Going Rogue by Jessica Jefferson Read Free Book Online Page B

significantly.
    Meredith skimmed the letter again. She needed twice the usual amount—something about the roof. At this point, she was quite certain they’d put more money into the home than it was ever worth in the first place.
    Meredith hid the letter under a hand-held mirror, then walked to the door, more determined than she’d ever been.
    Once in the carriage, she found herself sitting directly in front of Ophelia’s brother.
    If Miss Ophelia Marshall was one of the loveliest women she’d ever seen, her brother, Mr. Garrett Marshall, had to be one of the most handsome men. Whereas the Marshall women were petite, he was tall with an athletic physique. The family’s wealth was further evidenced by his impeccably tailored jacket and pants, which served to accentuate his exceptional form.
    Fine clothes from Bond Street didn’t make a bit of difference on a man like that. He could have worn a burlap sack and still looked just as good.
    The journey from her home in Mayfair to the opera dragged on for over an hour. Not that she minded. Waiting gave her more time to become better acquainted with the Marshall family, without Lord Marshall, who’d been kept at the club longer than expected. Besides, she was thoroughly enjoying the view from her shared bench with Ophelia.
    “Ophelia tells me you’ve been to London before, Mr. Marshall,” Meredith remarked.
    “I’ve spent a few Seasons here,” he replied in an equally casual tone.
    “Not nearly enough,” interjected his mother.
    He smirked and shrugged with boyish charm. “What would be the point of coming to shop at the market if I wasn’t yet ready to make a purchase?’
    Lady Marshall slapped his arm playfully with her fan. “You’re incorrigible.”
    Ophelia giggled behind her gloved hand. “Still, I’m surprised you’ve never met Miss Castle before.”
    His eyes darkened and his expression changed into something more devilish. “We have mutual acquaintances. Even though I’ve never had the direct privilege of meeting Miss Castle . . .” His gaze burned into hers. “. . . I’ve heard much about her.”
    Meredith matched his stare with one of her own. “And I hope you believe none of it.” Her tone was playful, but she meant every word she said. Truth or lies—there was a good chance that neither one had portrayed her in the best sort of light.
    “What a pity, then.” he said just loud enough for her to hear.
    Ophelia and her mother were so involved with whatever it was that had caught their attention outside their window, that neither one took notice when Mr. Marshall leaned toward her.
    “Do you enjoy a good ride, Miss Castle?” he asked in a hushed tone, a wicked smile on his face.
    “Pardon?” Meredith practically fell off her bench. She was far from a prude, but such blatant innuendo was a bit much, even for her. “I don’t think this is appropriate—”
    “Horses,” he interrupted. “Do you like to ride horses? Myself? I thoroughly enjoy a good mount.”
    Her gaze narrowed and he sat back grinning like a fool. He was obviously pleased to no end that he’d managed to catch her off guard. She wouldn’t let it happen again. She always held the upper hand, and she’d be damned before she let some fop like Mr. Marshall take it from her.
    Ophelia turned back and rejoined their conversation. “Is my brother boasting about his stables again? Garrett’s an avid horseman and an enthusiastic braggart.” She smiled in that teasing way younger sisters often did when ribbing their older brothers.
    Suddenly, Meredith was reminded of sharing a similar moment with the boy she’d once considered as close to her as any brother by blood could be. The thought was fleeting and she banished it from her mind, just as swiftly as it appeared.
    “I’m afraid I don’t ride as much as I used to,” Meredith answered, the unexpected direction of her thoughts putting her a bit on edge.
    “And why is that?” he asked.
    Meredith looked down at her gloved