgression where her motives were only selfish ones. Using a little bit of deceit to secure the stocks and keep them in the family in order to help Colin and his partner was one thing, but manipulating the purchase of a home just because she'd taken a fancy to it was quite another. Her list of sins had grown by leaps and bounds since she'd married Colin, she supposed, but most of her offenses were surely under God's column of minor transgressions. A blatant lie told to get her own way would definitely come under the heading of more serious sins. She couldn't deceive him. "As you wish, Colin. I would like you to note that I believe you're being extremely unreasonable about this."

"So noted," he replied dryly.

He didn't even let her have the last word this time. Yet although he was frequently insensitive to her needs, he was quite the opposite with other people. He could actually be very thoughtful upon occasion. After the month was over and Raymond and Stefan were no longer needed to guard her, Colin offered them employment with his company. The men were eager to work on a ship and travel the world, as they were both young and unattached, and Colin put them under the supervision of his friend, Jimbo, so they would be properly trained.

Colin continued to be a very passionate lover. He spent every night in her bed, and after he made love to her, he held her close until he thought she had fallen asleep. Then he went back to his own room. Alesandra was afraid to make an issue out of the ritual because her husband had made it quite clear he didn't want to talk about his leg. He all but pretended he didn't even have a problem. She didn't understand how his mind worked. Did it make him feel inferior if he acknowledged a human frailty? And if he loved her, wasn't it his duty to share his joys and his sorrows with her? But Colin didn't love her-at least, not yet, Alesandra reminded herself. She wasn't disheartened, however, because she had complete faith in her husband. He was an intelligent man, after all, and in time she felt certain his attitude would soften and he'd realize what a fine wife she was. If he didn't get around to the realization for five years, that was all right. She could wait. She would keep her promise to him, too. She wouldn't interfere.

The inserts she'd had made for her husband's shoes didn't qualify as interference in her mind, however. She took great delight in the fact that he was now wearing the special pair of Wellingtons almost every day. The bootmaker had made two leather inserts. The first was too thick, or at least she thought it must have been too thick because Colin only wore the boots for a few minutes before taking them off and putting on another pair. The second insert she'd slipped under the lining worked much better. Colin believed he'd broken in the boots and they were now comfortable. She knew better, of course, but she didn't say a word. Neither did Flannaghan. The butler whispered to Alesandra that he'd noticed his employer's limp wasn't quite as pronounced at the end of the day. Alesandra agreed. She was so pleased with the success of her plan she immediately ordered two extra inserts made so that her husband would have comfortable walking shoes and evening dress shoes as well.

To the outside world, Colin appeared to be a man without a care in the world. He always wore a devil-may-care smile, and he was one of the most popular men in London. When he entered a room, he was immediately surrounded by friends. The women wouldn't be left out either. It didn't matter to most of the ladies that he was now married. They continued to flock to his side. Colin was a charmer, yes, but he wasn't a flirt. He usually had hold of Alesandra's hand while he went about the task of mixing business with pleasure. Colin wasn't just intelligent-he was clever, too. Most of the shipping deals were negotiated in the ballrooms. When she realized that fact, she didn't mind the late hours they kept every night.

She did do quite a bit of napping, though. She and Colin attended parties almost every night for two full months, and she was so exhausted she was seized with attacks of nausea.

She was looking forward to tonight's affair, however, because Colin's family was also going to be attending the Earl of Allenborough's bash. The duke and duchess were escorting their daughter Catherine, and Colin's brother, Caine, and his wife were also going to be there.

The earl had rented Harrison House for the ball. The magnificent marble and stone estate was almost as large as the prince regent's palace.

Alesandra wore her ivory-colored gown. The neckline wasn't overly revealing, but Colin still felt compelled to grumble about it. Her only adornment was a beautiful gold and sapphire necklace that fit like a choker around her neck. There was only one sapphire in the center of the looped chain. The precious jewel was at least two carats in size and appeared to be flawless. Colin knew the thing was worth a bloody fortune, and he didn't like the idea of Alesandra wearing it.

"I have a special fondness for this necklace," she remarked once they were settled inside the carriage and on their way to the ball. "But I can tell from your frown you don't care for it. Why is that, Colin?"

"Why do you like it?"

Her fingertips brushed the necklace. "Because it belonged to my mother. Whenever I wear it, I'm reminded of her. The necklace was a gift to her from my father."

Colin's attitude immediately softened. "Then you should wear it."

"But why did it displease you? I saw the way you frowned when you first noticed it."

He shrugged. "I was displeased because I didn't buy it for you."

She didn't know what to make of that remark. She reached behind her neck and started to undo the clasp so she could take the necklace off. Colin stopped her. "I was being foolish. Leave it. The color matches your eyes."

From the look on her husband's face, she concluded he'd just given her a compliment and not a criticism. She folded her hands in her lap, smiled at her husband, and changed the subject. "Shouldn't your partner be home any day now?"

"Yes."

"Will I like him?"

"Eventually."

"Will I like his wife?"

"Yes."

She wasn't upset by his short answers. She could tell from his expression he was in pain. His leg was obviously acting up tonight, she speculated, and when Colin propped his foot up on the cushion next to her, she knew her guess was right.

It took all the self-control she could muster not to reach over and touch his leg. "We don't have to attend the affair tonight," she said. "You look weary to me."

"I'm fine." he said in a clipped, no-nonsense tone of voice. She decided not to argue with him.

She changed the topic again. "It's appropriate for us to give a gift to Nathan and Sara for their baby."

Colin had leaned back against the seat and closed his eyes. She wasn't certain if he was paying attention to what she was saying or not. She lowered her gaze to her lap and began to adjust the folds of her gown. "I didn't think you wanted to be bothered with the chore so I took care of it. Since you and Nathan own a shipping company, I thought it would be nice to have a replica of one of the ships made. What do you think of that idea? When they purchase a home, Sara could put our gift on her mantel."

"I'm sure she'll like it," Colin replied. "Whatever you decide is fine with me."

"There were several drawings of your ships in your library," she said then. "I hope you don't mind that I borrowed one of the Emerald to give to the craftsman."

The carriage came to a quick stop in front of Harrison House. Colin had looked half asleep until the door was opened by the coachman. Then his manner changed. He helped Alesandra out, took hold of her arm, and started up the steps. He spotted his brother and his wife walking toward them and immediately smiled.

Colin hadn't made a miraculous recovery. His smile was forced, but Alesandra knew she was the only one who realized how much pain he was in. The physician had told her that Colin should get off his leg when it pained him. Her husband wouldn't listen to such advice, however. He would probably dance the night away just to prove he was all right.

The night air was damp and chilly. Alesandra suddenly felt a bit lightheaded. Her stomach turned queasy, too, and she was thankful she hadn't eaten much of the light supper Cook had prepared. Exhaustion was surely the reason she wasn't feeling well, she told herself.

Jade noticed how pale Alesandra's complexion was and made that mention in front of their husbands. Both Caine and Colin turned to look at her.

"Why didn't you tell me you didn't feel well?" Colin asked.

"I'm just a little weary," she hastily replied. "Do quit frowning at me, Colin. I'm not accustomed to going out every night and that's why I'm a bit fatigued. 'Tis the truth, I would rather stay home every now and then."

"You don't like the parties?"

Her husband looked surprised. She lifted her shoulders in a shrug. "We do what we must," she replied.

"Explain what you mean, sweetheart."

He wasn't going to let the matter drop. "All right then," she said. "No, I don't particularly like the parties…"

"Why didn't you say something?"

He was exasperated with her. She shook her head at him. "Because each affair is a business opportunity for you and Nathan," she explained. "You don't like going out either," she added. "And that is why I said that we do what we must. I would have said something eventually."

His wife was an extremely astute woman. She'd understood his motives and known exactly how he'd really felt about all the parties he dragged her to. "Eventually?" he repeated with a grin. "When, exactly, would you have offered a complaint?"

"I would never complain and you should apologize for even suggesting I would," she countered. "Eventually would be exactly five years from now. Then I would mention my preference to stay home."

Caine smiled at Alesandra and said, "Be sure to thank your friend, Albert, for his advice regarding that investment. The stock has already increased threefold." She nodded.

"What investment?" Colin asked. Caine answered. "I mentioned I was interested in investment opportunities the last time I was over at your house, and Alesandra told me Albert had recommended shares in Campton Glass. It just went public."

"I thought you were investing in Kent 's garment factory." Jade interjected.

"I'm still considering it," Caine replied.

Alesandra shook her head before she could stop herself. "I don't believe that would be a wise investment, Caine. I do hope you'll give the matter careful consideration first."

She could feel Colin's gaze on her but didn't turn to look at him. "Albert was also interested in the garment factory. He had his broker, Dreyson, go and look at the place. Dreyson reported it was a fire trap and ill run. There are hundreds of women and children employed there and conditions are deplorable. Albert wasn't about to make the owner rich or get rich himself on such a venture. Why, he would be profiting from other people's misery-at least, that's what he told me in his last letter."

Caine immediately agreed. The topic was dropped when they entered the foyer of Harrison House. The duke and duchess were waiting in a nearby alcove with Catherine and immediately motioned for Caine and Colin and their wives to join them. Business matters were put aside. Catherine hugged Jade, then turned to hug Alesandra. She noticed the sapphire necklace right away and declared she was about to swoon with envy. Catherine wore a single strand of pearls around her neck. She absentmindedly fingered her necklace as she mentioned that her violet gown would look far more smashing if her father had given her a sapphire to wear.

Alesandra laughed over the not-too-subtle hint. Since no one was observing them, she quickly took off her necklace and handed it to Catherine.

"This belonged to my mother, so you must be very careful with it," Alesandra whispered so Colin wouldn't overhear her. "The clasp is quite secure and as long as you leave it on, you won't lose it."

Catherine gave a halfhearted protest as she unclasped her own necklace and handed it to Alesandra. Jade held on to Catherine's dance card while her sister-in-law put on the necklace, then made her turn around so that she could make certain the clasp was secure.

