I'll be Yours

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

I’LL BE YOURS By

Marly Mathews

1

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

2

© copyright January 2007, Marly Mathews Cover art by Jenny Dixon, © copyright January 2007 New Concepts Publishing Lake Park, GA 31636 www.newconceptspublishing.com

This is a work of fiction. All characters, events, and places are of the author’s imagination and not to be confused with fact. Any resemblance to living persons or events is merely coincidence.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

3

Chapter One Maryland, 1822 Miss Elizabeth Caulfield was an heiress. She was quite possibly the richest woman in the United States of America. Schooled in England, she had been away from Baltimore, Maryland for fourteen years. She had gone away at the age of twelve and had finished her education at the age of eighteen. But she had remained on in England, living in a variety of locations, including London, Bath, Brighton, and at numerous country estates. She walked along the dock and whirled about when someone placed a hand on her shoulder. Perturbed at the man’s impudence, she stepped back away from him and sniffed disdainfully at the air. The man was tall, impossibly so. She perused him with unabashed interest. He seemed familiar to her, and yet she could not quite place him. His hair was kissed by the sun and wildly untamed. It was far too long for her sensible tastes, and she almost wished that he would scoot along to the barber. “Do I know you, sir?” she asked. Her female companion lingered not two feet away from her. For the first time since she had set sail from Portsmouth, she actually felt glad to have Sarah Browning with her. His black trousers clung to his long legs, and his loose white shirt revealed just the barest glimmer of his blond chest hair. His hand touched her shoulder and rested there. He stared at her with an intense gaze that made her skin tingle. The way he looked at her she felt alone with him even when she was surrounded by the activity of the docks. His hand had slipped down her arm as she had turned around and now rested ever so lightly on the back of her left hand. Refusing to give him the satisfaction of staring down at her where his hand lay, she fixed her eyes on his azure blue ones. They were most disturbing and sent a thrill up and down her spine. She did know him. “Are you one of my father’s men?” she asked. Her mind continued to race. She needed to place him and quickly. He had a most disturbing effect on her, one that she didn’t like in the slightest. Her heart skipped in her chest, and her palms grew sweaty beneath her gloves. “I was one of your father’s men.” He answered curtly. At the mention of her father’s name, his warm blue eyes had flickered with Arctic cold. Oh, this was bloody brilliant. Here stood another man that the great Geoffrey Caulfield had angered. “Ah, well, I’m sorry for that. Truly,” she murmured, dropping her voice to a low contralto. “Since we’ve exchanged our niceties, I’ll just be taking my leave.” Shrugging his hand off her shoulder, she started to walk away from him when he grabbed her hand, pulling her back. “I think not!” he murmured huskily, his eyes glittering with mirth. His full mouth slanted into a smile that made her stomach plunge. Was he actually contradicting her? No one ever went against her wishes. It just was not done! “Perhaps, sir, you did not hear me the first time.” “There has never been anything wrong with my hearing. My hearing is as keen as a lad in grammar school.” “Then maybe you’re just a daft man.” Her snappy retort made his eyes flicker with

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

4

something she couldn’t quite put her finger on. Her suggestion seemed to annoy him for a muscle had begun to twitch in his cleanshaven cheek. He pursed his lips in a distasteful line. Delighting in her clever barb, she once again tried to wrench her wrist free from his ironclad grasp. But it was to no avail. He was stronger than any man she had ever commanded. She clutched her reticule in her right hand, which blessed be was still free. An uneasy feeling began to grow in the pit of her stomach. Suddenly, everything and everyone around them had become eerily still. Biting her lip in frustration, she winced when she tasted blood. This man unnerved her to her very core. Exhaustion pulled at her, making her irritable, not to mention cranky. All that she wanted was to return to her mansion on the outskirts of Baltimore. “You, Miss Caulfield, are accompanying me.” He gave her a wicked grin, flashing his perfectly straight white teeth at her. She was at a loss for words for exactly two seconds. “To hell, I am! Straightening to her regal height of 5’4 inches, she watched as that damnable muscle twitched in his cheek again. Narrowing her eyes, she resisted the uncommon urge to laugh in his face. “You, miss, are not making this easy for me.” “You have me at a loss, sir. What am I not making easy for you?” “Kidnapping you.” His words threw her for a loop, and she snorted indelicately. She could hear her headmistress’s voice resonating in her head again. ‘Someday, Miss Caulfield, you will learn that you can not always have everything your way.’ Well, Miss Grady’s words were certainly ringing true now. This man standing in front of her would not be easy to outwit. Why did her father have to anger such an astute and daring man? Couldn’t he have bothered to madden a dolt that didn’t know his arse from a hole in the ground? She sighed heavily and coyly batted her eyelashes at him. “If you let me go, I shall pay you my weight in gold.” Her eyes rested on Sarah. Her companion was making a discreet getaway. Thank heavens. She knew that Sarah would come through for her by going to fetch help. He tilted his head to one side and raked her with his searing gaze. “I wouldn’t think that to be too much gold.” His quip stung and fury began to boil through her. She searched for Sarah but could not find her anywhere. What was taking her so long to summon help? “If you are seeking the lovely Miss Browning, you will not find her. I’d warrant that she’s with my first mate, Ethan. They are no doubt having a lovely time trying to break the bed in the Rembrandt Inn.” She sent him a bewildered look. His throaty chuckle that followed her dumbfounded expression only served to rile her further. “Did you not know Miss High and Mighty?” Shaking her head she wished desperately that he would explain his little game to her. “Tell me what you are hedging around.” “I miss do not hedge.” His gaze dropped to her heaving chest and then flickered back toward her stern gaze. “Your precious Sarah does not belong to you. Actually she belongs to my first mate. If you missed his name the first time I’ll repeat it. It’s Ethan.” He drawled his first mate’s name out as if he thought that she were too dim-witted to understand what he was talking about. She bristled with indignation at his rude insinuation. “You should tread lightly sir! You

