Rina’s heart skipped a beat, pleased he did not wish to see any harm come to her. But her commitment to herself and to her people was far stronger than new and strange feelings for Blake. It saddened her she could not comply to make him happy. “I can’t do as you ask. So, please, do not ask again.”
She turned away from his scowl and walked out into the filtered sunlight, noticing for the first time a commotion at the house. A small garrison of soldiers gathered there and Rina knew they were the troops sent to stop her.
Blake silently came up behind her, and without another word, left. When Rina rode out on Blackstar, she knew he watched her. When she turned to look at Blake, her eyes, instead, met the intense gaze of the young officer standing next to him. Calm, she looked from one man to the other, her stare unwavering, and unafraid. She nudged Blackstar into a run, leaving the two men behind.
Blake didn’t turn his full attention to Lieutenant Greerson until Rina was completely out of sight. Once he did, the admiring twinkle in the other man’s eyes caused him to frown.
“Beautiful,” murmured the man, more to himself than Blake. When he caught the smoldering look of disapproval, he cautiously added, “The horse — what a magnificent animal.”
An amused look replaced Blake’s scalding one. The man’s apparent discomfort was obvious. “Yes,” he agreed, “a magnificent animal. Now, Lieutenant Greerson, what can I do for you?”
“As I’m sure you know I have been sent by the King to apprehend the band of highwaymen running rampant in this area. It was Sir Lawrence Langsford of Camray who petitioned the King for military reinforcement to help solve this problem. I have already spoken with him about the matter, and I wondered if I might question you and your brother as well. I was told you were among those who have been robbed.”
“I’d be pleased to answer any questions you may have. Shall we go inside?”
After they were seated comfortably and Ryon joined them, the lieutenant began.
“Sir Langsford informed me this renegade band consists of four men and one woman, a Frenchwoman who is apparently their leader.”
“Yes, and a charming woman, indeed,” Ryon said.
“That seems an odd comment, sir. What makes this woman so charming?” Greerson inquired, his curiosity roused.
“Well, for one thing, she was courteous. She asked the ladies to contribute only one item, the choice left to them. Obviously, she could have taken everything, but didn’t. The Angel in Black made you think you were making a donation to charity, rather than being robbed.”
“The Angel in Black?”
“Yes, lieutenant, the people here named her the Angel in Black. It seems she gives away what she steals — she is their savior, a female Robin Hood of sort.”
Blake watched the officer’s reactions, finding it difficult to remain calm and quiet knowing the threat this man presented.
“Yes … interesting.” Greerson mulled this over before speaking again. “According to Sir Langsford, this so-called Angel in Black is dangerous. Do you agree, Lord Roberts?”
The question was directed at Blake, who had said nothing so far. The lieutenant’s sharp green eyes studied him, and the man awaited his answer. “No, I don’t believe they are dangerous. My impression from our encounter was that they aren’t killers. As long as no one acts foolishly, there should be no violence.”
Again, Greerson considered Blake’s answer before voicing his next thought. “You said the people here about think of this woman as a heroine. I suppose it will be futile to expect any help from them.”
“No doubt,” agreed Ryon.
Greerson stood. “I am anxious to meet my opponent. I would like study the band’s movements and habits before I consider setting a trap for them.”
“Well,” Blake said, rising as well. “I’m certain if you frequent any dinner parties or social affairs in the area, you will get your chance, lieutenant.”
“No doubt, but I would like to think I can count on you, should the need arise, Lord Roberts.” Extending his hand to Blake, then Ryon, he moved to leave. “I’m sure we will see each other again.”
“Until then.”
From the window Blake watched the lieutenant mount his horse and leave with his men.
Ryon stood by his brother, sensing his troubled mood. “I don’t think he will catch her, Blake. What do you think?”
“I pray he doesn’t, Ryon.”
Blake’s answer was filled with so much anguish it shocked the younger man. Confused, he wondered about Blake’s reaction. A strange and sudden thought occurred to him and he asked, “You know who she is, don’t you?”