"You be careful with this," she ordered her.

Colin didn't notice the switch in jewelry for a good hour. Sir Richards came hurrying over to greet the family, and when Caine was occupied answering a question from his father, the director gave Colin the signal that he wanted to speak in private to him. The look on Richards's face indicated the matter was serious.

The opportunity for a quick conference arose when Colin's father requested a dance with Alesandra. As soon as they walked toward the center of the ballroom, Colin went over to the director. Richards stood at the entrance of a. triangular alcove, watching the crowd.

The two men stood side by side without speaking for several minutes. Colin noticed Neil Perry across the floor and immediately frowned with displeasure. He hoped Alesandra wouldn't notice the man. She was bound to try to comer him as soon as she spotted him and demand answers about his sister. Neil would turn insulting, of course, and Colin would probably have to smash his face in. That possibility made Colin smile. His sister drew his attention then. She was partnered with Morgan. Colin clasped his hands behind his back and watched the pair. Morgan spotted Colin and nodded to him. Colin nodded back.

Sir Richards also nodded to the new recruit. He smiled, too. For that reason Colin was surprised by his angry tone of voice when he spoke. "I shouldn't have given the assignment to Morgan," he whispered. "He made a muck of it. Do you remember Devins?"

Colin nodded. The man Richards referred to was an agent who was occasionally used to transfer information for the government.

"He's dead now. From what I can sort out, he got caught in the middle of what turned into a bloody fight. Morgan said Devins panicked. They were waiting for their contact when Devins's daughter came along. It was a bad piece of luck. The girl was killed in the cross fire. Damn it all, Colin, it should have gone as smooth as ice, but Morgan's eagerness and inexperience turned a simple, uncomplicated mission into a fiasco. Bad luck or not, the man doesn't have the instincts for this line of work," he added with a nod. "Don't use him again." Colin's voice shook with anger.

"Devins wasn't the type to panic. He had a temper, yes, but he could always be relied on to use sound judgment."

"Yes, under usual circumstances I would agree with your evaluation. However, he was also a protective father, Colin. I can imagine he did panic if he thought she was in danger."

"I would think a father would react in just the opposite manner. He had more reasons not to panic."

Richards nodded. "I've told Morgan he's out. He felt bad about my decision, of course. He was sorry it went sour and admitted he'd overreacted. He blamed you too, son, because you didn't go along and show him the ropes, so to speak."

Colin shook his head. He wasn't buying that excuse. From the look on the director's face, he wasn't buying it either.

"You're right, Richards. He doesn't have the instincts."

"It's a pity," the director remarked. "He's eager to please and he needs the money. I imagine he'll marry well. He's quite a charmer with the ladies."

Colin looked back at the dance floor. He found Morgan right away. He was smiling down at Catherine as he whirled her around the floor. His sister was laughing and obviously having the time of her life.

Colin noticed the necklace Catherine was wearing then. He immediately turned to find Alesandra in the crowd. He spotted his father first, then saw Alesandra. She was now wearing Catherine's pearls. Colin frowned with concern. The switch in jewelry wasn't the cause, however. His wife's complexion had turned as white as her gown. She looked ready to faint.

Colin excused himself from the director and went to his wife. He tapped his father on his shoulder and took Alesandra into his arms. She forced a smile and leaned into her husband's side.

The waltz ended just as Colin turned to take his wife out on the front terrace.

"You're really ill, aren't you, sweetheart?"

Caine was standing with his wife next to the doors leading outside. He took one look at Alesandra's complexion and immediately backed up a step. His sister-in-law's face was turning green. He hoped to God whatever was ailing her wasn't the catching kind.

Alesandra couldn't make up her mind whether she wanted to swoon or throw up. She prayed she wouldn't do either until she was home. The fresh air seemed to help, however, and after a minute or two, her head quit spinning.

"It was all that twirling around and around," she told her husband.

Caine let out a loud sigh of relief and stepped forward to offer his assistance. Colin left Alesandra leaning against his brother while he said their good-byes, then came back to collect her. She hadn't worn a cloak, so he took off his jacket and put it around her shoulders on the way down the steps to their waiting carriage.

Feeling better was short-lived. The rocking motion of the carriage made her stomach start acting up again. She gripped her hands together in her lap and took several deep breaths to calm herself.

Colin reached over and hauled her onto his lap. He tucked her head under his chin and held her tight.

He carried her inside the town house and up to her bedroom. He left her sitting on the side of the bed while he went to fetch a drink of cool water she'd requested.

Alesandra stretched out on top of the covers and closed her eyes. She was sound asleep a minute later.

Colin undressed her. Flannaghan was pacing with worry outside the door, but Colin wasn't about to let him help. He stripped his wife out of her garments and put her under the covers. She really was exhausted, for she slept like a baby now and didn't even open her eyes when he lifted her up so he could pull the blankets back.

He decided to spend the full night with her. If she became ill he wanted to be close by in case she needed his help. And, Lord, he was suddenly feeling exhausted, too. He stripped out of his own clothes and got into bed beside her. She instinctively rolled into his arms. Colin kissed her forehead, wrapped his arms around her, and closed his eyes. He, too, was asleep less than a minute later. He awakened a little before dawn when his wife rubbed her backside against him. She was still asleep. Colin was barely awake enough to think about what he was doing. He made love to her, and when they'd both found fulfillment, he fell asleep again still joined to her.

Alesandra was feeling as fit as ever the next day. Catherine arrived on her doorstep at two that afternoon to personally return the necklace. She was full of news, too.

She was having a grand time with her season and wanted to tell Alesandra all about the offers for her hand in marriage her father had already received.

Catherine linked her arm through Alesandra's and pulled her along into the salon.

"Where is my brother on this fine Sunday afternoon?"

"He's working," Alesandra answered. "He should be home by dinner."

Catherine sat down in the chair adjacent to the settee. Flannaghan stood near the entrance, waiting to find out if he was needed.

"I can barely keep all the gentlemen straight in my mind," Catherine exaggerated.

"You must make a list of the gentlemen you're interested in," Alesandra advised. "Then you wouldn't be confused."

Catherine thought that was a sound plan of action. Alesandra immediately asked Flannaghan to fetch her paper and pen.

"I've already asked father to decline several gentlemen and he's been very accommodating. He isn't in any hurry to get me settled."

"You should probably start a list of your rejections, too," Alesandra suggested. "With your reasons by each name, of course, in the event you change your mind or forget why you discarded them."

"Yes, that's a wonderful idea," Catherine claimed. "It's so thoughtful of you to help."

Alesandra was thrilled to be of assistance. "Organization is the key, Catherine," she announced.

"The key to what?"

Alesandra opened her mouth to answer, then realized she wasn't exactly sure. "To a well-structured, happy life," she decided aloud.

Flannaghan returned with the items she'd requested. Alesandra thanked him and then turned back to Catherine. "Shall we begin with the rejections?"

"Yes," Catherine agreed. "Put Neil Perry at the top of the list. He offered for me yesterday. I don't like him at all."

Alesandra titled the list, then put Perry's name down. "I don't particularly like him either," she announced. "You've shown sound judgment in rejecting him."

"Thank you," Catherine replied. "What specific reason should I put next to his name?"

"Disgusting."

Alesandra laughed. "He is that," she remarked. "He's the complete opposite of his sister. Victoria 's a dear lady."

Catherine didn't know Victoria and therefore couldn't agree or disagree. She continued with the names of men she found unacceptable. She hurried through the task since she was anxious to concentrate on the appealing candidates. She also had additional news she was dying to share with Alesandra.

"All right, then, let's begin with the second list." Catherine gave her four names. The last was Morgan. "He hasn't offered for me, of course, and I only just met him last night, but, Alesandra, he's so handsome and charming. When he smiles, I declare, my heart feels like it's going to stop beating. I doubt I'll stand a chance with him, though. He's extremely popular with the ladies. Still, he did mention he was going to ask father if he could call."

"I've met Morgan," Alesandra replied. "And I do agree he's charming. I believe Colin likes him, too."

"He would be a fine catch," Catherine decided. "Still… there is one other I would like to consider as well."

"What is his name and I'll add him to your list." Catherine started blushing. "It's the most romantic thing," she whispered. "But Father wouldn't think so. You must promise not to tell anyone."

"Tell what?"

"Just promise me first, then I'll explain. Put your hand over your heart. That makes your promise more binding."

Alesandra didn't dare laugh. Catherine sounded so sincere. She didn't want to hurt her feelings. She did as she was instructed and placed her hand over her heart while she gave her pledge.

"Now will you explain?"

"1 don't know the gentleman's name yet," Catherine said. "He was at the ball last night. I'm certain of it. I'm certain he's wonderful, too."

"How can you know he's wonderful if you've never met him? Or did you meet him? That's it, isn't it? You just don't know his name. Tell me what he looks like. Perhaps I've met the man."

"Oh, I haven't seen him yet."

"You're confusing me."

Catherine laughed. "He has a name we can put on the list for now."

Alesandra dipped her pen into the inkwell. Catherine waited until she'd completed that task, then whispered, "My Secret Admirer."

She let out a long happy sigh after whispering the name. Alesandra gasped at the very same time. She dropped her pen into her lap. Ink blotted her pink dress.

"Good heavens, look what you've done," Catherine cried out. "Your dress…"

Alesandra shook her head. "Forget the dress," she countered. Her voice shook with worry. "I want to hear about this secret admirer."

Catherine frowned. "I haven't done anything wrong, Alesandra. Why are you so upset with me?"

"I'm not upset… at least not with you," Alesandra said.

"You shouted at me."

"I didn't mean to shout."

She saw the tears in Catherine's eyes then. Her sister-in-law was high-strung, and her feelings were easily hurt. She was still more child than woman, Alesandra realized, and she made up her mind then and there not to tell her about her worries. She would talk to Colin first. He would know what to do about the secret admirer.

"I'm sorry I upset you. Please forgive me." She forced a mild tone of voice when she added, "I'm very interested in hearing all about this secret admirer. Will you explain?"

