by Sable Grey
"You don't want..."
"Don't even suggest that,” he muttered, his voice deep, and her lips lifted as he pulled her to his lap. “Of course I want it, but not from you, now; not like this. You don't owe me anything.” His arms wrapped around her, pulled her to him.
"Then what would you like?” She looked up at him.
"Thornton will have you tomorrow. Tonight, I am going to make love to you,” he said provocatively and felt her body tense, but he tightened his arms in case she meant to pull away from him.
"Don't,” he warned. “I'll hear no arguments from you tonight. Neither of us will conquer anyone. Tonight, we are just man and woman. You deserve that.” He turned and kissed her forehead gently.
"I don't understand.” She shook her head. His fingers slid lazily up the inside of her arm, leaving little goose bumps of excitement.
"You have sex like a man, Rafferty. Tonight you are a woman, and that is how I'm going to treat you."
Rafferty swallowed and leaned back slightly against his arms to stare at him. There was no teasing in his eyes, only a strange gentleness she'd not seen before. He lifted a hand and caressed her cheek.
"What does that mean?"
"It means be silent, and let me make you feel good.” He lowered his lips to her ear and brushed his lips against the lobe. “It means I will kiss every inch of you before we come together.” His warm breath brushed her skin, sending shivers over her. She'd never seen this side of Merrick Cole, and she wasn't sure what to make of it.
He turned his face into her hair and breathed in deeply before dropping a feathery kiss against her neck. “I don't like this,” she protested, and he chuckled as he loosened his arms and allowed her to stand.
"No,” he said when she started to finish unbuttoning the shirt. “Leave it on for now. I like seeing you in it. Take the rest off.” She rolled her eyes but did what he wanted.
"Shall I stand on my head now?” she asked sarcastically when he stood.
"Come here.” She stepped forward, but his arms were gentle when they slipped around her. “Tell me something, Rafferty. Tell me what you fear most."
Rafferty grew still, but Merrick began moving, side to side, steps turning them in slow circles. What was he doing? Did he mean to hurt her now? She started to pull away but his arms held her.
"I fear losing control. I've always been that way, since I was a boy,” Merrick said softly. “After my father was gone, I felt I had to be a man, to keep control of things."
"Why are you telling me this?” Rafferty wished he would just kiss her.
"Because that is what men and women do, Rafferty.” His lips kissed at her jaw. “There must be something you fear."
Rafferty did not answer as his kiss drifted to the corner of her mouth. She turned to kiss him, but he didn't let her. Instead, he ran his hand over her hip and across her stomach. Slowly, he freed the last buttons of her shirt and dipped his hand within to rest it upon her hip.
"I don't know what you want me to say."
"Tell me something you are afraid of.” He rubbed his cheek against hers. Rafferty couldn't explain the slow warmth that spread through her chest. She knew she didn't like it.
"I don't..."
"Please,” he murmured.
Rafferty frowned. “This does no good. It makes no sense. I want you in me."
Merrick sighed heavily. “Very well, Rafferty. Keep your secrets.” He ran his knuckles over her cheek.
"Will you kiss me now?” she demanded.
"I have been kissing you."
"You know what I mean.” She reached up and pulled him down to her so she could kiss his mouth. He didn't kiss her as he had before. His lips were gentle and tender. She started to pull away, but his hand slipped around her, beneath the shirt, and he pulled her closer.
She wanted to tell him that he need not be so gentle. She knew she wasn't like other women, but she realized, suddenly, she liked this. Caressing and soft kisses, the warmth that spread through her limbs. It didn't matter that he wasn't ravishing her until she couldn't breathe, as long as he continued to hold her. A lump formed in her throat as the truth hit her.
Oh no. She moaned. He released her lips, momentarily, to gaze down at her and what she saw in his eyes matched the feelings she realized she, too, was experiencing. She loved this man. For the first time in her life, she'd really fallen in love. And it was there in his eyes. He loved her too.
