He smirked. “Your father came to me the day before his accident. He rescinded his blessing and told me he was going to sway you to beg off. You belong to me. I could not let him take you away.”
“I belong to no man, least of all you.” The carriage took a sharp turn, banging her head against the interior wall. The pain spiraled through her skull.
Rose swallowed the lump in her throat. She wished she could believe Hunter was in pursuit and would rescue her. But she knew better than to stake her hopes on an uncertainty. How could he even know where she was, or what had happened to her?
She had to take responsibility for her own saving. The carriage jerked to a stop. She pulled her attention back to her surroundings.
“I do not know about you, but I am famished. We will take a short reprieve from the carriage to break our fast. I expect you to behave.”
She smiled sweetly. As soon as the door opened, she would make a run for it. Even if he caught her, it would be too late. For surely at an eating establishment, there would be witnesses.
“Just in case you are planning to cause a scene, you should know I have a man watching your precious Gran. She will experience a tragic accident if you try anything foolish.”
Her heart sank. He might be bluffing, but could she take the chance?
“The Devontons and Lord Aubry are also counting on you.”
Would he have risked stopping in the first place if he feared they were being followed? No, she did not believe his words an idle threat.
Now what? She could not risk the lives of her loved ones, nor could she marry the vile man before her. There was but one choice. She nodded before bowing her head, defeated. “Yes, Mr. Wolfe.”
Chapter 14
Hunter pulled rein in front of the Devonton’s house and threw himself from the saddle. He tethered his horse to a nearby tree before taking the small front steps in one fluid movement to thump on the door. Rose’s mount was tethered near his. Pray, let her be here.
The door creaked open. A weathered old man stuck his head out, his face marred by an angry purple bruise. Hunter’s heart contracted. “I have come for Miss Woodcourt.”
“I cannot help you, my lord.” The elderly man slammed the door.
What the bloody hell? No one had ever shut a door in his face. He pounded on the door again. “I must speak with her right away. It is imperative. Rose, if you are in there, make your presence known.”
“Let the gentleman in,” a woman said from within. “He clearly cares for her.”
The door creaked open once again and the old man stepped aside.
“Hurry,” the woman called out.
Hunter stepped into the small space. The door squeaked shut behind him. He glanced about. “Where is Miss Woodcourt?”
The elderly woman met his gaze, her eyes brimming with tears. “I fear if we tell you anything, it will cost us dearly.”
The man, her husband perhaps, went to her side, his hand coming to rest on her shoulder. “I am sorry. We want to help, but I am not sure we can.”
Hunter noted the fear in his eyes. He had thought to offer them money to loosen their tongues. Now he knew it would not be enough. “I can offer you protection.”
The woman’s eyes lit with hope before she looked to her husband, who gave her a nod.
“Please, tell me where she has gone.”
“Mr. Wolfe took her.” The woman’s voice shook and a tear slid down her cheek. “He made me write that note. Then he took her.”
Hunter stalked to the couple, his stomach churning. “Took her where?”
The man squeezed his wife’s shoulder. “He did not say. Though he did ramble something about marriage and Scotland.”
“How long ago did he depart with her?”
“Two, maybe three hours past.”
A fist pounded on the door and the couple jumped. Hunter spun and strode to answer it.
“Please do not. You must hide.” The woman’s voice broke. “It could be one of Mr. Wolfe’s men.”
If so, Hunter would deal with him. Perhaps he would get more answers as to Rose’s whereabouts.
“Trust me.” He tossed what he hoped was a comforting glance over his shoulder before pulling the door open, ready to strike.
Sinclair stepped into the cottage. “I came as soon as Julia showed me the letter.”
“All is well.” Hunter gave the couple a nod. They huddled together on the settee. “Lord Sinclair is a close friend. He has been aiding me with Rose’s situation.”
The couple smiled, but lines of worry still marred their faces. “I must go after Wolfe and Rose. Lord Sinclair will take care of you.” Hunter moved to the door. “Sinclair.”