Catherine blinked away her tears. "There isn't much to explain," she said. "I received a lovely posey this morning with a notecard attached. There wasn't a message-just the signature."

"Which was?"

"Your Secret Admirer. I thought it was very romantic. I don't understand why you're acting so strange."

"Dear God." Alesandra whispered those words and collapsed against the back of the settee. Her mind raced with her fears. Colin would have to listen to her, she decided, even if she had to tie the man up while he slept to get her way.

"You're shivering, Alesandra," Catherine said. "I'm just a little chilled."

"Mother told Jade she thinks you're carrying."

"I'm what?"

She hadn't meant to shout, of course, but Catherine's blurted-out remark did surprise a near scream out of her. "They think you might be carrying Colin's baby," Catherine explained. "Are you?"

"No, of course not. It isn't possible. It's too soon."

"You've been married over three months now," Catherine reminded her. "Mother told Jade your nausea could be a symptom. She's going to be disappointed if you're not carrying. Are you sure, Alesandra?"

"Yes, I'm sure."

She wasn't telling Catherine the truth. She really wasn't sure at all. Good Lord, she could be pregnant. It had been quite a long time since her last monthly-over three months ago. She counted back just to be certain. Yes, that was right. She had had cramps two weeks before she got married… and none since. Was it possible the stomach upset wasn't due to exhaustion? She'd never napped before, she thought to herself, but now she could barely get through a day without an afternoon rest. Of course, she and Colin had bad to go out every night, and she really believed the late hours they were keeping made the afternoon naps necessary.

Her hand dropped to her stomach in a protective gesture. "I would like to have Colin's children," she said. "But he has an important schedule and I promised not to interfere."

"What does a schedule have to do with babies?" Alesandra tried to pull herself together. She felt as though she were in a daze. She couldn't seem to organize her thoughts. Why hadn't she realized… the possibility… the only logical answer… Oh, yes, she was pregnant. "Alesandra, do explain," Catherine demanded.

"It's a five-year schedule," Alesandra blurted out. "I'll have children then."

Catherine thought she was jesting with her. She burst into laughter. Alesandra was able to maintain her composure until her sister-in-law took her leave a few minutes later. Then she hurried up to her bedroom, shut the door behind her, and promptly burst into tears.

She was filled with the most conflicting emotions. She was thrilled she was carrying Colin's son or daughter. A precious life growing inside her seemed a true miracle to her and she was fairly overwhelmed with her joy-and her guilt.

Colin might not be happy about the baby at all. Alesandra didn't have any concerns about his ability to be a good father, but wouldn't a child now be an added burden? Oh, God, she wished he loved her. She wished he wasn't so stubborn about her inheritance, too.

She didn't want to feel guilty, and how in heaven's name could she feel so euphoric and frightened at the same time? Flannaghan came upstairs with a cup of hot tea for his mistress. He was about to knock on her door when he heard her crying. He stood there, uncertain what to do. He wanted to find out what was wrong, of course, so that he could try to help, but she had closed the door, indicating she wanted privacy.

He heard the front door open and immediately turned back to the steps. He'd reached the landing when Colin walked inside. He wasn't alone. His partner, Nathan, followed behind him. The man was so tall, he had to duck his head under the arch of the doorway.

Flannaghan knew better than to blurt out his worry about his mistress in front of company. He hurried down the steps, bowed to his employer, and then turned to greet his partner.

"We'll go into the salon," Colin said. "Caine and his wife are going to be joining us shortly. Where's Alesandra?"

"Your princess is above the stairs resting," Flannaghan answered. He was trying to act like a dignified man of the house. He had met Nathan before, of course, yet was still a bit intimidated by the man.

"Let her rest until my brother gets here." He turned to his partner and said, "We've had to go out every damn night. Alesandra is exhausted."

"Does she like going out every night?" Nathan asked.

Colin smiled. "No."

A knock sounded at the door just as Colin and his partner walked into the salon. Flannaghan assumed the callers were Colin's family. He hurried to open the door and was in the process of bowing low when he realized it was just a messenger boy standing on the stoop. The messenger held a white gift box tied with a red ribbon. He thrust the package at Flannaghan.

"I've been given a coin to see Princess Alesandra gets this," he announced.

Flannaghan took the box, nodded, and then shut the door. He turned to go up the stairs, smiling now, for he had a good reason to interrupt his princess and hopefully, once he was inside her room, he could nag out of her the reason why she was so upset.

The door knocker sounded again. Flannaghan put the box down on the side table and went back to the front door. Less than a minute had passed and he thought the messenger had returned.

Colin's brother and his wife waited entrance. Lady Jade gave Flannaghan a nice smile. Caine was barely paying attention to the butler, however. He was diligently frowning down at his wife.

"Good afternoon," Flannaghan announced as he pulled the door wide.

Jade hurried inside. She greeted the butler. Caine gave him a nod. He seemed preoccupied.

"We are not finished with this discussion," he told his wife in a hard, no-nonsense tone of voice.

"Yes, we are finished," she countered. "You're being extremely unreasonable, husband. Flannaghan, where are Colin and Nathan?"

"They're waiting for you in the salon, milady."

"I'm going to get to the bottom of this, Jade," Caine muttered. "I don't care how long it takes."

"You're being unreasonably jealous, Caine."

"Damn right I am."

He made that emphatic statement of fact in a loud voice as he followed his wife into the salon.

Both Nathan and Colin immediately stood up when Jade entered the salon. Nathan took his sister into his arms and hugged her tight. He glared at Caine because he had raised his voice to his sister, then added a rebuke.

"A husband shouldn't raise his voice to his wife."

Caine laughed. Colin joined in. "You've done a complete turnaround," Caine remarked. "I seem to remember you were always shouting."

"I'm a changed man," Nathan replied in a calm, matter-of-fact voice. "I'm content."

"I'll wager your Sara's probably doing all the yelling now," Colin said.

Nathan grinned. "The little woman does have a temper," he remarked.

Jade sat down in the chair next to Nathan's. Her brother resumed his seat and turned his attention back to Caine. "Are you two having a difference of opinion?"

"No," Jade replied.

"Yes," Caine answered at the very same moment.

"I don't wish to speak about this now," Jade announced.

She deliberately turned the topic. "I'm dying to see the baby, Nathan. Does she look like you or Sara?"

"She's got my eyes and Sara's feet, thank God," Nathan replied.

"Where are they now?" Colin asked.

"I dropped Sara at her mother's so she could show off the baby."

"Are you staying with her family while you're in London?" Caine asked.

"Hell, no," Nathan answered. There was a true shudder in his voice. "They would drive me daft and I'd probably kill one of them. We're staying with you."

Caine nodded. He smiled, too. How like Nathan to instruct instead of ask. Jade clasped her hands together with joy. She was obviously thrilled with the news.

"Where is your wife?" Nathan asked Colin.

"Flannaghan went upstairs to get her. She'll be down in a minute."

One minute turned into ten. Alesandra had already taken off her ink-stained gown and put on a pretty violet-colored dress. She was sitting at her writing table, absorbed in her fanciful task of making a list of duties for Colin. She would never show the list to her husband, of course, because none of the orders were appropriate. Wives, she was learning, did better to suggest to their husbands. Most, including Colin, didn't like being ordered to do anything.

Still, it was quite all right to pretend, and it did make her feel better to write down her expectations. She put Colin's name at the top of the paper. The list of orders followed.

First, he should listen to his wife explain her concerns about the alarming coincidences involving Victoria and a man who called himself a secret admirer. In brackets she wrote Catherine's name.

Second, Colin should do something about his attitude toward her inheritance. In brackets she added the words too stubborn.

Third, Colin shouldn't wait five years to realize he loved her. He should realize it now, and tell her so.

Fourth, he should try to be happy he was going to become a father. He shouldn't blame her for interfering with his schedule.

Alesandra read over her list and let out a loud sigh. She was so thrilled she was going to have Colin's baby and so afraid he would be unhappy, she wanted to weep and shout at the same time.

She let out a long sigh. It wasn't like her to be so disorganized or so emotional.

She added a question to her list: "Can pregnant wives become nuns?"

She wasn't quite finished and added one more sentence: "Mother Superior loves me."

There-that important reminder made her feel a little better. She nodded, calmer now, and lifted the sheet of paper in her hands with the intent of tearing it up.

Flannaghan interrupted her. He knocked on her door and when she bid him enter he rushed inside.

He was relieved to see his princess had quit weeping. Her eyes still looked a bit swollen, but he didn't mention her condition and neither did she."

"Princess, we have…"

She didn't let him finish. "Pray forgive me for interrupting, but I don't want to forget my question to you. Has Cook been able to talk to anyone in the viscount's household yet? I know I've been pestering you with this matter and I do apologize, but I have sound reasons for wanting to know my answers, Flannaghan. Please be patient with me."

"She still hasn't run into any of the staff at market," Flannaghan replied. "May I offer a suggestion?"

"Yes, of course."

"Why not send her over to the viscount's town house? If she goes to the back door, the viscount won't know she called. I don't believe the staff would mention it to him."

She immediately nodded agreement. "That's a fine idea," she said in praise. "This is too important to put off any longer. Please ask Cook to go now. She can use our carriage."

"Oh, no, Princess, she wouldn't wish to ride in the carriage. It wouldn't be proper. The viscount's residence is just a stone's throw away," he exaggerated. "She'll enjoy the brisk walk."

"If you're certain," Alesandra replied. "Now what was it you wanted to speak to be about before I interrupted you?"

"We have company," Flannaghan explained. "Your husband's partner is here. Milord's brother and his wife are with him."

She started to stand up, then changed her mind. "Wait just a minute and I'll follow you down. I've made a fresh list for you."

Flannaghan smiled in anticipation. He'd learned to love her lists, because in his heart he knew she cared about him enough to help him become organized. She always included little bits of praise along with her suggestions for tasks she believed he would wish to complete for the day. His princess was always most appreciative, too, and gracious with her compliments.

