The idea of sleeping with Devon wasn’t, in itself, a horrible thing. In fact, judging by the way her body reacted every time he was near, a few hours of mutual pleasure might be satisfying to them both. The very thought made her breasts ache as if he’d already touched them.

But even while she acknowledged the temptation that was Devon St. John, a thought clamored in the back of her mind. He would make love to her and then leave her. He had offered no more. Could she accept such a bargain?

Truly, Kat did not know. So instead of mulling it further, she bided her time. “Perhaps we should eat first and then discuss this…situation.”

His eyes darkened and for an instant, she thought he’d refuse. But then a smile glinted in his blue eyes. “A reprieve then. But only until we’ve eaten.”

Chapter 12

The worst part about dealing with the opposite sex, poor souls, is that they never seem to realize that even when we tell them that they are in control, they are not. Nothing would ever get done correctly, else.

Mrs. Compton to Madame Bennoit, at a fitting at Madame’s establishment on Bond Street

Kat was agonizingly aware of Devon throughout lunch. He, meanwhile, seemed the same as ever—talking and teasing and several times making her laugh at his nonsense. Only once did she catch him looking at her with an intense expression.

Just as they finished lunch, the clouds overhead darkened. The wind rose and the plaid blanket was puffed away while they were packing the remains of their lunch back into the saddlebag. Kat had to run to catch the blanket, laughing as she did so. The wind was quick and freeing, tugging her skirts and hair, blowing fresh and cool.

Her spirits began to lift even though a part of her still dreaded the upcoming conversation.

Devon put the blanket away, then looked up at the darkening sky. “I don’t know if we’re going to make it back to Kilkairn.”

She followed his gaze and agreed. It was looking dark, indeed. “There is a copse of woods where we can take shelter.”

He glanced at her with a lopsided grin that sent her heart spinning in place. “I suppose it would be too much to ask for a cottage like yours.”

“Far too much. All there is for shelter is a shed that was once used by the toll keeper. It has only three sides and probably leaks like a sieve.”

“Just my luck.” He untied the horses and led Lady to Kat. “Good thing I’m an admiral. We may have to swim home.”

She allowed him to help her into the saddle. He set her up without effort, then stood looking up at her, his hands still on her waist.

Kat grew uneasy under the intensity of his gaze. “What? Is my hair mussed?”