The question brought Blake’s attention back to Ryon, surprise for the briefest second on his face. “No, of course not,” he said.
Unconvinced, Ryon said, “I don’t believe you, brother, but I’ll leave it be for now. I’m going upstairs to change.”
After Ryon left the room, Blake poured himself a brandy, his mind still on the lieutenant’s mission. The rustling of skirts brought Blake from his thoughts and he turned to see his sister-in-law enter. Rebecca’s smile always brought sunshine to a room, and he smelled the delicate fragrance of lilacs.
“Oh, Blake, how is Rina? I hope Lady Ramsey didn’t hurt her badly.” Concern filled Rebecca’s eyes as she sat on the sofa near where Blake stood.
“She’ll be fine, Rebecca. It would take more than a whip to hurt Rina.”
“Thank goodness. You know, sometimes Lady Ramsey makes me so angry. She has no consideration for anyone or anything. I’m beginning to wish I hadn’t accepted the invitation to her dinner party tomorrow night.”
“We don’t have to go, you know. I’m not sure I can take her overbearing presence again.”
A dismayed expression crossed Rebecca’s features as she considered the idea. “No, we accepted and we must go.”
“You’re always one for doing what’s proper and expected. All right, we shall not be rude and cause any undue gossip.” Blake smiled warmly at Rebecca and relief flooded her face.
“Thank you, Blake. Do you think we will be robbed again?”
“Perhaps,” he replied honestly. “Are you afraid?”
“No, I don’t think so. As a matter of fact, it is rather exciting. I just don’t want anyone to get hurt.”
Blake understood her unspoken meaning. “I assure you, I have no intention of trying any heroics.”
“I’m so glad.” Patting his arm affectionately, Rebecca started to leave, but paused. “Ryon and I have been discussing hosting a dance, and we thought it would be nice to have it Christmas Eve. What do you think?”
“It has been years since we’ve held a dance here. Whatever you want is fine with me.”
Blake laughed as Rebecca’s eyes lit up at the prospect of a ball. She hugged him and flew up the stairs to find her husband and tell him her news. Blake watched Rebecca in her excitement and decided it was nice having a woman at Windsong.
BLAKE SAT ACROSS THE table from Lieutenant Greerson, his manner tense as he nervously glanced about. The officer’s men were positioned around the estate, hoping the Angel would show up. The evening grew endless, each minute agony as his worries weighed on his mind. It didn’t help he had to put up with Catherine Ramsey’s incessant small talk. She played at being extra-sweet tonight, trying to make Blake forget her temperamental behavior the day before.
The dinner over, Blake sought refuge from the crowded, noisy room. He walked out onto the veranda, the fresh air clearing his mind. The night was dark, a new moon casting no light from the meager sliver it presented. Blake stared into the darkness, his mind filled with thoughts of Rina — always thoughts of Rina. She was so damn stubborn, but, God, she was spirited and beautiful. Only in her dreams did she fear anyone or anything.
Rina possessed a strength he had never seen in a woman, not only physically, but mentally as well. And, he had witnessed the justice her tiny, yet capable hands could mete out. Now she rode through the countryside, reaping ha
voc on the aristocrats, and giving hope to the poor. What had she said? “Dying is easy. For the poor, it’s the living that is difficult.” What had happened to his golden girl? What caused her to treat death so casually, without fear, without caution?
“Blake, darling. What are you doing out here?”
Catherine’s voice shattered Blake’s thoughts. He winced in aggravation before turning to face her. “I stepped out for some fresh air, Lady Ramsey.”
She stepped close to Blake, and leaned enticingly toward him, revealing the low décolletage of her gown. Her breasts brushed against him, her eyes dark with anticipation. Blake found it amusing, for the moment, and made no attempt to stop her.
“I’m glad you decided to come tonight. I would have been terribly disappointed if you hadn’t.”
“Then you must thank Rebecca. I am only here at her urging.”