He watched as she sorted through her pile. Alesandra finally found the sheet of paper with Flannaghan's name on it and handed it to him.

He tucked the list in his pocket and escorted her down the stairs. He spotted the package on the table in the foyer and only then remembered he was supposed to give it to her.

"That box arrived a few minutes ago," he told her. "Would you like to open it now or wait until later?"

"Later, please," she answered. "I'm most curious to meet Colin's partner first."

Colin was about to get up and go after his wife when she walked into the salon. The men immediately stood up. Alesandra went over to Jade, took hold of her hand, and told her how pleased she was to see her again.

"Damn, but you did all right, Colin."

Nathan whispered that praise. Alesandra didn't hear his remark. She finally gained enough courage to walk over to the huge man and smile up at him.

"Do I bow my head to a princess?" Nathan asked.

"If you do, I'll be able to kiss your cheek in appreciation. I'll need a ladder otherwise."

Nathan laughed. He leaned down, received a kiss on his cheek, and then straightened up again. "Now explain what you meant by appreciation," he ordered.

Lord, he was a handsome devil. Terribly soft-spoken too. "In appreciation for putting up with Colin, of course. I understand how your partnership works so well now. Colin's the stubborn one, and you're surely the peacemaker in the company."

Colin threw back his head and laughed heartily. Nathan looked a little sheepish.

"You've got it backwards, Alesandra," Caine explained. "Nathan's the stubborn one and Colin's the peacemaker."

"She calls me a dragon," Colin announced.

Alesandra frowned at her husband for giving away that secret, then walked over to sit on the settee next to him.

"Caine, quit glaring at your wife," Colin ordered.

"He's extremely upset with me," Jade explained. "And that's ridiculous, of course. I didn't encourage the attraction."

"I never said you did," Caine argued.

Jade turned to Colin. "He threw out the flowers. Can you imagine?"

Colin shrugged. He put his arm around Alesandra's shoulders and stretched out his legs in front of him. "I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about."

"You had better get this argument settled before I bring Sara and Joanna into your home. Daughters need a peaceful environment."

Nathan made that announcement. Caine and Colin turned to stare at him. They both looked incredulous. Nathan ignored them.

"Were you pleased when you found out you were going to become a father?" Alesandra tried to sound very nonchalant when she asked Nathan that question. She gripped her hands together in her lap.

If Nathan thought her question odd, he didn't remark on it. "Yes, I was very pleased."

"But what about your five-year schedule?" Alesandra asked.

"What about it?" Nathan countered, his confusion obvious.

"Didn't the baby interfere with your company plans?"

"No."

She didn't believe him. Nathan never would have sold company stock if it weren't for the baby. Colin had told her he wanted to purchase a home for his family.

She wasn't about to bring up that tender topic, however. "I see," she said. "You made allowances for such an eventuality in your schedule."

"Colin, what is your wife talking about?"

"When I first met Alesandra, I explained I wasn't going to get married for five years."

"Or have a family," she interjected with a nod.

"Or have a family," he repeated just to please her.

Caine and Jade shared a look. "How organized of you," Caine told his brother.

Alesandra believed Colin's brother had just given a compliment. "Yes, he is very organized," she enthusiastically agreed.

"Plans have a way of changing," Jade said. She was looking at Alesandra when she made that remark. Her expression was filled with sympathy. Alesandra was suddenly looking quite miserable. Jade believed she knew why.

"A baby is a blessing," she blurted out.

"Yes," Nathan agreed. "Jade's correct, too, when she says plans have a way of changing," he added with a nod. "Colin and I were counting on my wife's inheritance from the king to strengthen the company funds, but the prince regent decided to keep the money and we had to turn our minds to finding other solutions."

"Hence the five-year schedule," Colin explained.

Alesandra looked like she was about to burst into tears. Caine felt like throttling his brother. If Colin would only look at her face, he would know something was terribly wrong. His brother obviously didn't have a clue, however, and Caine didn't believe he should interfere… yet.

Alesandra was caught up in her own thoughts. She could feel herself getting angry over Nathan's casually given remark. He had made it quite clear that neither he nor Colin had any qualms about using Sara's inheritance. Why, then, was Colin so stubbornly resistant to using some of hers?

Colin drew her attention when he spoke again. "Caine, will you quit scowling at your wife."

"He blames me," Jade announced.

"I do not blame you," Caine argued.

"Blames you for what?" Colin asked.

"I received a bundle of flowers this morning. There wasn't a note, just a signature."

Nathan and Colin frowned in unison.

"You received flowers from another man?" Nathan asked, his astonishment clear.

"Yes."

Nathan turned to glare at his brother-in-law. "You damn well better do something about this, Caine. She's your wife. You can't allow another man to send her flowers. Why the hell haven't you killed the bastard?"

Caine was thankful Nathan had taken his side. "I'm damn well going to kill him just as soon as I find out who he is."

Colin shook his head. "You can't kill anyone," he announced in exasperation. "You're going to have to be reasonable about this, Caine. Sending flowers isn't a crime. He's probably just some young pup caught up in an infatuation."

"It's fine for you to be reasonable, Colin. Jade isn't your wife."

"I would still be reasonable if the flowers had been sent to Alesandra," Colin argued.

Caine shook his head.

"Tell us his name, Jade," Nathan demanded.

No one was paying any attention to Alesandra. She was thankful for their inattention. Her mind raced with speculations. She'd shaken her head when Colin had guessed it was just a young man caught up in an infatuation.

"Yes," Colin asked Jade then. "Who sent them?"

"He signs all his cards Your Secret Admirer," said Alesandra.

Everyone turned in unison to stare at her. Jade's mouth dropped open.

"Isn't that right, Jade?"

Her sister-in-law nodded. "How did you know?"

Nathan leaned back in his chair. "There's more to this than admiration, isn't there?"

No one said a word for a long minute. Alesandra suddenly remembered the package Flannaghan had told her had been delivered. She tried to go and get it. Colin wouldn't let her move. He tightened his hold on her shoulder.

"I believe the man might have sent something to me," she explained. "There's a package in the foyer."

"The hell he did. Flannaghan!"

Colin roared the summons. Alesandra's ears started ringing. Flannaghan came running. He had the package in his hands, indicating he'd been listening to the conversation. He all but tossed the thing to Colin.

Alesandra reached for the package. Colin's glare changed her mind. She leaned back against the settee and folded her hands. Colin leaned forward to attack the box. He ripped the bow off, muttering under his breath, then tore the lid free and looked inside. Alesandra peeked around her husband's shoulder to see what was there. She got a glimpse of the ornately painted fan before Colin slammed the lid back down on the box.

"Son of a bitch!" Colin roared. He repeated the shameful blasphemy a second time. Nathan, Alesandra noticed, nodded each time the foul words were said. Apparently those were his sentiments as well.

Colin held the notecard in his hand and glared at it.

"Aren't you going to be reasonable about this?" Caine challenged.

"Hell, no."

"Exactly," Caine muttered.

"One more and you'll have enough for a lynch mob," Jade announced. "Will you look at our husbands, Alesandra? They're blowing this all out of proportion. Such jealousy is unfounded," she added.

She expected Alesandra's agreement and was therefore surprised when her sister-in-law shook her head.

"Colin and Caine shouldn't be jealous," Alesandra whispered. "But they should be worried."

"How did you know what was signed on the card?" Nathan asked. "Have you received other gifts?"

Colin turned to look at her. His expression was chilling. So was his tone of voice when he said, "You would have told me if you'd received any other gifts. Isn't that right, Alesandra?"

She was thankful she could agree with him. Colin's fury was actually a little frightening. "Yes, I would have told you, and no, I haven't received any other gifts."

Colin nodded. He leaned back, put his arm around her shoulders again, and hauled her up tight against his side. She found his possessiveness a comfort now and didn't mind at all that he was inadvertently squeezing the breath right out of her.

"You know more than you're telling," Nathan announced.

Alesandra nodded. "Yes," she answered. "And I've been trying to get someone to listen to me for a good long while. I even asked Sir Richards for help."

She turned to frown at her husband. "Are you ready to hear what I have to say?"

Colin was a bit surprised by his wife's comments, of course, but he was astonished by her angry tone of voice.

"What have you been trying to tell me?"

" Victoria received letters and gifts from a secret admirer."

Colin was taken aback by that reminder. Alesandra had tried to explain why she was worried about her friend and he hadn't let her. He should have listened, he realized now.

"Who is Victoria?" asked Caine.

Alesandra answered him. She explained how she'd met Victoria. "After she returned to England, she wrote to me at least once a month. I would immediately write back, of course, and I did love hearing from her. She had such an exciting life. In the last few letters, however, she mentioned an admirer who was sending her gifts. She thought it all very romantic. I received her last letter in early September."

"And what did she say in that letter?" Caine asked.

"She had decided to meet the man," Alesandra answered. "I was appalled, of course, and wrote back to her right away. I advised caution and suggested she take her brother with her if she was determined to find out who her admirer was."

Alesandra started to shiver. Colin instinctively hugged her. "I don't know if Victoria received my letter or not. She might have already been gone by then."

"Gone? Gone where?" Jade asked.

"It was reported Victoria ran off to Gretna Green," Colin explained. "Alesandra doesn't believe that."

"There isn't any record of a marriage," Alesandra countered.

"What do you think happened to her?"

Nathan asked her that question, and until that moment she hadn't allowed herself to voice her true fear. She took a calming breath and turned her gaze to her husband's partner.

"I think she was murdered."

~

He paced the library in a rage. None of it was his fault. None of it. He had stopped. He'd ignored the craving, hadn't given in to the urge. It wasn't his fault. No, it was the bastard who was responsible. He never would have killed again… he never would have given in to the urge.

Revenge. He would show him. He would get even. He would destroy him. He would begin by taking away everything he valued. He would make him suffer.

He smiled in anticipation. He would start with the women.

Chapter 13

That statement got an immediate reaction. "Good God," Caine whispered.

"Could it be possible?" Nathan asked.