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

5

have not the right to throw careless insults in my face!” “That my fair lady was not a careless insult.” He grinned cheekily again and watched her face avidly as if he waited for her to entertain him with a right and proper tantrum. “Sarah is my faithful and dutiful companion.” Her voice deadened with hardened cold and her rioting emotions were about to get the better of her. “Oh she hasn’t been your faithful companion for quite some time now.” She didn’t like the tone of his voice or the vile suggestion he’d made. “You sir are a blackguard of the worst sort.” “Thank you.” Buoyed by the adrenaline that coursed through her she smiled sweetly tightening her grip on her reticule. “And you are a total and complete pratt!” She smiled and licked her dry lips. He belied his true emotions by tightening his fingers ever so slightly around her wrist even though he kept smiling like a besotted fool. “Watch your barbed tongue Miss Caulfield. You do not sound like the proper young lady that you have been raised to become. Why what would your dear headmistress think?” “My delicate manners must be discarded since I am talking to an ignorant ruffian.” “At this rate Elizabeth,” he said boldly using her first name. “You shall run clear out of insults before dusk.” “I detest having to reiterate what I have previously said. But I will since you seemed too slow to catch on the first time around. Release me!” she shouted this time and made him wince beneath the shattering blow her trained voice dealt. Almost simultaneously she lifted her right arm and whacked him forcefully with her reticule which was heavy with coins. His jaw snapped back and his grip slipped for the briefest of moments. But it was all of the time she required. Wriggling free of his slackened fingers she smiled when she heard him curse a blue streak. She began running away from him even though she had no true idea of where she was going. She’d always been bad with directions and since she hadn’t planted a foot on American soil in six years she was a little uncertain of the route back to her mansion. But she knew one thing with the utmost confidence. She would have plenty of money to hire a coach to take her back to Silverleigh where she’d be safe. Her father probably missed her by now. Probably being the optimal word. Her dear papa was no doubt rutting with one of his whores right at the moment. He wouldn’t remember that she was even due in port until some unfortunate soul reminded him. Then he would go into one of his famous tirades and dismiss whoever had reminded him. But on the other hand if that person had failed to do so he would be enraged as well. So essentially her father’s employees were damned if they did and damned if they didn’t. Then there were his slaves to consider. They usually lived in misery most of the time but if her father was in one of his black moods their misery was increased tenfold. Elizabeth knew that she was a great many things but she did not believe in slavery. It was something that her father and she constantly argued over and one of the reasons why she had been so happy to be sent away to England for her education. Her mother had been dead since she was ten. She clung desperately to the memory of her mother for Susan Caulfield was the only decent and loving relative she had ever had. Her mother had been the daughter of an English viscount though she had never met her mother’s side of the family she’d heard some heart-racing tales about the illustrious St. Martins. As he quickly shortened the distance between them her thoughts abandoned her. She was overtaken by him

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

6

sooner than she had expected. She grunted when he pulled her around. She slammed against his rock solid chest. Suddenly she was more than aware of the sensations that rolled between them. The friction of their two fabrics rubbing together made her mind reel. She needed to know who this man was. Why did he arouse such delicious feelings inside of her and why did she know the look in his blue eyes? She knew she knew him … but from where? The question that had been nagging her for quite some time now finally spilled out of her mouth. “Who are you?” “I Miss Caulfield am your worst nightmare.” **** Mallory St. Martin stared at the struggling hellcat he held captive in his arms. She began screaming and he freed one hand and pressed it against her mouth successfully smothering her screams. “You can scream all that you like Elizabeth but you will not bring anyone to your aid. I’ve effectively disposed of your father’s hired men and my men are re-supplying The Valiant as we speak. Anyone that wasn’t employed by your dear father has been bought off. They will care not whether you scream bloody murder or go quietly. I however would prefer it if you could manage to keep your lovely kissable lips sealed together.” He studied her once again and felt an unusual sensation course through him when her intense cognac colored eyes flashed with fire. He watched her for a moment and studied every facet of her beautiful face. She couldn’t remember him. He knew that by the distant expression in her luminescent eyes. But he remembered her well. He knew why she didn’t recognize him. He had looked very different when she had seen him last since they had been at a masquerade ball. He had also been using his native voice and accent which differed greatly from the raspy voice and rough sea-faring accent that he currently employed. The fire faded from her eyes only to be replaced by a carefully guarded expression. She became limp in his arms and stopped beating against him with her fists. Dropping her arms limply to her side she encouraged him to gingerly remove his hand from over her mouth. Her plump rose red lips were puckered into something resembling a sneer. She was trying desperately to seem like she hated him but there was something in her eyes and body language that told him otherwise. He felt certain that if she’d truly desired to escape from him she could have almost succeeded. She was a force to be reckoned with but then so was he. He would have eventually caught her but he would have at least enjoyed the chase. “I shall not scream again,” she muttered. Something flickered in her eyes and he smiled smugly when he recognized it for what it was. She didn’t desire to escape from him because she wanted to be seduced by him. Her mind might not yet recollect him but her body still knew him. She responded to him like no other woman ever had even when he threatened her in such a dire way. In truth he would no more cause her harm than he would hurt a member of his own family. He had no choice in the matter. He needed her money to save his family from ruination. His plundering as of late had been scarce even though his reputation hadn’t suffered in the slightest. Her father was a bastard of the first class and getting her away from his abusive presence was a service to her. He knew the wretched man wouldn’t last much longer as he already had one foot in the grave. One of these days Geoffrey Caulfield would shag himself to death. On that day Mallory would jump for joy. By that time he’d have Elizabeth safely in England and she’d be his wife. Then he could take her money and save his family. The St. Martins were an old blue-blooded noble family dating back to William the

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

7

Conqueror. Geoffrey Caulfield had had a hand in plucking his family’s coffers dry so in the end greedy Geoffrey would refill the St. Martin’s bank accounts with his own gold and money. It would be sweet justice and he knew that it would add years to his mother’s life. He had to take Elizabeth by brute force because he highly doubted that she would go with him willingly once she discovered his true intentions. Besides he couldn’t very well demand that she marry him and expect her to run away with him. He was charming and exceedingly handsome by society’s standards but even he couldn’t woo Elizabeth that quickly. He had two months left to acquire the necessary funds. He had already tried to plunder and loot his way to the bank but he’d narrowly escaped with his neck intact and the loot hadn’t turned out to be worth the trouble. Then he had considered gambling for the funds but that hadn’t worked out either. Elizabeth was most assuredly a better gambler than he was. So the only other option was marrying an heiress. But he couldn’t settle for any heiress. Oh no Mallory St. Martin had to set his eyes on the richest one of them all. Since desire flared in her eyes he would make sure that as soon as they set foot on English soil that she would be nearly begging him to make her an honest woman. And he’d make sure that on the road to ruination she’d take pleasure in each and every damnable step. “Shall you come with me willingly?” he inquired regretting the question as soon as he uttered it. “Rot in the fires of hell,” she shot back. Wrenching around in his grasp she kicked him in the shins. And she was off again. Will you never learn Mallory? He sped after her knocked over a few barrels and nearly collided with a flower cart. She was faster than she had been the last time. Maybe the full meaning of his intentions had finally soaked into her cunning brain. The spot where she had kicked him still smarted and he knew that he was swearing like a common street rat. He shouldn’t have expected anything less from a St. Martin no matter how distantly they were related. She had molten fire coursing through her blood. If she had reacted any differently he would have been appalled and genuinely worried. After all how would he be able to stand the voyage back with a shrew that acted like a true blue Caulfield? He came up upon her when she’d been cornered by two of his men. He gave them a look that told them to get back to work. Then he easily scooped her up into his arms. Her tantalizing bottom rubbed up against his abdomen and he had to grit his teeth to control the red-hot desire that pulsed through him. He was tempted to take her aboard The Valiant straight away and make sweet torturous love to her. He would have her screaming oh aye but she’d be screaming for more and begging him to kiss her again and again. “Let me go!” she cried thrashing out with all of the strength and energy that she could muster. She was a hellion of the worst sort. If he succeeded in getting her aboard The Valiant without losing an eye or having a popped kneecap then he’d be eternally grateful. He ducked when one of her swinging elbows made its way toward his head. “Christ’s teeth woman you are pushing me toward the brink!” She stilled for just a moment and then resumed her struggling. “Well, that’s bloody good for me!” Her voice was laced with hard-edged malice and he nearly dropped her at the intensity of it. To think that she was the same tame and timid creature he had fallen in love with at Lady Brighton’s masquerade ball. “I wouldn’t be saying that. In case you still haven’t figured out who I am then you will be discovering one of my identities in due course. And I will not be surprised if you faint dead

