Page 22 of The Devil's Bargain
Caroline’s eyes widened slightly. He’d done his research thoroughly. “You know about both?”
“I make it my business to understand the intricacies of what I pursue.” His smile was smug.
She leaned closer, impressed despite herself. “Very observant. What else have you deduced about my work?”
“The copper alloy’s composition is fascinating.” His bound fingers flexed. “I’ve had my metallurgists analyse samples. They’re baffled.”
“And what makes you think I’d share that secret?”
“Because I know about the aluminium shortage affecting your suppliers. I could help with that... if we’re trading valuable information.”
Caroline’s breath caught. She stood abruptly, pacing beside the bed. “You’ve been watching my supply chain.”
“Among other things.”
“Very thorough,” she murmured. “And what would you offer for my copper alloy composition?”
“Details about Clearwater’s new purification process. The one they’re planning to unveil next month.” His smile widened at her sharp intake of breath. “Yes, I know about that too. Though I suspect their efficiency claims are... optimistic.”
“Because they don’t account for sediment accumulation,” they said simultaneously.
Their eyes met, and something electric passed between them. It was one thing to fence with business intelligence, but this deep technical understanding felt far more intimate. That he could grasp not just the principles but the elegance of her work was intoxicating. For a man who had forced his way into her life through manipulation to continuously show such deep appreciation of her mind, this ability to engage with her innovations... it complicated everything. And from the intense way he studied her face, she suspected he felt it too, this unexpected meeting of minds that seemed to transcend their battle of wills.
She sat back on the bed, closer this time. “You really have been paying attention.”
“To every detail.” His intense gaze held hers. “Including how your eyes light up when you talk about your innovations. Like they are now.”
Heat spread to her nape. “You’re trying to distract me.”
“No, I’m trying to show you something. My obsession with understanding every aspect of your genius.” His voice roughened. “Now, about that aluminium shortage...”
Caroline found herself leaning closer, drawn in by his astute observations and probing questions. Here was a man who could match her mind as well as stir her body.
Once they had traded their promised secrets, Caroline shifted closer, her nightgown whispering against the silk sheets. With deliberate slowness, she reached for the rope that bound one of his ankles. “I find myself curious about something.”
“Oh?”
“You seem remarkably comfortable in restraints for a man who’s used to being in control.” Her fingers traced the rope’s path down to his ankle. “One might almost think you’re enjoying this position.”
“Perhaps I am.” His eyes followed her movements. “Though I must admit, I’m more intrigued by this bold side of you. The proper widow, tying up a man to extract his secrets.”
“Who says I’m only after secrets?” In one fluid motion, she straddled his thigh, her nightgown riding up to reveal a glimpse of stocking. “Perhaps I want to understand how the great Devlin Elmstone operates. What… stimulates him.” She leaned forward, her loose hair brushing his bare chest. “What makes him... surrender.”
His breath stilled. “Dangerous game, Caroline.”
“I excel at dangerous games.” She traced a finger down his chest, feeling his muscles tense beneath her touch.
“You magnificent creature,” he growled.
Her lips brushed his ear. “I want to see how much control you really have.”
“I’m still bound,” he reminded her, though his voice had roughened considerably.
“Yes, you are.” Her fingers traced patterns on his stomach. “Perfect position to answer my questions.”
His laugh was strained. “You’re ruthless.”
“Thoroughly.” She shifted slightly, knowing exactly how the movement would affect him. “I admit to being tempted to test your composure in more... creative ways.”