"I hadn't realized…" Jade whispered that remark and placed her hand over her heart.

Colin was the last to react and the most logical in his response. "Explain why you believe this," he commanded.

"Flannaghan, will you please go upstairs and fetch my list for me?"

"You have a list of reasons why you suspect your friend was murdered?" Caine asked.

"She has a list for everything."

Colin made that remark but she was pleased that he didn't sound at all condescending.

"Yes, I do have a list," Alesandra said. "I wanted to organize my thoughts about Victoria 's disappearance and try to come up with some sort of plan. I knew something was wrong as soon as I heard she'd eloped. Victoria never would have done such a thing. Appearances were more important to her than love. Besides, I don't think she would have allowed herself to fall in love with someone she believed inferior to her station in life. She was sometimes a little shallow-headed and a bit of a snob as well, but those were her only faults. She was also very kindhearted."

"He has to be someone in society," Nathan decided aloud.

"Yes, I think so, too," Alesandra agreed. "I also think this man begged her to meet him somewhere and that her curiosity led her to forget caution. She was certainly flattered by his attention."

"She must have been terribly naive," Jade remarked.

"So is Catherine."

"Catherine? What does my sister have to do with this?"

"She made me promise not to tell, but her safety is at issue and I must break her confidence. She also received flowers this morning."

"Hell, I need a brandy," Caine muttered.

Flannaghan returned to the salon just then. He handed a pile of papers to Colin to pass along to Alesandra. He'd heard Caine's request and immediately announced he would fetch the brandy.

"Bring the bottle," Caine ordered.

"I hope to God we're all jumping to the wrong conclusion," Nathan said.

"Better that we are," Caine countered. "Three women in our family are being courted by the bastard. Think the worst and plan accordingly," he added with a hard nod.

Colin was sorting through the stack of papers, looking for the list pertinent to their discussion. He was given pause when he saw his name at the top of one sheet.

Alesandra wasn't paying any attention to her husband now. Her gaze was centered on his brother.

"Caine, you don't have sufficient information to assume there are only three," she explained. "This man could have sent dozens of gifts to women all over London."

"She's right about that," Nathan agreed.

Caine shook his head. "My gut feeling is that he's coming after one of ours."

Colin had just finished reading Alesandra's list. It took everything he possessed not to show any reaction. His hand shook when he placed the paper on the bottom of the pile.

He was going to become a father. He was so damn pleased he wanted to take Alesandra into his arms and kiss her.

And what a time to find out, he thought to himself. Colin wouldn't let her know he'd read the list, of course. He would wait until she told him. He'd give her until tonight, when they were in bed together…

"Why are you smiling, Colin? It's a damn bizarre reaction to this topic," Caine told him.

"I was thinking about something else."

"Do pay attention," Alesandra requested.

Colin turned to look at her. She saw the warm glint in his eyes and wondered what in heaven's name he'd been thinking about to cause that reaction. Before she could ask him, he leaned down and kissed her.

It was a quick, hard kiss that was over and done with before she could react.

"For God's sake, Colin," Caine muttered.

"We're newly married," Alesandra blurted out, trying to find some excuse for her husband's display of affection.

Flannaghan came in with a tray loaded with goblets and a large decanter of brandy. He placed the tray on the table near Alesandra and leaned over to whisper close to her ear.

"Cook's back."

"Does she have news?"

Flannaghan eagerly nodded. Caine poured himself a drink and downed it in one long swallow. Both Nathan and Colin declined the brandy.

"May I have a drink, please?" Alesandra asked. She didn't particularly like the taste of brandy but she thought the warm liquid might take some of the chill out of her. She was feeling queasy, too, and she was certain the distressing talk about murder was the cause.

"Flannaghan, get Alesandra some water," Colin ordered.

"I would rather have brandy," she countered.

"No."

She was clearly astonished by his emphatic denial. "Why not?" Colin didn't have a quick answer for her question. He wanted to tell her brandy probably wasn't good for her delicate condition. He couldn't, of course, because she hadn't told him about the baby yet.

"Why are you smiling? I do declare, Colin, you're the most confusing man."

He forced himself back to the matter at hand. "I don't like you drinking," he announced.

"I never drink."

"That's right," Colin agreed. "And you aren't going to start now."

Flannaghan tapped Alesandra on her shoulder, reminding her of his message.

"Will you excuse me for a moment?" she asked. She noticed her lists were in his hands then. "What are you doing with those?"

"I'm holding them for you," he replied. "Would you like me to look through them for the list you made concerning Victoria?"

"No, thank you," she replied. She took the papers, found Victoria 's list second from the top, and then started to stand up. Colin shook his head at her and hauled her back.

"You aren't going anywhere."

"I must speak to Cook."

"Flannaghan can answer her questions."

"You don't understand," Alesandra said in a low whisper. "She went on a little errand for me and I wanted to find out the results."

"What errand?" Colin asked.

She debated answering him for a minute or two. "You'll get angry," she whispered.

"No, I won't."

Her expression told him she didn't believe him.

"Alesandra?"

He said her name in that warning tone of voice he was certain would make her wish to answer him with all possible haste, but when she smiled at him he knew she wasn't at all impressed.

"Please tell me," he asked.

He had asked, not ordered, and that made all the difference in her mind. She immediately answered him. "I sent her to the Viscount of Talbolt's town house. Before you get upset over this, Colin, do remember you ordered me not to talk to the viscount. I adhered to your wishes."

He was thoroughly confused. "I still don't understand," he admitted.

"I sent Cook to talk to Lady Roberta's staff. I wanted to find out if she'd received any gifts before she disappeared. Husband, we both know she didn't run away from her husband. Such an excuse is unthinkable."

"She did receive gifts," Flannaghan blurted out. "The viscount pitched a tantrum, too. Staff believes Lady Roberta ran off with the suitor. The viscount isn't talking but his employees believe he thinks his wife ran off, too. The upstairs maid told Cook the viscount has turned to drink to ease his torment and stays locked up in his library day and night."

"What the hell is going on here?" Caine asked. "Could there be a connection between the two women?"

"They both disappeared," Jade reminded her husband. "Isn't that connection enough?"

"That isn't what I meant, sweetheart."

"Maybe he's being random in his selection," Nathan suggested.

"There's always a motive," Colin argued.

"Perhaps with the first one," Nathan agreed.

Alesandra was confused by that comment. "Why a motive with the first and not the second?"

Nathan looked at Colin before answering. Colin nodded. "There was probably a motive behind the first murder," Nathan explained. "But then he got a taste for killing."

"Some do," Caine admitted.

"Dear God," Jade whispered. She visibly shivered. Caine immediately got up and went over to his wife. He pulled her out of the chair, sat down, and then settled her on his lap. She leaned against him.

"Do you mean to tell me he likes killing?" Alesandra asked.

"Could be," Nathan answered.

Alesandra's stomach turned queasy again. She leaned closer into her husband's side in an attempt to gain more of his warmth. She felt safe when she was near him-comforted, too. That was what love was all about, she thought to herself.

"We're going to have to get a lot more information," Caine announced.

"I tried to talk to Victoria 's brother, but he wasn't at all helpful," Alesandra said.

"He'll be helpful when I talk to him," Colin snapped.

"I can't imagine why he would cooperate," Alesandra replied. "You threw him out on the pavement the last time you spoke to him."

"What about asking Richards for some help?" Nathan suggested.

Alesandra closed her eyes and listened to the discussion. Colin was rubbing her arm in an absentminded fashion. His touch was wonderfully soothing. The men's voices were low and while they formulated their plans of action, she thought about how nice it was to finally have her husband's cooperation. She knew he would find out what happened to Victoria… and why. She didn't have any doubts about Colin's ability to find the culprit, because she was certain she was married to the most intelligent man in all of England. He was probably the most stubborn, too, but that flaw would come in handy now. He wouldn't quit until he had his answers.

"What the hell else do we do?" Caine asked.

Alesandra looked down at her list before she answered him. "You find out who profited from Victoria 's death. Colin, you could find out if any policies were taken out. Dreyson would be happy to help you."

All three men smiled in unison. "I thought you were asleep," Colin remarked.

She ignored that comment. "You should also consider all the other motives… in the general sense," she explained. "Jealousy and rejection are two motives. Neil mentioned his sister had turned down several proposals. Perhaps one of those men didn't like being told no."

It occurred to Jade that Alesandra was actually very astute. Colin was grinning, suggesting to Jade that he was also aware of his wife's cleverness, but Nathan and Caine hadn't realized it yet.

"Yes, of course, we'll look into every possible motive," Caine said. "I just wish we had a clue or two."

"Oh, but you do," Alesandra replied. "The fact that three women in your family have received gifts is clue enough, Caine. It occurs to me that one of you men or one of us women has offended the man."

Colin nodded. "That thought had already occurred to me," he said. "He's getting careless."

"Or more bold," Nathan interjected.

"Isn't everyone forgetting one important fact?" Jade asked.

"What's that?" Caine asked his wife.

"There aren't any bodies. We really could be jumping in the wrong direction."

"Do you think we are?" Alesandra asked.

Jade thought about it a long minute, then whispered, "No."

Colin took charge then. He gave everyone but Alesandra an assignment. He told Jade to talk to as many of the ladies of the ton as possible to find out if anyone else had received a gift. He warned her not to tell the women about the gifts she, Catherine, and Alesandra had received because some of the more foolish women might think this was all some sort of competitive game.

Nathan was given the duty of taking over the offices while Colin concentrated on finding answers.

"Caine, Alesandra's right. Neil won't talk to me. You'll have to deal with him."

"I will," Caine agreed. "I should also talk to Talbolt," he added. "We went to Oxford together and he might be more receptive to hearing me out."

"I'll talk to Father," Colin said then. "He's going to have to keep a watchful eye on Catherine until the bastard is caught."

Alesandra waited to hear what Colin wanted her to do. A few minutes passed before her impatience got the better of her. She nudged her husband to get his attention.

"Haven't you forgotten me?"

"No."