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

8

away.” “I have a strong constitution. I do not faint like so many of my sister women.” “Aye and I’m a bloody saint!” he snorted and then grunted when her elbow slammed into his gut. He stepped onto the plank leading up to The Valiant and caught the perceptive eye of his cook. “Welcome aboard Captain,” His cook said eyeing Elizabeth with inquiring eyes. He puffed on the pipe he held in his heads and silently sized Elizabeth up. “I take it that she’s the booty we came for?” Seamus Riley’s Limerick accent was thick and sometimes hard to understand but this time Mallory understood him completely. “Aye,” he answered earning a reprieve from Elizabeth’s magnificent struggles when she stopped to inspect the stupidly beaming Seamus. “You’re Irish,” she muttered seemingly perplexed. “Aye and you are a woman,” Seamus rebutted chuckling as he left the deck to go down into the galley. “Do you always speak so eloquently?” he asked as one of his men handed him some rope. He placed Elizabeth down on her feet and pulled her hands out in front of her. Her reticule still hung around her wrist. He slipped it off her wrist and tied her hands together. She was nearly spitting molten fire now and he was enjoying every moment of it. He dragged her down to her cabin. Pushing her into it he slammed the door and locked it. Tucking the key back into his pocket he opened the reticule and peered inside. Hells Bells but the woman confounded him. Nestled safely inside of her reticule was a lady’s pistol.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

9

Chapter Two Elizabeth paced the cabin restlessly. By the looks of things her blond Adonis’s men had already filled Captain Treacher’s cabin with their captain’s belongings. Blast the man! She had to find out what his Christian name was. Either that or she had to continue racking her tired brain for his identity. She knew she’d met him at some previous time and it was not as one of her father’s employees. All that she had to do was hit the nail on the head. You must think Elizabeth. Just think! Searching her mind she turned around to walk back down the length of the cabin again. She chewed on her lower lip and glanced down at the rope that was tied around her wrists. Arching her eyebrow she tried to fight against the bonds. She let out a shocked gasp when the ropes slithered away from her wrist at the slightest of tugs. “Well I’ll be damned!” Pitching the rope across the cabin she stalked toward the door. This time when she placed her hands on him she’d make sure that some bodily damage was done. She stopped mid-step and reached out with her extraordinarily perceptive hearing. Voices murmured right outside of the cabin. She recognized the one voice as her bloody kidnapper. The other voice however was one she did not recognize. “I hope she’s worth it Rafe.” The foreign voice said in a barely audible tone. “Oh she’s well worth it Ethan,” Rafe answered. So that was her captor’s name. “Rafe.” She rolled it over her tongue and it came out as the barest of whispers. She shrugged at the caress in her voice. Maybe in different circumstances she would have been willing to better acquaint herself with him. But as it was she had to reach Silverleigh. Unbeknownst to her father at the age of fifteen she had recruited her own spies and planted them at Silverleigh and at several of their other estates and plantations. Her spies had been ferreting information back to her these last eight years. In their little game of cat-and-mouse she’d been forced to hire her own spies as a mere survival strategy. Her father had put her through hell and back and she’d be damned if he’d rob her of the inheritance her mother had left her. She had them on both sides of the pond and on their scattering of estates in the Caribbean. They had supplied her with invaluable information over the years and she couldn’t make do without them. The last damning piece of information had reached her about a month ago. In the detailed missive her hired man had told her that her father’s health weakened with each passing day. The news hadn’t come as a surprise to her. Her father gorged himself on wine and rich food. And he bedded a different woman nearly every night. He was a pig of the foulest sort. She had to reach Silverleigh before he croaked it because if she didn’t she might not be there for the reading of the will. If she wasn’t present she couldn’t be assured that someone would not tamper with it. She lost interest in their conversation as Rafe had quickly changed subjects. He was a sharp man and he had probably guessed that she would be listening at the door. Ever so quietly she walked toward the door thanking God for blessing her with lightness of step. Extracting a pin from her hair she was about to slip it into the lock when she heard heavy footfalls approaching. Backing away hastily she slammed into an oak chest. “Bloody hell!” she cursed. The door swung open. In stalked her captor. Her arms were flailing about as she tried to keep herself from falling on her backside. Rafe reached out for her and caught her before she fell to the floor. “Don’t think I’m going to thank you.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

10

She pulled away from him and served him with her best glare. It had always served to intimidate everyone else that she knew and yet he stared back at her with a neutral expression on his face. Then to gall her even further he chuckled. The throatiness of it caressed her and in some weird way it appeased her. Crossing her arms over her chest she stared up at him through half lowered lashes. “‘Course you wouldn’t thank me. Because then I’d start thinking you were a proper young lady.” She bristled even more at his sarcastic remark. He still held one hand behind his back and when he held it out toward her her breath caught in her throat. She reached eagerly for her pink reticule but at the last moment he pulled it out of her reach. “You needn’t seem too eager,” he whispered, his voice at a dead calm. “I have taken the liberty of extracting your pistol. What bothers me though is why you didn’t choose to use it on me before.” Uneasily she looked away from his penetrating gaze and scraped the toe of her traveling boot against the floor. “If you give it to me I’ll use it now.” He chuckled again but this time it snowballed into full out laughter. His laughter boomed out around her filling the intimate space. She huffed out a large gust of air and took a voluntary step toward him. “Pray hand over my reticule. I don’t give a fig where you stuffed that pistol. I don’t need it. I’ll get away from you without it.” His eyes gleamed at that remark and he stopped laughing. “I can assure you Elizabeth that there is nowhere you can run to that will hide you from me. I’m like a bloodhound and I have caught your scent. You need never fear that I shall ever forget it!” His fervent declaration made her heart begin pounding against her ribcage. It thundered so loudly that she feared he might hear it. She’d had many suitors but there had only been one man other than Rafe that had affected her so deeply. She had danced with him several times at a masquerade ball. She searched her memory for the hostess’s name. All that she could see in her mind’s eye was a plump matronly woman with a crown of graying hair. Shame flooded her eyes as she remembered what that delicious man had brought her to the brink of that night. She had not even known his name and yet she had acted wantonly with him. She had allowed him to lead her out to the estates maze. They had lost themselves within and he had begun making ardent love to her. But he hadn’t been the only one participating in the ravishing. She had responded in kind and had become more alive in his arms than she had ever felt. He was just about to take her maidenly honor when another amorous couple had rudely interrupted them. Unfortunately the man in the couple had been a friend of her father’s. She had been hauled out of the maze and she had never laid eyes on her mystery lover again. She sighed mournfully and then stared up at Rafe. He gazed at her in the most unusual way. He seemed about to gobble her up with his eyes. Swallowing thickly, she gestured toward her reticule. “Might I please have it?” She yearned to fold her hands around the reticule. Inside rested one of her most cherished possessions. “You my dear are very fortunate that you resemble your mother. Though I daresay Miss Susan resembled her mother’s side of the family.” “How do you know so many intimate details of my life?” she demanded. Crossing the

