Page 6 of My Gentleman Spy
He offered her his hand and she was compelled to take it. For someone who had just been in the cold sea, his hands were surprisingly warm. Yet, she shivered at histouch.
She shivered a second time before letting out a loud sneeze. A flash of dismay passed over Will’sface.
“There is little point in me helping to save your life, if I let you sit here and catch your death of cold. You must come back with me to my hotel and get those clothes driedoff.”
He tightened his grip of her hand, revealing his offer to be more of a command. The recklessness of her actions now laid themselves open to her sight. She was alone in a foreign country; and within minutes of leaving the protection of her family she was being asked to accompany a man back to his hotel. Tears pricked her eyes. How long would it be before something terrible befell her? Before she was utterlyruined.
She tore her hand from hisgrasp.
“I don't think that is a very good idea Mr. Saunders, we have only just met. I am from a respectable family, and as such you must understand that I am not the sort of girl who goes anywhere with a strange man,” shereplied.
Will softly chuckled. “I've oft considered myself a little odd, but never strange. Though my sister Eve may have something else to say about thematter.”
He walked over to a nearby leather satchel and after rummaging around in it, pulled out a card. He handed it toher.
Mr. William Saunders Esq, 28 Dover Street, London itread.
As Hattie read the card, relief flooded her heart. She knew of the Saunders family; they were very respectable members of theton. Her mother had attended several functions at the Saunders’ house in Dover Street. She had met Evelyn Saunders the year of her coming out, but could not recall an older brother. The family were connected to the Duke of Strathmore. Rich andpowerful.
If this gentleman was indeed William Saunders, then she was as likely to be safe with him as anyone else. He would understand the predicament she was in and the risk to which her reputation was currently faced. A small mercy had beenbestowed.
“You live in London?” sheasked.
“As of next week, yes. That's my father's house, where I shall be residing until I can secure a new abode for myself. I have lived abroad for the past few years,” hereplied.
“I assure you Miss Wilson you shall be perfectly safe with me. As a gentleman it is my duty to take care of young ladies such as yourself and make sure they come to no harm. Let me at least escort you back to my hotel and see that you aresettled.”
Hattie looked once more at Will's calling card. It was not as if she had a lot of other options to call upon. Beggars were not offered the luxury of choice. She offered him herhand.
“We need to get you into some warm dry clothes and soon, your hands are like ice,” hesaid.