"What is my assignment, Colin? What do you want me to do?"

"Rest, sweetheart."

"Rest?"

She'd sounded incensed. Colin wouldn't let her argue with him. Caine was ready to leave. He lifted his wife off his lap and stood up. Nathan also stood and started for the door. "Come along, Alesandra. You need a nap," Colin said.

She certainly did not need a nap, she thought to herself, and if she hadn't been so tired she would have told him so. Arguing with her husband required stamina, however, and Alesandra didn't seem to have any left. The dark discussion had taken all of her energy.

Caine was smiling at her. Alesandra didn't want him to think she was a weakling, and she knew he'd heard Colin insist she rest. She shoved the list into his hands. "There are other motives I've written down you might wish to consider," she said.

Before Caine could thank her, she blurted out, "I am a little tired, but only because Colin and I have been keeping such late hours every night. He's weary, too," she added with a nod.

Caine winked at her. She didn't know what to make of that. Colin turned her attention then when he nudged her up the steps. Flannaghan saw their guests out.

"Why are you treating me like an invalid?"

She asked him that question in her bedroom. Colin was unbuttoning her dress for her. "You look worn out," he said. "And I like undressing you."

He was being terribly gentle with her. After she'd been stripped down to her white silk chemise, he leaned down, lifted the hair away from the back of her neck, and kissed her there.

He pulled the covers back and tucked her in bed. "I'm only going to rest for a few minutes," she said. "I don't dare fall asleep."

He bent over the bed and kissed her brow. "Why not?"

"If I sleep now, I won't be able to sleep tonight."

Colin started for the door. "All right, sweetheart. Just rest."

"Wouldn't you like to rest too?"

He laughed. "No. I have work to do."

"I'm sorry, husband."

He'd just pulled the door open. "What are you sorry about?"

"I always seem to interfere in your work. I'm sorry about that."

He nodded, started out the doorway, then changed his mind. He turned around and walked back to the side of the bed. It was ridiculous for her to apologize for interfering and he wanted to tell her so. She was his wife, after all, not some distant relative making a nuisance of herself.

He didn't say a word. He would have to wait until later to instruct his wife when she would listen to him. She was sound asleep now. He was a little amazed at how quickly she'd fallen asleep and immediately felt a little guilty because he'd kept her out every night. Damn, she looked so delicate and vulnerable to him.

Colin didn't know how long he stood there staring down at Alesandra. His mind was consumed with the need to protect her. He'd never felt this possessive… or this blessed, he suddenly realized.

She loved him.

And, Lord, how he loved her. The truth didn't sneak up on him and clobber him over the head, though the picture was fanciful enough to make him smile. He had known for a long time that he loved her, even though he had stubbornly refused to openly acknowledge it. God only knew he had all the symptoms of a man in love. From the moment he'd met her, he'd been acting terribly possessive and protective. He hadn't been able to keep his hands off her and for a long while he believed he was just consumed with a simple case of lust. After a time, he knew better. It wasn't lust at all.

Oh, yes, he'd loved her for a long time. He couldn't imagine why she loved him. Had she been awake, he might have asked her that question then and there. She certainly could have done better with someone else. Someone with a title… someone with land and inheritance… someone with a sound, healthy body.

Colin didn't think of himself as a romantic. He was a logical, practical man who had learned that he could achieve success if he worked hard enough. In a dark corner of his mind he had harbored the thought that God had turned his back on him. It was an unreasonable belief, and it had taken root right after his leg had been nearly destroyed. He remembered hearing the physician whisper the need to amputate the limb-remembered, too, his friend's vehement refusal. Nathan wouldn't let Sir Winters touch the leg, but Colin had still been so damned afraid to sleep for fear that when he awakened he wouldn't be whole again.

The leg had survived, but the constant pain he now lived with made the victory hollow indeed.

Miracles were for other people, Colin had always believed-until Alesandra came into his life. His princess actually loved him. In his heart he knew there weren't any restrictions or conditions surrounding her love. Had she met a man with only one leg, she would have loved him just as much. He would have gained her sympathy, perhaps, but certainly not her pity. Her every action showed her strength and her determination to take care of him.

She would always be there for him, nagging him and arguing with him-and loving him no matter what.

And that, Colin decided, was definitely a miracle.

God hadn't forgotten him after all.

She wanted to leave him. Alesandra knew she wasn't being reasonable, but she was so upset inside she could barely think what to do. Nathan's casual remark about how he and Colin had both counted on Sara's inheritance to help their shipping company played on her mind until she was ready to weep.

Colin, she decided, had rejected her on every level possible. He didn't want her to help him with his company books, he didn't want her inheritance, and he didn't particularly want-or need-her love. His heart seemed to be surrounded by shields, and Alesandra didn't believe she would ever be able to get him to love her.

She knew she was being pitiful. She didn't care. Mother Superior's letter had arrived that morning, and Alesandra had already read the thing at least a dozen times.

She wanted to go home. She was so horribly homesick for the nuns and the land, she burst into tears. It was quite all right, she decided. She was alone, after all, and Colin was working in his study with the door closed. He wouldn't hear her.

Dear God, she wished she wasn't so emotional these days. She couldn't seem to apply logic to anything. She stood at the window in her robe and gown, looking out, and her mind was so engrossed with her worries she didn't even hear the door open.

"What is it, sweetheart? Don't you feel well?"

Colin's voice was filled with concern. She took a deep, calming breath and turned to look at him.

"I would like to go home."

He hadn't been prepared for that request. He looked quite astonished. He was quick to recover. He shut the door behind him and walked toward her.

"You are home."

She wanted to argue with him. She didn't. "Yes, of course," she agreed. "But I would like your permission to go back to Holy Cross for a visit. The convent is just a walk away from Stone Haven, and I would like to see my parents' home again."

Colin walked over to her writing desk. "What is this really all about?" he asked her. He leaned against the edge of the table while he waited for her to answer him.

"I received a letter from Mother Superior today, and I'm suddenly very homesick."

Colin didn't show any outward reaction to her plea. "I can't take the time right now to…"

"Stefan and Raymond would go with me," she interrupted. "I don't expect you to go along. I know how busy you are."

He could feel himself getting angry. The very idea of his wife leaving on such a journey without him at her side appalled him. He stopped himself from immediately denying her request, however, because in truth he had never seen her this upset. It worried the hell out of him, given her delicate condition.

She was out of her mind if she thought he would ever let her go anywhere without him. He didn't tell her that opinion either.

He decided to use reason to make her understand. "Alesandra…"

"Colin, you don't need me."

He was taken aback by that absurd comment. "The hell I don't need you," he countered in a near shout.

She shook her head. He nodded. Then she turned her back on him.

"You have never needed me," she whispered.

"Alesandra, sit down."

"I don't wish to sit down."

"I want to talk to you about this…" He almost said he wanted to talk to her about her "ridiculous notion," but he caught himself in time.

She ignored him and continued to stare out the window.

He noticed the stack of papers on her desk and suddenly knew what he was going to do. He quickly sorted through her lists until he found the one with his name on the top.

She wasn't paying any attention to him. He folded the sheet in half and tucked it in his pocket. Then he ordered her to sit down again. His voice was harder, more insistent.

She took her time obeying. She mopped the tears away from her face with the backs of her hands and finally walked over to the side of the bed. She sat down, folded her hands in her lap, and bowed her head.

"Have you suddenly stopped loving me?"

He hadn't been able to keep the worry out of his voice. She was so surprised by his question, she looked up at him. "No, of course I haven't stopped loving you."

He nodded, both pleased and relieved to hear her fervent answer. Then he straightened away from the desk and walked over to stand in front of her.

"There isn't any Uncle Albert, is there?"

The switch in topic confused her. "What does Albert have to do with my request to go home?"

"Damn it, this is your home," he countered.

She lowered her head again. He immediately regretted the burst of anger and took a breath to calm himself. "Bear with me for just a moment, Alesandra, and answer my question."

She debated telling him the truth for a long minute. "No, there isn't any Uncle Albert."

"I didn't think so."

"Why didn't you think so?"

"There were never any letters delivered here from the man, yet I heard you tell Caine you'd received a missive. You made him up, and I think I know why."

"I really don't wish to talk about this. I find I'm weary tonight. It's quite late, almost ten."

He wasn't about to let her run away from this discussion. "You had a four-hour nap today," he reminded her.

"I was catching up on my sleep," she announced.

"Dreyson wouldn't take stock orders from a woman, would he? So you invented Albert, a convenient recluse who just happened to have your same initials."

She wasn't going to argue with him. "Yes."

He nodded again. He clasped his hands behind his back and frowned down at her. "You hide your intelligence, don't you, Alesandra? You obviously have a knack for the market, but instead of boasting about your cleverness with investments, you invented another man to take the credit."

She looked up at him so he could see her frown. "Men listen to other men," she announced. "It isn't acceptable for a woman to have such interests. It isn't considered ladylike. And it isn't a knack, Colin. I read the journals and listen to Dreyson's suggestions. It doesn't take a brilliant mind to be guided by his advice."

"Will you agree you're at least fairly intelligent and can reason most things through logically?"

She wondered where in heaven's name this discussion was leading. Her husband was acting terribly uncomfortable. She couldn't imagine why.

"Yes," she answered. "I will agree I'm fairly intelligent."

"Then why in God's name haven't you been able to reason through all the obvious facts and figure out that I love you?"

Her eyes widened and she leaned back. She opened her mouth to say something to him, but she couldn't remember what it was.

"I love you, Alesandra."

It had been difficult telling her what was in his heart, yet once the words were spoken, he felt incredibly free. He smiled at his wife and said the words again.

She bounded off the bed and frowned up at him. "You do not love me," she announced.

"I sure as hell do," he argued. "If you would apply a little reason…"

"I did use reason," she interrupted. "And came to the opposite conclusion."

"Sweetheart…"

"Don't you dare'sweetheart' me," she cried out.

Colin reached for her but she eluded him by sitting down again. "Oh, I reasoned it through and through and through. Shall I tell you my conclusions?"

