tared at her in stunned anger. Rafael arrived at her room on cue, glaring down at the man, demanding he do his du

recalling a glimpse of his well-turned backside before he jerked up his breeches. He accompanied her brother

atened him with charges. Threats of legal action must have worn down the man's denials that he never t

he study, she shivered on a bench outside the door, wishing for it to be ov

hear her describe how he'd entered her room and forced himself on her. He laughed outright during the tel

appeared to be waiting for her to let him off the hook; and admit he hadn't forced himself on her. She

rest. At that moment, she knew Rafael erred in choosing this man for his schemes. Aubrielle felt like she traded e

wed her while their bags were being loaded onto the coach later t

how her lies condemned him. It was likely no worse a crime than the man had been accused of b

**

ort to make everything ready. They'd been up since the wee hours preparing for a

y by Sir Rafael Dane and the preacher's wife, Juliette Wells. The small salon was arranged for the hasty nu

epped down in the small, circular courtyard looking about in contempt. The man was resplendent and impeccable in hi

nt the servants had them scurrying to get out of his way. His disparaging glance around the mo

His anger seemed to permeate from him. He stared down at her without expression during Reverend Wells' short sermon. His long, capable fingers slid the gold band upon her

in a ridiculous display of joy. The congratulations died on his lips. Lord Evercrof

he salon to his rooms. The preacher and his wife too

aring out over the small, overgrown gardens beyond. Rafael wasted little time in abandoning her to face the man's

to marry Dorian. It was an ivory satin confection that was hastily pressed for the sudden nuptials. The droopi

ly pray he treated her kindly. Her moist hands trembled. She discarded the small bouquet

back to her, making her jump from the sound of his velvety