“Yes.”
“See them moved into the cottage at Roselawn right away. Do not leave them alone until they are safely settled in at my estate.”
Sinclair nodded just before Hunter darted out the door. Grabbing his horse’s reins, he swung himself onto the saddle. There was no time to lose. He sucked in his breath and kicked his horse into a gallop.
They could be miles ahead of him by now. His only hope of catching Wolfe was if the dastardly man was in a carriage.
* * * *
Rose sat across from Wolfe in the dark, stuffy room. He had brought her into an old rundown establishment off the main road. A scarred oak table separated them as he ate his stew and drank his ale.
She fixed her gaze on a faded painting hanging over the bar. Everything in her screamed, telling her to run. His threats slashed at her thoughts. If she tried anything the people she loved may well pay a penance for her actions. Still, there had to be a way to save herself without them being harmed.
“You have not touched your food. We will not stop again before nightfall.”
His tone sent a shiver coursing through her, but she did not look away from the painting. “I would rather starve than break bread with you.”
He chuckled. “We will see how you feel about that on the morrow.”
A deep chill grabbed her bones. She had to get away from him. Perhaps tonight as he slumbered she could make a run for it. By the time he woke, she would be back in London, and a constable would be on his way to capture the fiend.
A risky plan, but her choices were limited. If she could beat him back to London, she may be able to protect those he threatened. She would need a disguise to get past his men’s prying eyes. No, she could not risk alerting anyone. She would go directly to the constable. A sound plan…she hoped.
She slanted a glance at him. A dribble of stew ran from his lip and he swiped at it with his sleeve. Her insides churned with disgust. Newgate would be too good for him.
He signaled to a bar maid, lifted his glass, and drained the remaining ale. “Time for us to take our leave, pet.” He tossed some coins onto the table before moving to her side. “Take my arm.”
She stood, but could not will herself to touch him.
“Now.” He pushed the command through clenched teeth.
As she took a step toward the door, he clutched her elbow.
“Need I remind you how to behave like a proper woman?” He jerked her back into motion. “You will pay for your insolence.”
The driver opened the carriage door while Wolfe marched her toward the conveyance. He thrust her inside, climbing in after her. Once the door closed, she heard the latch slide into place locking them inside. Both her hip and shoulder throbbed from the earlier abuse she suffered as she righted herself on the bench.
The carriage jerked into motion, tossing her against the seat. Rose’s head smacked against the hard wall of the conveyance. Previous experience should have told her to steel herself for the impact. She reached up and rubbed the bump already forming beneath her chignon.
Wolfe tapped the window. A moment later, the driver’s face appeared. “Do not stop again until nightfall.”
* * * *
Hunter pushed his mount hard toward Scotland. He had taken a moment to check the first several establishments he p
assed, but no one had seen anyone matching Rose or Wolfe’s descriptions. It proved to be a fool’s errand that only cost him precious time.
His best bet would be to reach Gretna Green before Wolfe did. It had to be the final destination. A marriage license was not easy to come by, especially when the bride was unwilling. So, how did Wolfe intend to make her cooperate? Even in Gretna Green, you could not force marriage upon an unwilling bride.
His gut twisted. Wolfe could have done any number of things to force Rose’s hand. If only he could find her along the way. Save her from whatever Wolfe had planned to make her consent.
Anger boiled within him and he pushed his mount harder. He would ride straight through the night, stopping only to switch horses. Once he found her he would have Wolfe locked away. Seeing the man dead would be more satisfying, but Hunter was no murderer. As much as he wished he could kill Wolfe for his transgressions, he knew he could never make good on it.
An establishment came into view. He would stop to switch his horse there. The last several hours of hard riding were getting to the beast and dusk was closing in. It would be easier to get a fresh horse while there was still a bit of light. His mount did not resist the pace, but it would not serve to ride the thing to its death.