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

11

short distance to him she managed to rip the reticule from his lax grip. “I’ve studied you and your family well. You might say that I know your mother’s side of the family as well as I know the back of my hand.” “You sir are a dirty rotten bastard.” “Well shall we put another notch on the wall for colorful insults thrown at me?” he extended his hand toward her and gently tilted her face up so that he could look at her straight in the eyes. “Why are those tears glimmering in your eyes?” his question was spoken in a soft and almost tender voice. She jerked her chin out of his gentle hold and took an involuntary step backward. “You have brought sentimental memories to the forefront of my mind. Pray do not flatter yourself you were not the instigator of my tears.” She grimaced as one large tear escaped its watery prison. She quickly reached her hand up to brush it away but she was too late for he beat her too it. “I should bloody well hope not!” He turned away from her and folded his hands behind his back. “You shall occupy the cabin next to this one. I can see that it was built and decorated with you in mind. Far be it for me to get in the way of your comfort. I am well aware that you are accustomed to being pampered.” “Yes I’ve always been lavished with untold riches.” Her voice was flat and he turned around to toss a curious expression at her. “Many would be delighted to be in your boots,” he murmured staring down at her feet. “Do you not think that I am grateful for the life that I have? Well I am!” She lifted her chin proudly. “After all who wouldn’t want to be the daughter of a man that took cruel pleasure in other’s suffering? And who wouldn’t want to be a girl alone in the world without one true friend? You needn’t fear I know that I am blessed with my rather gargantuan wealth. If only that had been reflected in the amount of love I receive from family. The last person to say they loved me was my mother. And she has been in the ground for over nine years. So you needn’t lecture me sir. I know what is important in life!” **** Mallory had experienced the ferocity of Elizabeth’s passion once before but never had he seen her so inspired. Her eyes flashed with untold fire and her face was glowing like that of an angel. He yearned to gather her into his arms. But he had time to lure her into his bed. He just had to make sure that he cajoled her into his bed before they reached the shores of England. “If you would come with me I shall escort you to your cabin.” He gallantly offered her his arm. “Do not get any foolish ideas in that pretty little head of yours. We have already left Chesapeake Bay. You will find yourself overboard in the ocean if you try to flee from me. I’d warrant the sharks would find you to be a tasty morsel.” He almost grinned at the shudder that passed through her. “You may be assured that I will not be as idiotic as to try and throw myself into the sea. I do possess a brain.” “Aye I know that. It’s your possession of a heart that I’m worried about.” She served him with a pinched expression and damn it all he nearly laughed. **** “Rafe you are the one that requires the donation of a heart.” Even though she’d muttered her insult beneath her breath she could see by his body language that he had indeed heard her. Fear rippled through her. She didn’t know if she feared his touch … or what she would feel when he touched her.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

12

**** Mallory stopped abruptly and turned to gaze down at her in disbelief. He would be sure to watch his step around her from now on for he had not banked on the keen intelligence that she obviously possessed. “You my dear should be an agent in His Majesty’s Secret Service.” His tone was dry and held the slightest irritation. He had hoped to be able to reveal his true identity to her in due course. In the meantime he’d allow her to call him Jack. Jonathan was one of his many given names and some of his chums in England had come up with the nickname. His family however always called him Mallory. And that was how he wanted it. Having various identities was a feather in his cap. He could distance himself from the people that he didn’t care about and when he returned to England he could assume the identity of a penniless Duke. “Are you named after the Archangel Raphael?” Her voice was soft and without a hint of malice. Swallowing thickly he sighed. She turned her head to stare inquiringly up at him. As much as he wanted to he couldn’t stay annoyed at her for very long. “You could say that,” He murmured smiling lazily. On the High Seas he was known as Captain Morgan. Usually his men called him Captain Morgan. It was only Ethan that took the liberty of calling him Rafe and to Ethan it was an inside joke. “Oh really. How astonishing. I would have called you the Lord of Darkness.” Her well-placed jibe hit a raw nerve and he nearly grabbed a hold of her. But if he did he’d soon have his hands all over her bringing her to the edge of ecstasy. No she deserved much more than that. He would make sure that he tortured her first before she reached that highest of peaks. And he’d enjoy every single moment of it. They walked to the cabin in an uneasy silence. He glanced down at her a few times and decided that her implacable expression was really too much to bear. Her face was screwed up so tightly that he feared it might just crack. “You will find that whatever you need has been deposited into your cabin.” “You are too kind,” she snapped. Her words were quick and stung him to his very core. “I know. Because if I wasn’t such a generous soul I’d make you stay in my cabin and in my bed.” He dazzled her with his best attempt at a wolfish smile. That shut her up. She clamped her mouth closed and thinned her lips into an unreadable line. Then she laughed carelessly. The sultriness of it nearly brought him to his knees. He was becoming hard just hearing it. He needed to get away from her before he ruined his master plan. She was just about to say something when he none too politely slammed the door in her face. What she didn’t know was that Captain Treacher had spilled everything about the ship. Treacher had even told him about the secret doorway that linked the captain’s cabin to Elizabeth’s cabin. Treacher had sworn that he had never used it while Elizabeth was aboard but the man was married and he and his wife preferred to Inhabit separate sleeping areas. Though as Treacher had described it a man and a wife did have to have nighttime dalliances every so often. Mallory would take full advantage of the knowledge at his disposal. When the time came he would pay Elizabeth a nighttime visit and he would show her that he was definitely the man of her dreams.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

13

Chapter Three Elizabeth collapsed wearily onto the small writing chair that sat in front of her rosewood desk. The cabin lacked no extravagance. Everything was as she had it in any of her other private abodes except on a much smaller scale. She slowly unbuttoned her pink pelisse and tossed it on the bed. Sighing she reached for her reticule which lay on her desk. Opening it she produced her most treasured possession. She stared wistfully down at the miniature portrait that she held in her hands. She glanced at the image of herself at seven years of age and then her mother’s heart-shaped face. “Oh how I need your sage advice,” she murmured brushing her fingertip tenderly across the face of her mother. Sighing heavily once again she placed the portrait on her small bedside table. Slowly she stood up and arched her back. Her eyelids were drooping and she knew that she would collapse soon if she did not take care. She began singing a tune that she had written during the years of her private musical training. Her music master had been delighted and impressed by the depth of her talent. He had told her that she could have been a great operatic singer. But alas she had not been destined for a life on the stage. Her rich smooth voice filled the cabin and calmed her nerves. If she had had a pianoforte or violin she would have been in heaven. The ship lurched beneath her again causing her to fall against the bedpost. She could feel the familiar signs of nausea overtaking her as it always did at the beginning of a sea voyage. She broke off her song in the middle of a verse and sank down onto the oak chest at the end of the bed. Breathing deeply she tried to will away the sickness that boiled in her stomach. Her hands were clammy and her forehead raged with heat. Shaking her head she stood up again on wobbly knees. She had never been a sea-faring creature. She far preferred the solid ground beneath her feet to the rocking of a ship even if that ship happened to belong to her. Grimacing she placed her hand over her stomach and searched for a bucket. When her search turned out to be in vain she drew in a shuddering breath and hobbled toward the door. Plucking up her almost shattered stamina she rapped soundly on the door to gain someone’s attention. In less than two minutes it was unlocked and wrenched open. She stared at Rafe and nearly smiled at the ludicrous expression he wore. But presently she was unable to smile for fear of losing her noon-time tea. “If you know what is good for you you will move and allow me up to the deck.” She didn’t know how she managed to speak without retching all over him. He must have taken in her nearly puce face for he stood aside and then pursued her as she raced up to the deck. She made her way past a few sailors to the rail. What happened next was not at all dignified or lady like. She had never been able to handle rough waters. During the ocean crossing she normally stayed holed up in her cabin while in the throes of misery. She wasn’t always seasick but she did normally have terrible headaches that made her head feel as if it was about to explode. She chanced a glance out of the corner of her eye and watched as Rafe came up behind her. Stiffening with apprehension she was not ready for the soothing cool touch that he pressed to the nape of her neck. He handed her a teacup filled with water. She drank it down thirstily and thankfully accepted the handkerchief that he offered her.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

