curtains had been tied back from the windows, but the light
that entered had little impact on the overall gloom. The bed was
shrouded in colors suitable to mourning. Black and maroon hang
ings cascaded from the ceiling.
Far and away the most interesting sight in the chamber was
Imogen's nicely rounded backside. Matthias felt a sharp tug in the
vicinity of his groin.
The lush curve of Imogen's derriere was displayed in a provocative manner due to her somewhat
awkward position. She was bent
over at the waist, attempting to haul a large iron-bound trunk out
from under the black-draped bed. The skirts of her bombazine
gown had risen several inches in back to reveal elegantly shaped
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calves clad in white stockings. Matthias had a sudden, nearly over
whelming desire to explore the territory above the tops of the
stockings.
The powerful wave of desire that rolled through him took him
by surprise. He drew a long breath and forced himself to concen
trate on the problem at hand.
Miss Waterstone?"
What in the world?" Imogen came upright with a quick, startled movement. She whirled around, her
face flushed from her
recent exertions. Her hand swept out and struck a small, ugly
statue of a tomb deity standing on a nearby table. The little clay
monstrosity crashed to the floor and shattered.
Oh, dear." Imogen frowned at the broken statue.
Don't waste any regrets on it," Matthias advised after a single
glance at the remains of the statue. It's not Zamarian."
No, it isn't, is it." Imogen reached up to straighten her little
white cap, which had listed to one side. I did not hear you coming
down the hall, my lord. You cannot possibly be finished with the
library?"
No, madam, I have barely even begun. I have come up here to
discuss something more important."
She brightened. Our plans to trap Vanneck?"
Your plans, not mine, Miss Waterstone. misses Elibank and I have
discussed the matter in some detail, and we are both of the same
opinion. Your scheme is ill-advised, rash, and possibly quite
dangerous."
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Imogen stared at him, dismay darkening her eyes. Sir, you
cannot stop me."
I was almost certain you would say that." He studied her for a
moment. What will you do if I refuse to assist you by playing the
role that you have assigned to me?"
She eyed him uncertainly. You refuse to keep your promise to
my uncle?"
Miss Waterstone, the promise I made to Selwyn was rather
vague in nature. It is open to interpretation, and since I made the
promise, I shall interpret it."
Hmm." She put her hands on her hips and began to tap her toe.
You intend to default on your promise, do you not?"
No. I always keep my promises, Miss Waterstone, and this one
will be no exception." Matthias realized he was growing angry. I
have concluded that the best way I can repay my debt to your
uncle, however, is to keep you out of dangerous mischief."
I warn you, sir, you may refuse to aid me, but you cannot stop
me from carrying out my plan. I will admit that your support
would be invaluable, but I am certain that I can attract Vanneck's
attention without you."
Is that so?" Matthias took a step into the chamber. And just
how will you do that, Miss Waterstone? Will you meet him in a
private bedchamber again as you did three years ago? I must
admit, such an offer will no doubt capture his interest."
Imogen looked dumbfounded for an instant. Then outrage lit
her eyes. How dare you, sir?"
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Chagrin lanced through Matthias. He suppressed it. The ends
justified the means in this case, he assured himself. He clamped his
teeth together. I apologize for bringing up the incident, Miss
Waterstone."
As well you should."
But," he continued relentlessly, I fail to see how either of us
can ignore