Carriage wheels crunched behind him. Hunter glanced back. Wolfe? He pulled reins, slowing his mount. His heart pounding, he studied the conveyance as it passed. The curtains were wide open, reveling the sole traveler inside. A bold crest covered the door. His heart sank. It was not Wolfe. He squeezed his thighs against his mount, pushing it on. The inn stood no more than a furlong ahead of him.
He would take the time to inquire inside before continuing toward Scotland. Mayhap someone there might have seen Rose or Wolfe. Even if they traveled by carriage--God, how he hoped they did--they would have to stop at some point to change horses. He guided his mount to the lad stationed near the inn’s entrance.
“I need a fresh horse without delay.” Hunter dismounted, handing the reins to the lad.
“Right away, my lord.”
“Tell me, have you seen a woman with auburn hair and crisp green eyes pass through?”
“I have seen a great many women who fit that description.”
“This one is rather short, her eyes the shade of grass. She smells of honeysuckle and was last seen in a blue-velvet riding habit.”
The lad nodded. “I have seen one recently fitting your description.”
“When did you see her? Where?”
“She arrived with a man about twenty minutes ago. He had me put the horse and carriage up, but ordered it to be ready at first light. I found it odd because she appears to be a lady but the man is clearly not of the aristocracy.”
Hunter knew his grin looked dark when the lad flinched. He reached into his pocket and handed him a coin. “You did good, lad. Let us keep this between us. You hurry out with a fresh horse and I will get on my way.”
The boy smiled before turning to switch the horse.
Hunter slipped quietly to the side of the inn and pressed his body against it. He could not afford to tip Wolfe off. If he made his presence known, the man might do something rash. Rose could be hurt.
Chapter 15
Hunter rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he paced between two oak trees across the street from the inn. He had been at it all night, constantly fighting sleep and exhaustion, but never taking his eyes off the structure. Still, he had no idea what to do about the situation. He could not march in and break down doors, as he wanted to.
He scrubbed a hand across his jaw. Dawn would be upon him soon. He would have to act or risk losing her. The latter was not an option. He moved to his mount and ran a hand down its neck. Once he rescued Rose, he would retrieve his horse. It would be necessary to secure a carriage as well for their return trip to Roselawn.
The first rays of sun peaked over the horizon, turning the night sky various shades of pink. Well, it was now or never. Hunter lifted a prayer as he crept back to the inn.
A different lad stood near the entrance than the one he had met the previous night. This one was taller and a bit broader of shoulder. He appeared to be several years older, too.
“My lord.” The lad bowed.
An idea formed in Hunter’s mind and he flashed a smile. “Might you be of assistance?”
“Yes, my lord. You have but to ask.”
“Are you to be trusted?” He knew not whether the lad would be honest, but still felt the need to ask.
The lad nodded. “Mother says it is my best quality.”
“Very good. Here is what I need.” Hunter leaned in close and whispered his plan. “Do you think you can do that?”
The lad met his gaze. “Yes, my lord.”
“Perfect.” When Hunter handed him a couple of coins, the lad’s eyes grew large.
“It is a great deal of money, my lord.” A wide smile curled his lips.
“If all goes to plan, you can count on more.”
“I will not disappoint you, my lord.”
Hunter nodded before ducking around the side of the inn. He crouched down beside a shrub, keeping his back against the building’s hard facade. Somewhere in the distance, birds chirped and a horse neighed. The last of the night’s stars faded against the brightening sky. It would not be long now.
“I ordered my carriage ready at first light. Where is it, you incompetent brat?” Wolfe’s voice boomed from around the corner.
Hunter held his breath, waiting for the lad’s reply. His pulse beat in his throat.
“I am afraid there was an incident. You had better come see.”
Hunter grinned. Perfect. The lad’s tone oozed confidence, giving nothing away.