14

“Breathe in the fresh salty air,” he murmured. She looked up at the white masts waving in the strong wind. “You needn’t worry. If fair winds are willing we shall be in English waters in no time at all.” Elizabeth began to relax and stared up at the setting sun. Multiple colors swirled on the horizon and the big fluffy clouds were dancing merrily in the bright blue sky. The strong waves rocked against The Valiant. “Your father has a fine ship in The Valiant.” Rafe whispered. Unconsciously she leaned against him. “You are mistaken sir. I have a fine ship in The Valiant. In fact most of the fleet belongs to me. The ships were a gift given to me on my sixteenth birthday.” “I daresay that is a grand gift.” “Aye. But my father thought it to be a brilliant jest. You may have already surmised that I do not care for traveling the high seas.” She looked to see if he would have mockery dancing in his blue orbs but to her complete bafflement he was staring at her solemnly and waiting for her to elaborate. “My own dear sister does not care for life on the water. But then she fancies horse racing so it is probably just as well. Sometimes life as a sailor can be treacherous and tedious. If the wind does not blow in your favor all is lost.” She smiled wanly and found that she was beginning to forget about her churning stomach. He was distracting her on purpose to be sure but she did not mind one bit. Something made her lift her eyes skyward toward the ship’s flag. Gasping she pointed horror stricken at the abominable black-and-white flag that blew in the wind. “Take that down at once!” she ordered. Strangely enough she gradually returned to her normal self. His eyes danced at her but he remained unusually silent. “That is forbidden!” She glared at him but he was not swayed in the slightest. “That flag my dear is my own.” He flashed his pearly white teeth at her and made her want to deck him one. “If the Royal Navy or American Navy caught us with that blasphemous contraption flying in the wind you would all be hanged.” “They’d have to catch me first. And besides we are nearly out of American waters. Not only that but they’d be hard pressed to go up against my ships.” He waved his hand carelessly to the horizon. Then she finally noticed the ships that sailed around them. She had been too preoccupied with thoughts of her sour stomach to pay much heed to anything else. “God Almighty,” she gasped pressing her hand to her cheek. Each and every one of the ships was pirate outfitted. Gun cannons lined every inch of the ships and made them ever ready for a rip-roaring sea battle. Most of them had either belonged to the British Navy or the American Navy at one point in time. “You stole not only my ship but those as well!” She couldn’t believe her own eyes. He was a thief of the foulest sort. “Actually I didn’t. All of those ships were purchased with my own coin. But they are pirates ships now and not suitable for resale.” He chuckled dryly and for some reason it sent an unusual shiver coursing through her. What was wrong with her? She shouldn’t be attracted to such a devious sort but she couldn’t seem to help herself. The only way she was going to survive him was to flee from him as soon as possible.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

15

“I highly doubt that you paid for those ships. You are not an honorable man. You did after all steal my own vessel.” “I didn’t so much as steal it as I commandeered it.” “Is that what you’re doing with me?” Glaring at him she roughly shoved the teacup back into his hands. “Are you commandeering me?” Fury soon overtook the churning in her stomach. “No I’m kidnapping you.” “For what purpose? If you want a ransom then I’ll obtain it for you when we reach England. I’m sure that you’d be more than willing to take me to the banks in London.” “Actually I haven’t taken you captive for the ransom though I daresay the reward would benefit me greatly. However it wouldn’t be nearly enough.” “I would make you a rich man.” “Yes but I wouldn’t be a happy man.” he countered pinning her with those intense blue eyes of his. “What I have in mind will bring me happiness both monetary and emotionally.” “And what pray tell do you have in mind?” “I’m going to force you to marry me.” She laughed at first believing him to be in jest. But her laugh gradually died away when she looked at his deadpan expression. “You must be fooling with me.” She stepped back from him and slammed against the rail. “I have never been more serious about anything in my life. As soon as we reach England I will obtain a special license and you shall become my bride.” “Don’t flatter yourself. I’d sooner marry a fool than marry you.” “You won’t have a choice in the matter. In fact I daresay that you’ll be throwing yourself at my feet and begging me to marry you.” “I, sir, do not beg. Never have, never will!” She folded her arms and stamped past him. “Where pray tell do you think you’re going?” “Down to my cabin. As long as that meets with your approval.” “It most certainly does. I think I will accompany you. I’ve suddenly become rather hungry.” His devilishly entrancing eyes bored straight down into her being. “I do not want any food.” “Oh I wasn’t referring to food,” he said grazing her body with his passion filled eyes. Her heart began beating erratically as he reached for her arm. She stared up at him with wide eyes. “Don’t look at me like that,” his voice was sharp. “After all you said yourself that I was not an honorable man. So why should I treat you like an honorable man would?” **** Mallory did not like the troubling silence that followed his empty threat. He kept staring down at Elizabeth expecting her to retort with some clever and cutting reply. But she merely kept her head downcast and walked obediently by his side. He didn’t like this side of her. It made her seem more dangerous than when she was hissing and spitting at him like a wild cat. He pushed the door of her cabin open and waved her inside. Once inside she moved straight over to the bed and plopped herself down upon it. She stared up at him and puckered her lips waiting for him to kiss her. He frowned and instead swaggered over to the dining table. He took a long hard look at her as he sprawled into a chair. After a few moments she opened up her tightly squeezed eyes and turned to look at him. She

