Taming Wilde by Rachel van Dyken Read Free Book Online Page B

room?” she whispered,
     half to herself. Her cheeks burned when she realized Lord Maddox had heard her.
    He looked to Bridget and cocked an eyebrow questioningly, as though seriously considering
     Gemma’s suggestion.
    “No,” Bridget said, though it was hesitant and hardly the resounding answer Gemma
     was expecting. “Go. Find Sir Wilde. Spread your rakish message to those who need it
     most.”
    “Just…” Gemma interjected once again before she could stop herself. “Don’t do it overly
     well.”
    The viscount laughed. “My lady, I shall do my utmost worst.”

 

Chapter Seven
     
    Many a man ha ve tried to follow in my footsteps, but how do you follow a legend? It is impossible,
     which is why every rake must set himself apart. I once knew a fellow who refused to wear a cravat. Women went mad. Another fellow would search the ballroom
     for one dance, and once he found someone desir able he would make a grand show of waltzing with her and leave the minute the dance
     was finished, with her on his arm! So, a fellow must ask himself, ‘W hat is it I am good at? ’ Gentleme n, if you have to think too hard on this answer, then perhaps you should seek another
     goal. For a rake is good at everything and lacking in nothing . —The Private Journal of Viscount Maddox
     
    Colin couldn’t see straight. In fact, he was so angry that he walked directly out
     of the ballroom into the cool evening air.
    What the devil was she thinking? Seducing a rake! And the first man she encounters
     is that one? He bit down hard on his lower lip and crossed his arms. Where had the Gemma
     he fell in love with run off to? Granted, he liked her newfound confidence, a little
     too much if he was being honest with himself.
    “Oh, I’m so sorry,” a sultry voice said behind him. “I thought the balcony was empty.”
    “You and me both,” he answered and turned.
    Lady Priscilla gave him a saucy grin and winked. “I lied.”
    “Did you now?” Colin tried a rakish smile. After all, Lady Priscilla was quite famous
     amongst the gentlemen. Although she wasn’t truly a lady, it was what every man called
     her, for she was one of the highest-paid courtesans in the ton . Rumors had run rampant two weeks ago, after one of her latest conquests dumped her
     for a true lady.
    “What can I do for you?” Colin asked, clearing his throat and nearing the lady. Her
     perfume was so strong, he fought the urge to hold his breath and look away.
    She batted her eyelashes and drew closer. “Shall we discuss it over champagne?”
    “Of course.”
    With a ridiculously fake laugh, she threw her head back, exposing far too much flesh
     to the moonlight. “Wait for me right here.” With that she turned and went back through
     the door.
    “She loves chocolates,” came the unmistakable voice of Viscount Maddox on Colin’s
     right.
    “What the…?” He turned around and came face-to-face with Anthony. “What the devil
     are you doing here?”
    “What do you think?” Anthony grabbed Colin’s arm and pulled him away from the door.
     “I agreed to help you with your first seduction.”
    “This is not my first—”
    “Do you want my help or not?” Anthony demanded.
    “I do.” Colin sighed his resignation. Though he was certain this particular girl wouldn’t
     take much convincing. He examined his friend, who seemed to be sweating profusely.
     “I say, are you all right?”
    Anthony rolled his eyes. “Just thinking about my final resting place is all.” He sighed
     and straightened his shoulders. “Lady Priscilla is very sensitive. You must not offend
     her.”
    “Right.” Colin nodded.
    “Begin by comparing her to Lady Hawthorne. She adores her and has always aimed to
     be just like her in every aspect of life.”
    “Cordelia? Ambrose’s wife? Truly?” Colin wasn’t entirely convinced.
    Anthony scratched his head and looked away. “It is all truth. Also, and do not forget
     this lest you lose her before you even try to