"I ... I can't do this.” She stepped back from his arms.
"Do what?"
"You are taking me to Thornton tomorrow. I only wanted...” She stopped and reached for her clothes. “It was just sex, Captain Cole. You are searching for something I can not give you.” She turned so he couldn't see the truth in her eyes. She had lived her life taking the things she wanted and dodging the consequences. It was different this time, and no matter how much she didn't like it, she loved him.
She could try to use him; twist those feelings he'd not hidden from her so that he would release her. But she wouldn't. She no longer wanted to manipulate him. She only wanted to spare him a broken heart.
"You are going to drive me to strangle you!” Merrick growled from behind her as she dressed. She didn't answer, and, moments later, he stormed from the cabin, slamming the door behind him.
Chapter 8
Rafferty made a sound of frustration when one of the men jumped to his feet, spotting her before she could get completely over the railing to the ropes of the net that would be the pathway to her freedom. He shouted, alerting the others as he bounded towards her, his hand grabbing her shoulder before she could climb out of his reach.
He hauled her up, and she whirled once on her feet. The heel of her hand connected to his nose and he went toppling backwards. She spun as the next neared, kicking her foot out and into his chest. It stopped him, so she swung with all of her might. She hit him in the throat, taking his breath. A hand grabbed her arm, but she brought her elbow back and into the man's throat.
Three more headed towards her. She charged the middle one, shoulder catching him in the stomach. When he grasped her shoulders, her own hands clutched his and she brought her forehead full force into his face.
As his hands fell away, the other two grabbed her, but she twisted and delivered a kick between one's legs. As he let go, she spun, pulling free from the third's grasp. He drew back his fist and swung, but she was quicker, grabbing his moving wrist with her left hand and rolling so she used her body to slam into his elbow. The bone snapped, and he howled.
But three more grabbed at her and she couldn't fight them all, so she finally gave up. Her gaze rested on Hogg as he made his way towards her. When he halted in front of her, he stretched his arm and the next moment, the back of his hand snapped her head to the side.
Her lip busted and blood ran down her chin. “You are more trouble than you are worth. Cole will not be happy about this.” He growled. “Turn her around.” The men turned her while Hogg bound her hands tightly.
"What do I care if he is happy or not? He is a pig who has no feelings,” she snapped over her shoulder, fighting the pain that moved in her chest as she spoke the words she did not mean. “He is to have me killed."
Hogg turned her around when her wrists were tied tightly. “He means to save your neck. He is speaking with Thornton at this very moment on your behalf."
Rafferty stared at the man. “Why would he do that?"
"The same reason you've got tears in your eyes right now, though you refuse to shed them,” Hogg snapped and her gaze hardened. “He is doing what he can."
"If he meant to save me, he could have just let me go,” Rafferty argued.
"You are either very stupid or very stupid.” Hogg lowered voice. “Cole works for Thornton but do you think he would be sent out without someone else of Thornton's coming along? Thornton has men everywhere. How do you think we found you? One of Thornton's men was sent to apprehend you and keep you at that inn until we arrived."
Rafferty fro
wned. “You can't mean the man in my room at the..."
"The very one. Thornton has been after you for years. He took the time to learn your every move. He found a man to fit your tastes and sent him to keep you occupied.” Hogg's hand tightened on her shoulder. “Merrick Cole can get the job done, but Thornton always has a plan in case the first falls through."
"You?” Rafferty's eyes widened. “You were sent to make sure that Merrick brought me here."
"I was sent to make sure you were delivered.” Hogg's mouth slanted. He gave her a jerk towards the stairs that led below.
"Thornton will not listen to anything Merrick tells him anyway,” Rafferty sighed as she moved down the stairs without resistance. “He has been after me for too many years."
"Now you stay put.” Hogg pushed her into Cole's cabin and pulled the door closed. He turned the key and stepped away.