She didn't give him time to answer her. "You have turned your back on everything I had to give you. It would be illogical for me to assume you love me."

"I've what?" he asked, stunned by the vehemence in her voice. "You've rejected everything," she whispered.

"Exactly what have I rejected?"

"My title, my position, my castle, my inheritance-even my help with your company."

He finally understood. He pulled her to her feet and wrapped his arms around her. She tried to push herself away from him. They fell onto the bed. Colin protected her from his weight as he stretched out on top of her. He pinned the lower part of her body with his thighs and braced himself on his elbows so he could look down at her.

Her hair spilled out on the pillows and her eyes, cloudy with unshed tears, made her appear more vulnerable to him. Dear God, she was beautiful-even when she was glaring at him. "I love you, Alesandra," he whispered. "And I have taken everything you had to give me."

She started to protest. He wouldn't let her. He clamped his hand over her mouth so she couldn't interrupt him. "I rejected nothing of value. You offered me all a man could ever want. You gave me your love, your trust, your loyalty, your mind, your heart, and your body. None of those offerings is material, sweetheart, and if you lost all the financial trappings that came along with you, it wouldn't matter to me. You're all I have ever wanted. Now do you understand?"

She was overwhelmed by his beautiful words. His eyes were actually misty, and she knew then that it had been difficult for him to tell her how he felt. Colin did love her. She was so filled with joy, she burst into tears.

"Love, don't cry," he pleaded. "It's very upsetting for me to see you so miserable."

She tried to stop crying long enough to explain she wasn't miserable at all. Colin moved his hand away from her mouth and gently wiped her tears away.

"I didn't have anything to give you when I married you," he told her. "And yet… on our wedding night I knew you loved me. I had trouble accepting it at first. It seemed so damned unfair to you. I should have remembered a comment you made to me about the prince regent. That reminder would have saved both of us a good deal of worry."

"What comment did I make?"

"I told you I'd heard the prince regent was taken with you," he answered. "Do you remember what you said to me then?"

She did remember. "I told you he was taken with what I am, not who I am."

"Well?" he demanded in a rough whisper.

"Well, what?"

Her smile was radiant. She finally understood.

"I thought you were fairly intelligent," he drawled out.

"You love me."

"Yes."

He leaned down and kissed her. She sighed into his mouth. When he pulled away, she looked properly convinced.

"Have you also worked it out in your mind?" she asked.

He didn't understand what she meant by her question. He was busy unbuttoning the top of her gown. "Worked out what?"

"That I fell in love with who you are, not what you are," she answered. "It was your strength and courage that drew me to you, Colin. I needed both."

He was so pleased with his wife he had to kiss her again. "I needed you," he admitted.

He wanted to kiss her again. She wanted to talk. "Colin, you present yourself to the world as a man struggling to build a company."

"I am a man struggling to build a company."

He rolled to his side so he could get her robe and gown off her more quickly.

"You aren't a pauper," she announced. She sat up in bed and started tugging her robe off her shoulders. Colin helped her.

"I had a good look at your books, remember? You've made an amazing profit, but you poured every bit of it back into the operation and the result is very impressive. You've been trying to build an empire, but if you'll only step back and take a good look you'll realize you've already accomplished your goal. Why, you have close to twenty ships now with cargo orders stretching into next year and that must surely convince you that your company is no longer a struggling venture."

He was having trouble listening to what she was telling him. She'd shed her robe and was now inching her gown up over her head. His throat tightened up on him. She finally got rid of the barrier. He immediately reached for her. She shook her head at him. "First, I would like you to answer a question for me, please."

He might have nodded but he couldn't be certain. A fire burned inside him and all he wanted to do was bury himself in her. He was so damn anxious to touch her, he was literally destroying his shirt in his hurry to get the thing off.

"Colin, when is enough enough?"

Her question required concentration. He didn't have any to spare.

"I'll never be able to get enough of you."

"Nor I you," she whispered. "But that isn't what I was asking…"

Colin silenced her with his mouth. She couldn't resist him a moment longer. She wrapped her arms around his neck and gave in to the wonder of his passion… and his love.

He was demanding, yet incredibly gentle with her at the same time. His touch was magical, and while she was in the throes of her own blissful surrender, he told her again and again how much he loved her.

She would have told him she loved him, too, but Colin had worn her out and she couldn't find the strength to speak. She rolled onto her back, closed her eyes, and listened to her pounding heartbeat while the air cooled her feverish skin.

He rolled to his side, propped his head up on his hand, and grinned down at her. He looked thoroughly satisfied.

He stroked a path from her chin to her belly, and then his hand gently rubbed the flat of her stomach.

"Sweetheart, do you have something you want to tell me?"

She was feeling too content to think about anything other than what had just happened to her.

Colin was going to nag her until she told him about the baby, but Flannaghan started banging on the bedroom door then, interrupting that intention.

"Milord, your brother's here. I put him in the study."

"I'll be right there," Colin shouted.

He muttered about his brother's bad timing. Alesandra laughed. She didn't bother to open her eyes when she said, "It would have been bad timing ten minutes ago. I would say he was being very considerate."

He agreed with that assessment. He started to leave the bed, then turned back to her. She opened her eyes just in time to watch him lean over her and place a kiss on her navel. She brushed her hand across his shoulder. The hair on the back of his neck curled around her fingers.

Colin was letting his hair grow long again. That sudden realization hit her all at once. She was so pleased she almost started crying again. She didn't, of course, because Colin had told her he found it upsetting to see her weep, and she doubted he would understand anyway. She understood, though, and that was all that mattered. Marriage hadn't turned out to be a prison for her husband.

He was puzzled by the look on her face. "Sweetheart?" he asked.

"You're still free, Colin."

His eyes widened over that remark. "You say the strangest things," he remarked.

"Your brother's waiting."

He nodded. "I want you to think about my question while I talk to Caine. All right, love?"

"What question?"

Colin got out of bed and pulled his pants on. "I asked you if you had anything else to tell me," he reminded her.

He slipped his bare feet into his shoes and started toward his bedroom in search of a fresh shirt. He'd shredded the one he'd been wearing.

"Think about it," he told her. He grabbed his jacket, winked at her, and then left the room.

Caine was sprawled out in the leather chair next to the hearth. Colin nodded and sat down behind his desk. He reached for his pen and paper.

Caine took one look at his brother and broke into a wide grin. "I see I interrupted you. Sorry," he added.

Colin ignored the laughter in his brother's voice. He knew he looked disheveled. He hadn't bothered with a cravat. He hadn't bothered to comb his hair, either.

"Marriage agrees with you, Colin."

Colin didn't pretend indifference. He looked up at his brother and let him see the truth in his expression. The shields were gone.

"I'm a man in love."

Caine laughed. "It took you long enough to realize it."

"No longer than it took you to realize you loved Jade."

Caine agreed with a nod. Colin went back to writing on his paper.

"What are you doing?"

Colin's grin was a bit sheepish when he admitted he was starting a list.

"I seem to have caught my wife's obsession for organization," he said. "Did you talk to the viscount?"

Caine's smile faded. He loosened his cravat while he answered. "Harold's a mess," he said, referring to the viscount. "He's barely coherent. The last time he saw his wife they had an argument and he has spent every minute since tormenting himself over the harsh words he said to her. His anguish is aching to see."

"The poor devil," Colin said. He shook his head, then asked, "Did he tell you what the argument was about?"

"He was certain she'd taken a lover," Caine answered. "She was receiving gifts and Harold jumped to the conclusion she was involved with another man."

"Hell."

"He still hasn't figured it out, Colin. I told him about the gifts our wives received but he was too sotted from drink to understand the ramifications. He kept saying his anger swayed Roberta into running away with her lover."

Colin leaned back in his chair. "Did he have anything helpful to add?"

"No."

The brothers lapsed into silence, each caught up in his own thoughts. Colin pushed his chair back and bent over to take his shoes off. He tossed off his left shoe, then his right, and was about to straighten up again when he noticed the lining protruding from his left shoe.

"Damn," he muttered to himself. His most comfortable pair of shoes were already wearing out. He picked up the shoe to see if it could be repaired. The thick insert fell into his hands.

He'd never seen anything like it. He immediately picked up the other shoe and examined it. Flannaghan chose that moment to walk into the study with a fresh decanter of brandy so that Caine could have a drink if he was so inclined. He took one look at what Colin was holding in his hand and immediately turned around to leave.

"Come back here, Flannaghan," Colin ordered.

"Did you wish a drink, milord?" Flannaghan asked Caine.

"Yes," Caine answered. "But I want water, not brandy. After seeing Harold tonight, the thought of a hard drink turns my stomach."

"I shall fetch the water at once."

Flannaghan tried to leave again. Colin called him back.

"Did you wish some water?" the butler asked his employer.

Colin held up the insert. "I wish to find out if you know anything about this."

Flannaghan was torn between his loyalties. He was Colin's servant, of course, and was certainly loyal to him, but he had also promised his princess not to say a word about the bootmaker.

Flannaghan's silence was a bit damning. Caine started laughing. "From the look on his face, I would say he knows a great deal about something. What are you holding, Colin?"

He tossed the leather insert to Caine. "I just found this hidden under the lining of my shoe. It's been specifically made for the left foot."

He turned his gaze back to his butler. "Alesandra's behind this, isn't she?"

Flannaghan cleared his throat. "They have become your favorite shoes, milord," he hastened to point out. "The insert made your shoe fit your heel much better. I pray you won't become too angry over this."

Colin wasn't at all angry, but his butler was too young and too caught up in his worry to realize that fact.

"Our princess realizes that you are a bit… sensitive about your leg," Flannaghan continued, "and for that reason she did resort to a little trickery. I do hope you won't berate her."

Colin smiled. Flannaghan's defense of Alesandra was pleasing to him. "Will you ask 'our princess' to come in here? Knock softly on her door, Flannaghan, and if she doesn't immediately answer, assume she's asleep."