“What is this foolishness?” Wolfe bellowed. “Stop this nonsense and bring my carriage forth. Can you not see my wife is ready to be on our way?”
Fury spread through Hunter. It took every ounce of his control to stay in place. He unclenched his fists. Not yet.
“You really must come see it for yourself, sir.”
“I will have your job for this. Come along, darling.”
The crunch of pebbles mixed with the pounding in Hunter’s head. The plan had failed. He straightened and darted around the building.
Wolfe grabbed Rose, pulling her close against him. “Lord Aubry, how kind of you to show up. I suggest you halt right there.” He drew a pistol out of his great coat and held it to Rose’s head.
Hunter froze. Protectiveness raged through him. He could not allow Wolfe to take his Rose. Her face was pale, her eyes filled with panic. He looked back at Wolfe. “You do not want to hurt her.”
“Indeed.” He aimed the gun at Hunter. “I would much prefer to see you dead.” Wolfe squeezed the trigger.
“No!” Rose screamed and flailed her arm hitting Wolfe’s as the gun discharged.
The lad lunged toward Wolfe, tumbling them both to the ground and landing with a thud upon him. The gun skidded across the stones.
Hunter rushed forward, diving for the pistol. Stones scraped his hands and dust burned his eyes. He closed his fingers around the weapon, ignoring the thumping of his heart.
“Get off of me.” Wolfe rolled over, squishing the lad beneath him before struggling to his feet.
Hunter held the pistol on him. “You will not be going anywhere, Wolfe.” He nodded toward the boy. “Lad?”
“Yes, my lord?”
“Go inside straight away and get some assistance.”
“She belongs to me.” Wolfe lunged toward Rose, taking her to the ground. He placed his hands around her throat holding her against the dusty drive. “I will kill her before I will give her to you.”
Hunter tucked the gun in his coat and barreled toward Wolfe, knocking him away from Rose. The man swung, connecting with Hunter’s jaw. Rose’s shouts filled the air.
“Get away from him, Wolfe.” Anger radiated from her tone. She took hold of Wolfe’s coat, but he jerked free sending her to the ground.
Hunter landed
a solid punch to Wolfe’s temple. Wolfe slumped to the ground and his eyes slid closed. Hunter stood, dusting off his breeches.
Rose ran to him and squeezed him close. He held her against him, burying his face in her honeysuckle-scented hair. His heart swelled with relief, but also something more. “Let us get you home.”
She blinked up at him. “To my cottage?”
“I am afraid it will take a bit more time to get your home back.” He feathered a finger across her cheek, sweeping away a tear. He could not let her go. “Rose, I have been a fool. I love you. I have loved you since the night I caught you in breeches, but refused to admit it--even to myself.” He dipped down and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. “I see now how dense I have been. Can you ever forgive me?”
A slow grin spread across her pink lips. “I tried not to…I did not want…I knew we could not.” She pressed her lips together, stopping the swirl of nonsensical sentences trying to make their way out of her mouth. “I love you, too.”
He leaned in and kissed her fully. She parted her lips for him and his tongue plundered her mouth, devouring her sweetness. How had he even contemplated letting her get away? He pulled back, gazing down at her. “Elope with me.”
“I cannot. You are a lord.” She glanced away. “It is not done.”
He put his fingers under her chin and guided her gaze back to his. “Sometimes it is, and I do not give a whit for society’s dictates. I love you. I want you to be my wife. Say you will marry me.”
“There is nothing I want more.” Her smile trembled and her eyes sparkled with joy.
He slanted his head, joining his lips to hers. She met his movements eagerly as he pulled her closer, their tongues swirling together in a passionate dance.
“There he is, on the ground.” The lad’s voice rang out.
Hunter turned his head, breaking the kiss. A man knelt on the ground between him and Wolfe, the lad waited a pace behind. “I am a constable. I will see to it this vermin arrives at Newgate.”
Wildly Romantic: A Multi-Genre Collection Page 93