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

16

tilted her head obviously trying to figure out what he was up to. “I thought perhaps that I would have a talk with you first,” he murmured. “I wouldn’t want it all to happen so quickly that I’d make your head spin.” Her nostrils flared angrily and he knew that he was slowly goading her to go into one of her fits. Crossing her hands demurely in her lap she turned her gaze away from him and stared at the wall. Flexing her fingers he watched the determined glint enter her eye. Obviously she was intent upon giving him the silent treatment. “Come over here and join me,” he invited watching avidly as she bit on her lower lip. His voice had dropped and he knew that the huskiness of it had to be affecting her. “You have a beautiful singing voice why don’t you grace me with it?” Again she stared stiffly ahead as if someone had suddenly turned her into a prudish old spinster. “I could show you a world of pleasure.” His voice was laced with promise and he could see by the way that her shoulders slumped that she was slowly giving in. “I did not sing for you,” she snapped whirling her body around to face him. “Ah more is the pity.” “If you are going to forcefully ravish me then you had best get to it. And while you sleep I shall smother you.” “I confess that I shall never tire of your fiery passion.” Smiling he winked playfully at her. That did it. She was over the edge. She bounded across the small space and was lunging for him when he caught her. Their mouths were so close that he could easily claim her ripened lips. But he knew as soon as he kissed her she would recognize him. The night of the masquerade he’d been sporting a full-grown beard and the mask that he’d been wearing had shadowed his eyes. He also had been in his full pirate regalia. He knew in that guise he looked very different from his normal persona. In fact he highly doubted that his own mama would be able to recognize him. As soon as he kissed Elizabeth he would betray himself. Her memory would be jolted and there would be no returning from what he had caused. Her breath came in short, rapid gasps and he yearned to kiss her. This was the greatest test in self-control that he had ever had to conquer. Instead, he kissed her lightly on the tip of her perky freckle spotted nose. One curly strand of her blue-black hair slipped down and fell across her forehead. He brushed it away and felt electricity race through him as he touched her creamy white skin. “You shall most certainly be the death of me.” “May I have your word on that?” Her fiery cognac eyes twinkled, the fight drained from her body. He released her but kept a wary eye on her. She fell into the chair across from him and stared at him in expectation. “I should have thought that you’d already be on top of me.” “Then you thought wrong.” He reached inside of his jacket and caught the flicker of fear in her eyes. Bless her heart. She actually believed that he was still going to hurt her. He smiled reassuringly at her and plunked the deck of cards on the table in front of her. She looked down at the cards and then stared back up at him a question shining in her eyes. “What do you propose to do with those?” “I propose that you teach me how to use these to my advantage.” She furrowed her brows still not certain of what he meant. “I beg your pardon?” “You miss are a most formidable gambler. Do not deny it.” She licked her lips and then looked disheartened to have been so easily figured out. “Teach me how to win.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

17

“If I do shall you leave me in peace this night?” “If I feel like it,” he drawled out. She peered at him intently let out a long shuddering sigh and reached out for the cards. She began shuffling them and then stared up at him. “What shall we be betting on?” There was a hopeful glint in her eye that made him wary. Obviously she sought to surprise him by duping him into an unwise gambit. “Do not think that you shall trick me into that. If you teach me and take my mind off of seducing you then you’ll keep me out of your bed for another night. But have heart dearest for we shall not be betting on anything for I would surely lose.” Sighing she stared at him. “You sir take all of the excitement out of the room.” “If you are craving excitement I could show you pleasures that you have only dreamt about. I could suggest another game but then that game would involve tearing off your clothes. So what’s your poison? Shall it be cards or lustful ravishing? She groaned and looked away from his searing gaze. Her face was flushed and she fanned herself with her hand before casting her luminous eyes back on him. “What game do you wish to learn?” “I wish to learn the game you are playing.” He knew that she was hiding something and before the night was out he would have it all out of her. Her eyes darkened and then returned to their normal color. She was pretending to not know what he was hinting at even though her foot was tapping restlessly on the floor. “Whist it is.” She concluded cutting the cards.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

18

Chapter Four “You do realize this is highly unusual to be playing without a partner and with only one deck of cards do you not?” She eyed him warily as she tried to discern his motives for forcing her to teach him whist. She was partial to almost any card or dice game and had even dabbled in the ancient ancestor of Whist known as Ruff and Honors. His gorgeous blue eyes dazzled as he reached for his thirteen cards. “Course.” She flipped the last card up indicating the trick that they would be playing. “Besides,” he continued “one day you shall be my gaming partner and I shall be assured of never losing. With your luck and quick wit I’d be hard pressed to lose.” His compliment spoken so easily sent a blush racing to her cheeks. “We could always play piquet or vingt et un,” she remarked furrowing her brow. She didn’t really want to play any game with him as she based most of her playing skill on chance intuition and dumb luck rather than on a certain winning strategy. “And if you have a set of dice in your pocket we could always go for a friendly game of hazard.” “If whist is your favorite choice then whist it is,” he pressed smiling broadly at her. “Besides it is a game filled with tricks much as you are.” She let out a loud and prolonged sigh. “And as to becoming your partner you sir are under a severe misapprehension. I shall not be your gaming partner or your partner in marriage so you may remove that stupid idea from your …,” she trailed off as The Valiant rocked and sent her careening to the floor. Rafe flung himself at her as the ship bucked again and broke her fall. She landed sprawled on top of him in a most undignified manner. The loud racket of cannon fire shattered the stillness of the night. She gasped as he placed his hands around her narrow waist. Her heaving breasts were naught but two inches away from his face and they were in danger of falling out. She protectively placed her hands over her bosom and grunted when he helped her to her feet. He stared over at the fallen furniture and the deck of cards that were strewn about. “Seems as if we’ll be playing a game of pick up fifty two later on,” he muttered. Straightening his jacket he reached for his greatcoat that had fallen with his chair to the floor. “Allow me to accompany you,” she urged. Another ear splitting blast rang through the night. By the sounds of it the cannonball had narrowly missed them. “Certainly not. You will remain here where you are safe.” “And what will your conscience do if I am blown to smithereens?” “It shall not happen. Whether you want to believe it or not I am rather proficient when it comes to sea battles as are my men.” “Why would I believe that?” “Because I was at Waterloo,” he shot back stunning her into silence. He didn’t slam the cabin door this time. Instead he quietly closed it. She stared at the door for a long moment and wondered why he had revealed that part of his life to her. She pressed her hand to her stomach and tried to figure out why it was no longer rolling even when the ship was rocking to and fro. Drat the man he had to have put a tonic into the water that she had gulped down. A slow smile broke her frown. She rummaged inside of her chest for a cloak thick enough to protect her from the nightly chill. She glanced toward the wall that connected her cabin to Rafe’s and shrugged her shoulders. She knew he wasn’t anywhere in

