Georgie recognized the challenge for what it was. And she had absolutely no choice but to pick up the gauntlet. “All right. I’ll be there.”

The waltz ended, and they swirled to a breathless stop. Wylde’s grip tightened for a moment before he released her. She tried to calm her racing heartbeat as he caught her hand and lifted it to his lips. Even through her gloves, the back of her fingers tingled. She snatched her hand away and held it behind her back.

His laughing eyes mocked her evasion. “Until tomorrow, Mrs. Wylde.”

Chapter 9.

Alex, naturally, cornered Benedict as soon as they were alone and demanded an explanation for his sudden interest in the Caversteed girls. Ben refused to explain until they were back at the Tricorn—mainly so he wouldn’t be forced to repeat the tale for Seb’s benefit. He waited for the third member of their team to join them in the burgundy damask-lined private salon, poured all three of them a drink, and lowered himself into one of the three large leather armchairs in front of the fire.

“I’m married,” Ben said curtly. “To Georgiana Caversteed.”

Alex almost spat out his brandy. “The shipping heiress?” he spluttered. “The picky one? That Georgiana Caversteed?”

“The very same.”

“Good God. When did that happen?”

“A few weeks ago, in Newgate.”

“Bloody hell, Ben! Only you could land an heiress—and a gorgeous one at that—while locked up in prison.”

“It’s not a permanent arrangement,” Benedict growled.

Alex shook his head, his expression one of wonder and admiration. “You should go and play cards immediately. You have the devil’s own luck.”

Seb raised his glass in an ironic toast. “Well, congratulations. It all sounds wonderfully irregular. Usually it’s the penniless beauty who’s maneuvered into marrying the rich-but-nefarious hero.” His brows arched in good humor. “But here’s our poor, pretty Benedict, forced to sacrifice himself on the altar of matrimony to an attractive hoyden worth more than all three of us put together.” He sent Benedict a mocking look. “You poor child. Fate can be so cruel.”

“Oh, go to the devil,” Benedict said crossly. “It’s only temporary. As soon as she gets here tomorrow, I’ll find out what she’s up to and put an end to this farce.”

Alex raised his brows. A wicked glint appeared in his eyes. “She’s coming here?”

“Your presence will not be required,” Benedict said firmly. The last thing he needed was Alex and Seb’s interference. He knocked back the remainder of his brandy and savored the warm burn down his throat.

“What are you going to do with her?” Alex swirled the amber liquid in his glass.