Catherine drew in a deep breath, his comment not to her liking. “You shouldn’t tease, Blake. It is hard to control my temper when it comes to your blunt manner.”
“I noticed.” Blake’s voice was hard, his eyes unfeeling.
“Again, you tease.” Lady Ramsey smiled, determined not to lose her temper again. “You know I’m attracted to you, Blake. I think we would be wonderful together.” She entwined her arms around Blake’s neck and stood on her toes to pull his lips to her own. She kissed him deeply before Blake managed to pull her off him. This game was turning distasteful.
“You could stay with me tonight, darling.”
Stepping back from her smothering affections, Blake’s cold eyes showed none of the emotions Catherine felt. “No, Lady Ramsey. I have other plans for later. And they do not include you.”
“Why, you bastard — I suppose you will be occupied with that little trollup I ran into yesterday. Really, Blake, do you enjoy sleeping with peasant trash so much?”
As soon as her jealous words slipped out, Catherine knew she had gone too far. His angry golden eyes sent a shiver down her spine, and the flexing jaw muscle made her tremble in fear.
“I really hate to disturb your little spat, Madame, but your presence is required inside.”
Both turned to face the Angel in Black. Catherine’s eyes widened when she saw the pistol aimed directly at them.
“S’il vous plait, I do not have all night, monsieur.”
Blake thought he heard a note of pain in her icy voice.
Catherine’s feet turned to lead and Blake had to guide her into the drawing room like a child. Everyone else was already gathered inside with the Angel’s four men standing guard.
Rina glanced at Blake, her eyes angry and hurt. But when she turned to Lady Ramsey, they were carefully masked. “Now that we are all present, shall we begin with our donations tonight? Madame Ramsey, since this is your party, shall we begin with you?”
Biting her lip, Catherine pulled off a ring and reluctantly dropped it into the bag. “Ah, Madame,” she could not resist taunting the woman, “I see you have learned to curb your tongue, n’est-ce pas? Tres bien.”
Rina turned to Blake. He dropped his money into the bag and his pocket watch went after it. His lips were a thin line, his eyes stating what he could not say.
“So, we meet again, monsieur. You do seem to frequent these boring affairs often.”
“I was hoping you might decide to come. I was most anxious to see you again.” His words were amusing and light, but his gaze remained cold and hard.
“What a charmer you are.” Rina retreated from his chilling look and casually sauntered over to the handsome lieutenant. “I don’t believe we have had the pleasure.”
Greerson stood straight, his look intense as he watched Rina. Unexpectedly, he bowed graciously. “Lieutenant David Greerson, mademoiselle. I assure you, the pleasure is mine.”
“So — you are the soldier sent to stop me and my men. I’m flattered, but I hope you will not be disappointed if you fail.” Rina’s flashed him a dazzling smile as her men finished with the collections. “And lieutenant, do not be harsh with your men — we came in very quietly. Now, what do you wish to donate this evening?”
“I’m afraid I didn’t bring any coin with me and I wear no jewelry.”
The Angel grinned and said, “You are a wise man, one never knows when they may be robbed … does one?”
Her humor was not lost on the young man and he could not help but smile at her candor. The Angel’s eyes turned serious and she reached out a gloved finger and flicked at the watch chain showing from the pocket on his vest. “Ah, but you do have a handsome watch, monsieur, and I think it would do fine.”
His smile disappeared. The lieutenant pulled the expensive gold piece from his pocket and Rina noticed sadness mingled with the anger in his eyes.
“Now, I’m sure you will forgive me if I leave before the party is over, but I must be going. ’Till we meet again, Lieutenant David Greerson.”
“It may be sooner than you think, Angel,” he challenged.
“I shall count the minutes. Adieu.”
Quick and silent, the bandits slipped from the room, with Rina the last to leave. She met Blake’s furious look, then disappeared. The lieutenant was the first to move to the door, Blake right behind him. Greerson shouted for his men and ran for his horse. Blake moved to where he had Hera tied and turned to Greerson.
“I’m going with you.”