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

19

the vicinity so he could not stop what she was about to undertake. She dashed to the locked door and slipped a pin from her hair. Within seconds she heard the lock slide back. He did not know anything about her. If he did he’d have tied her up before he left the cabin. She staggered out into the corridor and quickly made her way up the steps to the deck. It was teeming with hands and she spotted Rafe at once. He was helping some man back to his feet. She concluded that it was the aforesaid Ethan when the man slapped Rafe familiarly on the back. A squall of monumental proportions was working itself up and a haunting melody was being carried on the bustling wind. She pushed her way past several people and then the ship lurched again. She skidded down the ship straight toward Rafe. He caught her in his arms and scowled down at her. He was livid. He kept a protective arm around her shoulder. She looked out into the darkness but could see nothing through the thick mists that had suddenly draped across the seascape. “Who are the fiends that are attacking us?” she asked breathlessly as he snorted loudly. “No one anymore. We made short work of them. They were a band of enemy pirates. And let me tell you if I didn’t have my armada traveling with me they could have almost given us a run for our money.” “Thank God for simple blessings.” “Aye though I’d warrant that I would have won either way. Because even though I may do very poorly at the gaming tables I never lose when there is a true battle to be fought. That is why you must give up on your dreams of escaping me.” His eyes had darkened to a steely cobalt blue and both of his hands now gripped her shoulders tightly. The man that was presumably Ethan came up behind Rafe. She had up until now only been afforded views of Ethan’s back. But as moonlight filtered across the ship it danced across the man’s features. She let out a horrified gasp as Ethan’s face was revealed to her curious eyes. Blood began rushing to her head and her ears began ringing. She was blacking out. She could feel it careening to consume her. She finally succumbed to the shock and fainted dead away in Rafe’s arms. Mallory gathered Elizabeth up into his arms and her head flopped against his chest. “Is she still breathing?” Ethan asked reaching out to touch her shoulder. “Yes thank God!” Mallory muttered as the heavens opened up and began pouring ran down upon them. “I have to get her out of this frightful weather. I trust you and the rest of the crew will be able to make do without me?” “Certainly. Just make sure that she recovers her health.” Mallory began walking in the direction of the cabin area and then stopped suddenly. Turning back he stared at Ethan curiously and felt a question on the tip of his tongue. “Before you go any further I know what you want to ask,” Ethan held up his hand beckoning for silence. “I knew Elizabeth’s mother at one point in time. After Susan’s rather mysterious death I went back to America to spill Geoffrey’s guts. When I arrived in Baltimore I headed for Silverleigh to finish him off once and for all. Unfortunately the wound I gave him didn’t kill him. Mores the pity for I so did want to send him to the very devil himself.” “And why was Elizabeth so shocked to see your face?” “Because she helped me to escape after I ran her father through with my cutlass.” “She’s a remarkable woman,” Mallory murmured. He glanced down at the raven haired angel he held in his arms and a tender smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “When are you going to tell her who you really are?”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

20

“Oh I’ll get around to telling her in due course.” “And what is your definition of in due course?” “Well that would be right before we exchange our wedding vows.” “Rafe you can’t be serious.” “Oh but I haven’t been so serious about anything else in my life.” “Watch Miss Elizabeth like a hawk.” Ethan advised wisely. “She was but an innocent lass when she helped me. But she’s not a child anymore.” “I know that better than you do.” Mallory retorted groaning as Elizabeth muttered in her unconscious state. “You’d best get a move on and whisk her out of these frightful elements. We’re in for one hell of a storm.” “The rain and wind will be nothing compared to what Elizabeth will barrage me with when she wakes up.” “God be with you my son,” Ethan quipped. Mallory was just about to serve him with a rude retort when the rain began pelting down heavier than it had been just seconds before. He cradled Elizabeth against his chest and almost lost his footing on the slick deck. With the added weight he almost did go clattering to the ground but he managed to keep himself upright. He stared at the cabin door that remained ajar. Obviously Elizabeth had forgotten to shut it behind her. Now that he could add picking locks to her already long repertoire he wondered what else he could expect from her. She was hot-blooded and had a barbed tongue but he felt quite certain that she was as innocent as she had been on the night of the ball. But nearly ten years had passed. And she had matured from a wistful forlorn girl into a powerful passionate woman. She was far ahead of her times for she did not balk at anything he threw her way. Perhaps that was why she intrigued him so much. Her beauty had not been changed from when she had been but a young ingénue and yet so much more about her had. He wished that she would remember him but he knew that for her their love tryst must seem like a lifetime ago. **** As he walked over the cabin threshold Elizabeth flickered one eye open and then closed it again. He gently placed her on the bed as she wisely continued to feign unconsciousness. His touch made her tingle all over and fireworks coursed through her skin whenever he drew her close to him. He made her feel safe which was a contradiction onto itself. He was her kidnapper. In all reality she should be fleeing from him in terror and recoiling whenever he was near. But he was beginning to affect her. She was becoming fond of him. Her heart danced when he was near and she found that she was disappointed when he left her side. And in her eyes he had just endeared himself to her for he had caught her when she had fainted. She still couldn’t believe that she had shown such blatant weakness in front of him. She’d never again faint for as long as she lived. Seeing Ethan Foyle had nearly made her lose her wits. Suddenly instead of seeing his face she had seen the face of her mother’s lover. Her mother had tried to keep her affair with Ethan discreet but somehow the gossipmongers had finally betrayed her. When her father had discovered the affair he had been infuriated. He had told her mother that she was a scheming whore. Her mother had finally had enough of Geoffrey. She had told him that she was taking the first available ship back to England. Geoffrey had wished her the best of luck considering the violent war that was being waged across Europe. Then her mother had propelled her father over the edge when she had informed him that she would be taking Elizabeth. They would live in

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

21

seclusion with The St. Martin’s and all would be well. Her mother had protected her from her father’s following displeasure. There had been so many times that Elizabeth had feared her father would finally succeed in killing her mother. And then he had. Elizabeth could clearly remember the night of her mother’s death. Her mother had told her to scamper upstairs to bed. She had done so and had waited for her mother to come and kiss her good night. But she had never come. So Elizabeth had tiptoed down the stairs only to find her mother lying dead at the bottom of them. The shock of her mother’s death had driven Elizabeth to the brink of despair. Her father had not known what to do with her and had quickly shuffled her off to be with her nannies. Then Ethan had returned. He had been incensed to learn that her mother was dead. He had confronted Geoffrey and had nearly killed him when she had intervened. Her untimely interruption had kept Ethan from doing away with Geoffrey. She had screamed and quickly gathering her composure she had shown Ethan a hidden route that would lead him safely away from Silverleigh. Her thoughts were jolted back to the present when she felt the soft pad of Rafe’s hand caress the side of her cheek. Then the tip of his finger brushed her plump lips. She could feel him coming down to meet her lips. Concentrating on remaining motionless she eagerly awaited his first kiss. Every fiber in her being strained and she wished with all of her might that he would just kiss her. Then his lips brushed hers ever so slightly making a pleasant shudder course through her. She blinked her eyelids open and stared him squarely in the eyes. His eyes widened to monumental proportions and he quickly broke the kiss. Feeling cheated she formed her lips into a pout. His weight still rested on the bed and he had an arm draped on either side of her. His heat was pressing in on her and since she was such a highly intuitive creature she could feel him in front of her beside her and all around her. His powerful presence engulfed the room. Yet she was not intimidated in the slightest. She waited patiently for him to lower his lips to hers once more. She was hungry for his kiss and hungry for his touch. She was a woman with needs and she hadn’t allowed a man to touch her for ten years. She had believed that no one could compare to the man that she had met at the Masquerade Ball but now that she had met Rafe she wasn’t so certain. He bewitched bewildered and bothered her to no end. Rafe by-passed her lips and lowered his mouth to nuzzle her neck instead. She writhed beneath him as pleasure rolled through her. All that he needed to do was touch her to elicit the most beautiful sensations that she had ever felt. She raised her arms to wrap them around him and pull him close. He kissed the swell of her breasts and was about to investigate further when she raised her hand to caress the side of his stubbly face. “Oh Rafe!” she murmured. He jerked away from her and sat up panting heavily. Somehow she had broken the spell just by murmuring his name. A mixed look of anger and agony flashed across his face. “I’m sorry. I do not know what came over me.” She watched as he raked his hands through his tousled hair. He looked like he had been to hell and back. “I promised that I would leave you alone this night. And contrary to what you believe I am a man of my word.” He stood up and moved toward the door. Before she knew what was happening to her she spoke from her heart. “Stay with me!” Her words came out sounding like a desperate plea. He halted stood motionless for the barest of seconds and ever so slowly turned around to gaze intently at her.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

