It only took Bennett to draw in one breath for the woman’s aroma to find her. The scent of her leather clothing was first to arrive, its bouquet earthy and rich, and then in the next breath, Bennett could smell fresh yet subtle flowers. Bennett filled her lungs again, and recognizing the fragrance was rapidly becoming addictive, she pivoted so her eyes aligned with the men at the table.

“So what should we wager tonight?” Simeon said, briskly rubbing his hands together.

“Why do we have to wager at all?” Max said with a shrug. “Let’s just play a friendly game.”

“Where’s the fun in that? Besides, you play better where there’s more on the line, or are you afraid to lose another house?”

“I genuinely liked my estate in Conques.”

“I like it, too. It’s so much quieter than Paris or Lyon. I can’t thank you enough for wagering it.”

“Which is the reason I won’t be wagering tonight,” Max said, moving one of his pawns. “I have no intention of losing another of my estates to you.”

“Then I suppose I’ll have to make it worth your while,” Simeon said, scratching his jutting chin. “If you win, I’ll not only give you back your house in Conques, I’ll throw in my castle in Bonn. It overlooks the Rhine, and the view is marvelous.”

“Yes, I remember the view.” Max leaned back and took a moment to think. “And if you win?”

“When I win, since I have no need for more property, a taste of your peasant’s juicy bits is all I want.”

Max’s distinguished face clouded in anger. “Simeon, take care with your words. There are ladies present.”

“The only lady in this room is Angelique, and she doesn’t care. Do you, Angel?”

Angelique Chevalier rolled her eyes and didn’t even bother looking in the man’s direction. “No, Simeon. I don’t care. I’ve heard it all before.”

“See,” Simeon said, opening his arms wide. “Now, what do you say, Max?”

“I say no,” Max said, scowling. “I say Bennett is not up for trade, lease, or sale, and I would no more take that kind of wager than I would stand in the sun. Your offer is appalling, and your attitude equally so. If you’d like to play a game of chess, then let’s, but be warned, my friend, you are beginning to try my patience, and I’d hate for your visit to end like Concepcion’s.”