To Catch a Rake by Sally Orr Read Free Book Online

stroke his cheek and maybe even outline his rosy lips with her finger, before placing her lips on his. Having never, ever, felt this strong physical attraction for a stranger, she concluded it would be best to leave as soon as he granted her request. She felt a blush expand across her cheeks. “Promise to call upon Mr. Codlington, and I will leave in the next second.”
    He sighed, carefully released his grip, and stepped back. “Present this billet first. Men understand men, take my word. The young buck will understand no slight was intended and the engagement will be resumed to everyone’s satisfaction. If satisfaction could be found by becoming leg-shackled.”
    “But—”
    “If you continue to argue, I will include your real name in the next printing of the field guide.”
    “Sir!” He wouldn’t—he couldn’t—would he?
    She realized that the note was the best offer she would receive for the time being. If the letter failed to convince James, then she would have to make progress with the Learned Ladies Society in finding investors for Mr. Brunel’s tunnel. “I will try your note first, as you suggest. And to thank you properly, I will add to your happiness by allowing you to put forth my name in the next edition of the field guide.” She lifted her chin. “But I only glanced at your categories. I do not remember one labeled ‘Kind Service to Family’ in that…that tome of yours.”
    He winked. “And here I expected you to demand to be a Ruling Goddess.” He approached her again and stood close—near enough that she felt his warm breath on her forehead. He chucked her under the chin. “You, madam, belong under the heading of Rabbits.”
    “Rabbits! I fail to comprehend your reasoning.” She glared back at him. “No, please do not explain.”
    The wicked smile reappeared. “Rabbits because you are all pink and white, hop about a great deal, and stick your nose in where it is not wanted.”
    “Ah, very amusing, I’m sure. If I penned a field guide, I’d include you under the category of bear. Bear because you’re big and black.”
    “And bite.”
    “Yes, I’m sure you bite.”
    He leaned close enough to whisper in her ear. “Bears do not bite ladies, madam, they nibble.”
    She had not blushed in years. Today in the presence of this man, she seemed to blush every two minutes. Her physical attraction to his large, dark form must be due to her lack of sleep caused by Lily’s vexing situation. At least, she hoped that was the reason. With any luck, the letter would prove successful, and she would never have to see him again. “I am so excited, and quite flustered, as you no doubt observe. This must be an example of the wicked charm you rakes exert on females. As a widow, it doesn’t have the same effect on me—”
    “Of course,” he said with feigned sincerity.
    “But I understand how an unsuspecting lady might be led astray by your seductive rough-and-tumble wiles.”
    “I’ll have you know that many ladies actually eagerly anticipate my seductive rough-and-tumble wiles.”
    “Of course they do.” She pushed him backward several feet. “I assume they swoon onto the street upon your approach. If we ever meet again, I too promise to do so, since I’m pleased you wrote that letter to Mr. Codlington. After all, I do not wish to appear ungrateful for your efforts. I only hope you’re correct and your note proves successful.”

Three
    “Well, I’m not quite sure what to make of that adventure,” Meta said as she stepped over the threshold of the Broadsham town house.
    Lily entered directly behind her. “I do. I became so angry by his forward manners, but they frightened me to the point where I couldn’t say a word. I hope after Fitzy and I left the room, you gave him a proper set-down.” Without waiting for an answer or taking off her gloves and bonnet, Lily ran upstairs.
    Meta tried to follow her sister, eager to get her opinion on the letter’s chances of success, but her