Page 15 of Pirate's Intent
Did he know about John’s untimely death in a carriage accident? “And what happened to him?”
“My condolences.”
She nodded thanks, not sure what else to say about it. John was a marriage of convenience that benefited her uncle. Though a kind man, he had by no means been a love connection. Not when her stubborn heart belonged to another despite him abandoning her.
“What is the bad news?” she prompted.
“I am afraid your uncle was betrayed by his men all the way around,” he replied. “He did not fare as well as you and your sister, however.”
“Oh, heavens.” She squeezed her hands together, bracing for sadness, but not surprisingly, felt very little. “What happened?”
“He was attacked where he ported,” he said. “His ship and worldly goods were taken then his life.”
“I see,” she murmured, saying a prayer for his soul. Even the cruelest deserved redemption.
“Have you any kin left in Virginia?” he said softly. “Somewhere I can take you?”
“No,” she whispered and met his eyes. “But then, I imagine you know that having followed me so closely all these years.” She narrowed her eyes, sure her hunch was right. That he had not learned about her situation via those letters or even from her traitorous captain. It was in the way he looked at her. Spoke to her. The emotions she sensed simmering beneath the surface of his well-practiced façade. “Am I wrong?”
“You are not wrong.” His gaze was back to being unreadable. “But I only know what my man could discover.”
Which was clearlynotthat she often wore the brooch.
“Your man?” A strange little thrill swept through her, followed by renewed aggravation. He cared enough to spy on her yet remained afar when he promised he would come home.
“Yes,” he said. “Someone who was my eyes and ears on occasion.”
“Why?” She shook her head. “What was the point?”
“I would think that is clear.”
Her heart leapt into her throat until he continued.
“For situations such as the one you and Hannah just found yourselves in.”
“And we are thankful.” Though she should not give a damn, her heart sank. “Truly.”
What would she do now? Where would she go?
“There is much to discuss,” he went on as if following her thoughts. But then he had always been good at that, hadn’t he? She supposed, though, at the moment, it was just the logical thing to say.
“We will talk more on the morn,” he continued. “First, you should eat and get a good night’s rest.”
“No food, but thank you.” She shook her head, noting the swaying ship. “I best not test my stomach until we are in smoother waters.”
“Regrettably, I haven’t a change of clothes for you.” He gestured at his bed. “But, I do have a warm, dry place for you to sleep.”
“What about you?” She frowned. “Where will you sleep?”
“Don’t worry about me.” He stood. “I will find a spot.”
“No,” she said before she could stop herself. The truth was she didn’t want to be left alone with a ship full of pirates just beyond the door. “Please stay here.” She glanced from the floor next to the bed, to him, trying to keep her tone even. As if the idea of sleeping in the same quarters didn’t affect her. “I would feel safer with you here.”
He sank back into his chair, crossed his arms over his chest, and considered her. “You realize that if I remain here, it will not be on the floor.”
Well, he certainly was not the gentleman he used to be, was he? No, he was a pirate. A ruffian like the rest of them.
A ruffian, however, who had saved her life.