The group hurriedly rode after the Angel and her gang. Rina and her men rode hard until they reached the outskirts of the forest, then split up, each taking a different route. With no moon and the misting fog, the way was dark and dangerous. The lieutenant and his soldiers did not know the area; they would find it difficult to follow.
Rina flew over the rough terrain, the way familiar, with Blake and the lieutenant in pursuit. The trees whipped past her, her horse tearing through the thick forest. Her heart pounded in her chest, excitement and exhilaration coursing through her veins. She felt warm, despite the cold night air.
She continued on, pushing her mount to his limits, the noise of his racing hooves making it impossible to hear if others followed, though instinct told her they did, and were not far behind. The surrounding scenery flew by swiftly, and in no time Rina came to the hidden pond and waterfall. If someone was chasing her, she could easily slip though the secret entrance and hide within.
Stopping, she walked her mount into the dark shadows of the trees and turned to watch, finally hearing two riders approach. In the distance she saw the flash of gray and knew Blake was one of them. She assumed the other was the lieutenant. She turned to disappear behind the brush and Rina heard a horse stumble, throwing its rider to the ground. The animal’s cry of pain echoed in the still night air. Rina stood frozen and fear gripped her with its steely hand. Weak and shaking, she turned her horse to peer into the darkness, desperately searching for the two men and their horses. Holding her breath, Rina finally spotted Hera and heard Blake call to Lieutenant Greerson, “Are you all right?”
“Yes, I’m fine, Lord Roberts. My horse tripped and threw me. I think his leg is hurt.”
Rina watched the two men examine the horse. The lieutenant said, “It looks like a bad sprain. I’m afraid I must go back. We’ve lost her anyway.”
Relief flooded Rina, the man’s disappointment clear, having to give up pursuit not sitting well with him. Blake replied; his voice subtly strained to her ears. “You go ahead. I want to look around a minute. I’ll catch up with you.”
Dismayed, the lieutenant started back on foot to see if his men had any better luck. Rina entered the hidden refuge and dismounted. Her hands still shook from shock, when she thought Blake had been hurt.
“Rina, are you all right?”
Startled, she spun around and found herself facing Blake’s angry countenance. He gripped her shoulders and shook her. “I asked you a question.” His voice grew frantic.
“Yes,” Rina retorted. “I’d be better if you would unhand me.”
Blake let her go and pulled the mask and scarf from he
r head. Her hair tumbled down around her shoulders, the paleness shimmering in the dark night. He twisted a handful of soft, golden tresses around his hand and pulled her head back to see into her eyes.
Angry, she glared at him. “Let me go,” Rina hissed.
“Do you enjoy putting me through hell, little one?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Yes you do. Every time you decide to ride out as this Angel in Black, you make me suffer. Damn you, woman. I can’t bear the thought of you being in constant danger.” His hold on her hair tightened, as he remembered the terror he felt for her only moments before.
“What I do is none of your affair.”
“Until I get you out of my blood it is.” Blake’s lips came down hard on Rina’s, demanding and brutal, not caring if he hurt her. His tongue invaded her mouth, searching and plundering its sweetness, his lips bruising her.
Blake’s kiss drew her will from her and Rina’s pulse quickened, her blood raced. Excitement, fear, danger, it all surged into a potent mixture, reeling out of control. Her arms wound about his neck, pulling him closer, her soft, slim form molded against his strong, lean frame. Finally, his hand let go of her hair and slid to the roundness of her bottom. Blake lifted Rina, pressed her against the hardness of his desire, spasms of pleasure surging through her.
Rina lost all control of reality. She knew only the tremendous desire and passion within.
“Oh, God, wench — you were made for me to love. Why must you torture me?”
“I do not wish to torture you, Blake.”
“I should take you now.”
Rina pulled away, trying to regain control of her rioting emotions. “No, Blake, I must go — please, I must go.”
“Yes, so must I, but mark my words, Rina. You will be mine, and soon.”
“You promised to wait until I came to you,” whispered Rina.
Angel in Black Page 13