* * * *
Merrick stood waiting for John Thornton to see him. He moved across the foyer to look out the window, his gaze sweeping those that bustled about the streets. Couples, families, some only lovers. He watched them.
Rafferty Jones would never know a life like that. Neither would he. She had contaminated him. He would never be content with his life again. The wealth he had worked for was nothing for him to be proud of if he could not save this woman from death. She was innocent of the crime of which she was accused and guilty of making her way in the only kind of life she was given. That was no crime. He, himself, would have done the same.
Her life had made her tough, stronger than women should be. She gained weapons any way she could and used them. Her wit was keen, and, even in the face of impending death, she would not be defeated.
"Cole.” Thornton's voice interrupted his thoughts, pulling his attention from the window and to the graying man who stood in the door. “You have returned. Come in.” Thornton stepped aside and waited while Merrick strode forward into his parlor.
Thornton closed the door soundly and indicated towards the bottle of brandy, but Merrick shook his head. Quietly, Thornton poured himself a drink.
"I'm told you have succeeded in the capture of our little jewel?” He spoke over his shoulder before facing the captain.
"I told you that I would."
"Then where is she? I wish to see her myself."
"She remains in my custody. I wanted to speak with you about her before I delivered her to you.” Merrick saw Thornton's shoulders stiffen. Thornton wasn't the kind of man who liked to sit and speak. He'd rather just have his command followed and receive results quickly.
"Speak?"
"Only for a moment.” Merrick told him and Thornton inclined his head.
"You and I have had little chance to sit. We are both busy men, but I can spare time when it is needed.” Thornton lifted his drink to his lips and took a swallow. “What would you speak to me about?"
"She is innocent."
Thornton's gaze leveled with Merrick's before he turned and set his drink soundly on the edge of a table, clearly unhappy with the topic of conversation. “That is not your concern."
"It is my concern when I am the one who is responsible for her arrest. She killed your cousin but only in self-defense. He assaulted her. He is the guilty party in this matter."
"Joseph Gray was a gentleman.” Thornton argued. “He was respected by many. Rafferty Jones is a pirate and a thief."
"Joseph Gray was a scoundrel and a bastard with family money.” Merrick corrected. “His death was just."
"If that were true, why didn't she report it?” Thornton moved towards his desk. Merrick's lips pressed. “She would have been arrested anyway."
"A minor point."
"Sir..."
"Bring her to me. My cousin's death is not her only charge.” Thornton interrupted. “Or do I arrest you as well, Cole?” Merrick's eyes narrowed as Thornton reached for a cigar and lit it, puffing the fire to life. “It isn't like you to speak on behalf of a prisoner like this, Cole. I sent you because you, generally, give me no problems. You do as you're told, and you do it quietly and quickly. You've done well for yourself because of it. Large home, enough wealth to retire, comfortable as you choose.” Thornton spoke around the cigar. “Was she easy to bed? She has made quite a reputation for herself. Is she worth being arrested for?"
Merrick stepped forward, his voice low with fury, “You do not threaten me, John Thornton. If you have a charge against me, then arrest me. If not, I suggest you appreciate that I have not drawn my sword against you yet."
"You think I would not have you arrested?” Thornton chuckled.
"I think you would not if you want Rafferty Jones delivered,” Merrick countered. “My men are under orders to let her go if I do not return by dark."
"Your men?” Thornton raised his brow, a slow smile pulling at his mouth. “You've become quite comfortable in your position. You forget I am the one who placed you in it. You have men to command because I allow it."
Merrick said nothing, glaring at Thornton as he continued. “Therefore, they are my men.” His eyes glittered when Merrick's hand made a fist at his side. “You do not like that? It is the truth. Tell, me, Cole. How loyal are your men? Especially those that you have led for a number of years."
Thornton's gaze rested on Merrick's expression. “I'll give you the chance to bring her to me as I've told you to do. By dawn. That should give you enough time to fuck her once more.” Thornton removed the cigar from his mouth. “Fail me, and you will learn your men are not so loyal as you believe. You are dismissed."