Flannaghan hurried out of the study. He realized he was still holding the decanter in his hands and quickly turned back to the study. He put the brandy on the side table and once again left.

Caine tossed the insert back to his brother. "Does the contraption work?"

"Yes," Colin answered. "I didn't realize…"

Caine saw the vulnerability in his brother's eyes and was amazed. It wasn't like Colin to let anyone see beyond the smile. He suddenly felt closer to his brother, and all because Colin wasn't shutting him out. He leaned forward in his chair, his elbows braced on his knees.

"What didn't you realize?"

Colin stared at the thick heel of the insert when he answered. "That my left leg was shorter than my right. It makes sense. The loss of muscle…"

He forced a shrug. Caine didn't know what to say to him. This was the first time Colin had acknowledged his condition and Caine wasn't certain how to proceed. If he sounded too nonchalant, his brother might assume he didn't care. Yet if he sounded too earnest and prodded him with questions, Colin might slam the door on the subject for another five years.

It was damned awkward. And in the end he didn't say anything. He changed the topic. "Have you talked to Father about Catherine yet?"

"Yes," Colin answered. "He promises to be on his guard. He's alerted his staff, too. If anything else is delivered, Father will see it first."

"Is he going to warn Catherine?"

"He didn't want to worry her," Colin replied. "I insisted. She needs to understand this is a serious matter. Catherine's a bit… flighty, isn't she?"

Caine smiled. "She isn't completely grown up yet, Colin. Give her time."

"And protect her until she does grow up."

"Yes."

Alesandra appeared in the doorway with Flannaghan at her side. She wore a dark blue robe that covered her from chin to slippers. She walked inside the study, smiled at Caine, and then turned to her husband. Colin held up the insert for her to see. She immediately lost her smile and started backing out of the room.

She didn't look frightened, just wary. "Alesandra, do you know something about this?"

She couldn't tell from his expression if he was angry or merely irritated with her. She reminded herself that her husband had vowed his love for her just minutes before and took a step forward. "Yes."

"Yes, what?"

"Yes, I know something about the insert. Good evening, Caine. It's good to see you again," she added in a rush.

She was deliberately being obtuse. Colin shook his head at her. "I asked you a question, wife," he said.

"Now I understand your question," she blurted out. She took another step forward. "Just before you left my chamber you asked me if I had something to tell you and now I realize you'd found the insert. All right, then. I'll tell you. I interfered. Yes, I did. I had your best interests at heart, Colin. I'm sorry you're so prickly about your leg, and if you weren't, I could have discussed my idea with you before sending Flannaghan to the bootmaker. I had to force your man to take on the assignment. He's most loyal to you," she hastened to add lest he think Flannaghan had somehow betrayed him.

"No, Princess," Flannaghan argued. "I begged you to let me take on the assignment."

Colin rolled his eyes heavenward. "What made you think of the idea?" he asked.

She looked surprised by his question. "You have a limp… at night, when you're tired, you do tend to limp a little. Colin, you are aware you favor your right leg, aren't you?"

He almost laughed. "Yes, I'm aware."

"Do you agree you're a fairly intelligent man?"

She was turning his words back on him. He held his frown. "Yes."

"Then why didn't you try to reason why you were limping?"

He lifted his shoulders in a shrug. "A shark took a bite out of my leg. Call me daft, Alesandra, but I assumed that was the reason I limped."

She shook her head. "That was the reason for the injury," she explained. "I looked at the bottoms of your shoes. The left heel was barely worn on each pair. Then, of course, I knew what to do." She let out a sigh. "I do wish you weren't so sensitive about this issue."

She turned to look at Caine. "He is sensitive, though. Have you, by chance, noticed?"

Caine nodded.

She smiled because she'd gained his agreement. "He won't even talk about it."

"He's talking about it now," Caine told her.

She whirled around to look at her husband. "You are talking about it," she cried out.

She looked thrilled. Colin didn't know what to make of that. "Yes," he agreed.

"Then will you let me sleep in your bed every night?"

Caine laughed. Alesandra ignored him. "I know why you go back to your room. It's because your leg hurts and you need to walk. I'm right, aren't I, Colin?"

He didn't answer her.

"Will you please say something?"

"Thank you."

She was thoroughly confused. "Why are you thanking me?"

"For the insert."

"You aren't angry?"

"No."

She was astonished by his attitude.

He was humbled by her thoughtfulness.

They stared at each other a long minute.

"You aren't angry with Flannaghan, are you?" she asked.

"No."

"Why aren't you angry with me?"

"Because you had my best interests at heart."

"What a nice thing to say."

Colin laughed. She smiled. Flannaghan came running into the study and thrust a glass of water at Caine. His attention was centered on Alesandra. She saw his worried expression and whispered, "He isn't angry."

Caine drew her attention when he announced he was going home. Colin didn't take his gaze off his wife when he bid his brother good night.

"Alesandra, stay here. Flannaghan will see Caine out."

"As you wish, husband."

"God, I love it when you're humble."

"Why?"

"It's so damned rare."

She shrugged. He laughed again. "Is there something else you wanted to tell me?" he asked.

Her shoulders slumped. The man was too cunning by half. "Oh, all right," she muttered. "I talked to Sir Winters about your leg to gain suggestions. We spoke in confidence, of course."

Colin raised an eyebrow. "Suggestions for what?"

"For ways to make it feel better. I made a list of his ideas. Would you like me to fetch it for you?"

"Later," he answered. "Now, then, is there something else you wanted to tell me?"

The question covered a broad range of topics. Colin decided he'd have to remember to ask her that question every other week in future so that he could find out what she'd been up to.

She wasn't about to blurt out another confession until she knew what he was fishing for. "Could you be more specific please?"

Her question told him there were still more secrets. "No," he answered. "You know what I'm asking. Tell me."

She threaded her fingers through her hair and walked over to the side of his desk. "Dreyson told you, didn't he?"

He shook his head. "Then how did you find out?"

"I'll explain how I found out after you tell me," he promised.

"You already know," she countered. "You just want to make me feel guilty, don't you? Well, it won't wash. I didn't cancel the order for the steam vessel and it's too late for you to interfere. Besides, you told me I could do whatever I wanted with my inheritance. I ordered the ship for myself. Yes, I did. I've always wanted one. If, however, you and Nathan would like to use my ship every now and again, I would be happy to share it with you."

"I told Dreyson to cancel the order," he reminded her.

"I told him Albert had decided he wanted it."

"What the hell else have you kept from me?"

"You didn't know?"

"Alesandra…"

"You're pricking my temper, Colin. You still don't understand how much you hurt me," she announced. "Can you imagine how I felt when I heard Nathan say that he and you were all set to use Sara's inheritance to build the company? You made such an issue out of turning your back on my inheritance."

Colin pulled her onto his lap. She immediately put her arms around his neck and smiled at him.

He frowned at her. "The money was put aside by the king for both Nathan and Sara," he explained.

"My father put his money away for me and my husband."

She had him there, he thought to himself. She knew it, too. "Your father wonders why he's still in charge of my funds, Colin. It's embarrassing. You should take over the task. I would help."

His smile was filled with tenderness. "How about if I helped you manage it?"

"That would be nice." She leaned against him. "I love you, Colin."

"I love you, too. Sweetheart, isn't there something else you want to tell me?"

She didn't answer him. Colin reached into his pocket and pulled out her list. She snuggled closer to him.

He opened the paper. "I want you to be able to talk to me about anything," he explained. "From this moment on."

She started to pull away from him but he tightened his hold on her. "I made it impossible for you to talk about my leg, didn't I?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry about that, sweetheart. Now stay still while I answer your questions for you, all right?"

"I don't have any questions?"

"Hush, love," he ordered. He held her close with one hand and lifted the sheet of paper with the other. He silently read her first order and then said, "I have listened to your concerns about Victoria, haven't I?"

"Yes, but why…"

Colin squeezed her. "Be patient," he commanded. He read the second order. "I will promise to soften in my attitude toward your inheritance." In brackets Alesandra had written the word stubborn. He let out a sigh. "And I won't be mule-headed about it."

The third order made him smile. She had instructed him not to wait five years to realize he loved her.

Since he'd already complied with that command, he moved on to the next order. He should try to be happy he was going to become a father and he shouldn't blame her because she was interfering with his schedule.

Could pregnant wives become nuns? Colin decided to answer the last first.

"Alesandra?"

"Yes?"

He kissed the top of her head. "No," he whispered.

The laughter in his voice confused her. So did his denial. "No, what, husband?"

"Pregnant wives can't become nuns."

She would have jumped off his lap if he'd let her. He held her tight against him until she finally calmed down.

She did a lot of ranting and raving, too. "You knew… all the time… Oh, God, it was the list. You found it and that's why you told me you loved me."

Colin forced her chin up and kissed her hard. "I knew I loved you before I read your list," he told her. "You're going to have to trust me, Alesandra. Trust your heart, too."

"But…"

His mouth silenced her protest. When he pulled back, she had tears in her eyes. "I'm going to ask you one last time," he said. "Do you have something to tell me?"

She slowly nodded. He looked so arrogantly pleased. Dear God, how she loved him. From the way he was looking at her, she knew he loved her just as much.

Oh, yes, he was happy about the baby. She didn't have any worries about that. His hand had dropped to her stomach and he was gently patting her. She didn't think he was even aware of what he was doing. The action was telling, though. He was caressing his unborn son or daughter.

"Answer me," he commanded in a rough whisper.

He was looking so fiercely intent now. She smiled in reaction. Colin always tried to be so serious, so disciplined. She loved that trait in him, of course, but she found she delighted in making him forget himself every now and again.

She did love to tease him and all because he reacted with such surprise.

Colin couldn't hold on to his patience any longer. "Answer me, Alesandra."

"Yes, Colin. I do have something to tell you. I've decided to become a nun."

He looked like he wanted to throttle her. His glare made her laugh. She wrapped her arms around him again and tucked her head under his chin.

"We're going to have a baby," she whispered. "Have I mentioned that yet?"