Merrick hesitated. His hand itched to hit the man. Instead, he turned and marched towards the door.
"I will do nothing more for you,” he growled.
"I shall consider her delivery your resignation,” Thornton agreed, moments before Merrick slammed the door behind him.
As he stepped into the street, his rage consumed him and he thought of going back and slicing Thornton in half. He'd not even consider his words. The bastard thought he was in control, so certain that Cole's crew would turn on him. As he climbed into the carriage, he turned his eyes to the window and found Thornton staring down at him. Soundly, he rapped on the roof and the carriage lurched forward.
Chapter 9
"I can't turn her over to that man,” Merrick spoke quietly, so only Hogg could hear him, and lifted his eyes to the dark, starless sky. “I'm finished with this business."
"You are going to set her free? Thornton is no fool. He most likely already has London crawling with officers,” Hogg said, but Merrick didn't look at him.
"She was defending herself. If she were a gentleman's wife and that happened, it would be considered justified."
"It still doesn't wipe clean her charges of piracy. You've never had mercy for that crime before."
Merrick closed his eyes and exhaled loudly. No, he hadn't. He'd had little mercy for anyone since he became a naval officer. It was why Thornton called upon him so often. But Rafferty Jones had infected him, like the plague. He couldn't shake her from his thoughts.
"Where is she now?"
"Below,” Hogg answered. Merrick turned and headed down to his cabin. He found Rafferty sitting on the bunk. When he entered, she jumped to her feet.
"I'm ready.” She lifted her chin. Merrick studied her in silence. It was a brave front, but her shaking hands, moments before she crossed her arms, gave her away. Still, he admired her effort to hide her fear.
"I'm to deliver you to him in the morning.” Merrick walked towards his desk. “That gives you little less than twelve hours to escape.” He glanced at her when she said nothing. She was staring at him as if he'd grown another nose.
"Do you know anyone in London who could hide you? Perhaps someone with a ship?” Merrick asked and she sat down on the bed, bowing her head. Moments later, her shoulders shook and he stared, realizing that she was weeping.
"Rafferty...” He stepped forward, but she held up her hand and turned her head.
"I didn't expect you to free me.” S
he forced her voice to remain steady. “Not really. I'd hoped you would give me back one of my blades but no more than that.” Merrick said nothing.
"John Thornton,” she said, looking up at him as tears fell from her eyes. “You asked me what I feared. I fear John Thornton. He killed my father. I was only twelve. He meant to do away with me after he rutted on top of me. But I ran and hid while he undressed. When he left, I ran again to get as far away from him as I could. A seaman took pity on me and hid me on his ship. I've been running ever since."
"Why would he care about bringing in a young girl for something that happened years ago?” Merrick asked.
"My father worked under Thornton's command ... did things for him that Thornton didn't want to send his officers to do."
"What things?"
Rafferty took a deep breath. “He killed people, Captain. He killed people who got in Thornton's way. My father was greedy. He threatened Thornton, to make public the business he conducted, if Thornton didn't give him more gold. He used me as part of the threat. He told Thornton that he'd given his daughter the information to have delivered to certain men who could terminate Thornton's career. It was a lie. I never received any such documents."
"But Thornton believed him."
Merrick watched her cover her face. “I knew it was only a matter of time before he got what he had wanted all those years ago. I was gonna try to kill him when he crawled on top of me again."
"Perhaps I should turn you over to him just for the sheer joy his death would bring me,” Merrick growled, shaking with anger. “But I would not be able to live with a clean conscience if I took you to him.” Merrick kept his distance, respecting her wishes as she blinked back her tears.
"For your effort, I am grateful, but you must take me to him.” She finally lifted her face, green eyes glittering. “Hogg is one of Thornton's spies."
Merrick frowned deeply. “You are mistaken."