22

“Is that truly what you desire?” he asked. His eyes twinkled and she felt her heart flip flop. She was a full-grown woman. She knew what she wanted and what she didn’t want. And right now she wanted Captain Rafe Morgan. “Oh yes,” she murmured breathlessly. In a flash he shrugged out of his greatcoat and threw it across the cabin. Then he walked toward her as if he was the God of Seduction himself.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

23

Chapter Five He knew that he’d regret whatever passed between them in the morning. And yet he wanted to take her sweet body into his arms and treat her like a queen until morning. But he couldn’t. On the night of the masquerade they had both been considerably younger and he had been stupider than she. At that point in time he had not been a penniless duke but the second son who had a full future set before him. He’d been cocky and arrogant when it came to pretty young ladies and well honestly Elizabeth had been the prettiest in the room even with her faerie mask covering the top part of her face. She had melted in his arms and when he had suggested they go out to the maze to as he had put it become closer she had eagerly agreed. In hindsight he knew that it was a blessing in disguise that they had been discovered together. He hadn’t even known she was an heiress when he had fallen in love with her for he hadn’t cared for such things at that point in time. He didn’t need to worry because his father had still been a wealthy well-respected duke and his older brother Matthew had been groomed to become the eighth Duke of Haverston. He often wondered how one man’s life could change so drastically in an instant. He still remembered the fateful day that had brought him to his knees and had changed his life forever. His brother Matthew had been the Captain of the HMS Victory but his ship had not claimed victory at Waterloo. They had instead gone down with all hands. Mallory had been forced to carry on with the battle while watching his brother’s ship burn in the distance. He had prayed to God over and over again that his brother would have been spared. But deep in his heart he knew that as Captain Matthew would not be coming back to serve him with his cheeky smile. Heartbroken Mallory had returned to Cornwall only to find that his father had taken ill and had passed away on the day after Waterloo. Along with his mother and six sisters they had tried to make sense of what had happened to them. And then the final blow had come when it was discovered that his father had lost all of his riches by way of a bloody card game. Saddled with inconceivable debts Mallory and his mother had attempted to sort out their finances. But they could do nothing. Selling their ancestral lands was against the question so Mallory had set off to sea to try and earn back the money needed. Becoming a privateer for Elizabeth’s father had happened by chance rather than by a deliberate act. Geoffrey Caulfield was a liar and a cheat. He never paid Mallory what was his due and when Mallory discovered Caulfield’s hand in his family’s ruination he had been bent on revenge. Fortunately Ethan and he had met in pub in Portsmouth and Ethan had advised him against seeking retribution against Caulfield directly. So Mallory had done the next sensible thing he had decided to use Elizabeth against her father. He had fallen into becoming a pirate more out of necessity than desire. But he was an excellent strategist and fighter and his brawny iron clad will was revered throughout the High Seas. He was a legend in his own right one that would endure until his dying day. Alas there had been a hitch in his clever plan for revenge against Geoffrey. As soon as he had set sights on Elizabeth he had known that she had been the woman of his heart. As a result he’d changed the plan to the one that it was now. Besides ruining her and leaving her was not in his nature as a gentleman. On the other hand ruining and marrying her was in his nature. He knew deep in his heart he needn’t feel so guilty yet why did he? He would never mistreat Elizabeth. And it wasn’t as if he were the only one gaining through their alliance. She would be

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

24

gaining a title and the respect of many. Why the St. Martin’s had held a place at the Royal Court for centuries. They were a politically savvy family and had made it through years of turbulence and change. If Caulfield thought that he could destroy such a legacy with his petty attempts then he was sorely mistaken. He stared over at Elizabeth eagerly awaiting him. He wanted to cover her body with his mouth and take her to the peak of ecstasy. He felt himself readying for the seduction and yet his mind battled against his body. The storm outside had died down and the ship was now nearly calm in the water. But as the storm had gradually faded away outside it had begun to burn brilliantly inside. He undid the first few buttons on his shirt and sat down on the bed so that his body pressed up against hers. He frowned when he noticed the trust glinting in her eyes. Swallowing thickly he reached for one of her hands. She sat up and he finally noticed the signs of exhaustion that lined her features. He brought her hand up and gently kissed it. Unwilling to release it he clasped it even tighter. He could not make love to her this night. Why she seemed quite fagged. When he finally claimed her as his own he wanted her wide awake and fully aware of everything that passed between them. As if she could sense his thoughts her eyes flared with something resembling anger. Impulsively he pulled her to him and held her against his chest. He had to confess and tell her everything. She grew limp in his arms and snuggled in even deeper. Trustingly she wrapped herself around him. A few minutes passed in complete silence while he gently caressed her back. Moving his hands upward he removed the pins from her hair. He was not prepared for the shining glory that cascaded down her back. Her hair felt like silk and weighed like velvet. Its sheen nearly took his breath away. He tenderly stroked his fingers through the mass of loose curls. They weren’t ringlets and yet there was no doubting that her hair was curly. He heard a faint moan and lost himself in the tranquil moment. For here and now his world was tilting toward perfection. He would marry Elizabeth. Now more than ever there was no doubt in his mind. And even if he found out tomorrow that she was as penniless as he, he would still vie for her hand. She was the greatest treasure of all. He smiled when he heard her even breathing. At least she was not angered with him or frightened of him. He kissed the crown of her head and then exerted all of his self-control to keep from moving downward. Oh how he wanted to spend the night with her. He pulled away from her and cradled her in his arms. Intent on pressing a chaste kiss to her mouth he was surprised at the strength of his resolve to leave her in peace. He gazed down into her face and smiled wistfully. She had succumbed to dreamland. And he could only pray that she dreamt of him for one day soon he would be the only man she would ever think of. **** Elizabeth drifted toward paradise. She reached out straining her fingertips toward the man that was dressed as a Faerie Prince. Another dancer collided with her and sent her hurtling into the crowd that lined the dance floor. She could not find him. He was lost in amongst the faces that now seemed to blur together. Hot tears streamed down her face and she quickly wiped them away with the back of her gloved hand. She tried to step forward and slammed into a hard man’s body. She bounced off of him and nearly fell to her backside when he stretched out a steadying hand. The man now wore a Pirate’s costume. Her breath caught in her throat as her eyes roamed up his body. His tight black breeches clung to his muscular legs. A bright red sash was tied at his waist and he was wearing a loose silk white shirt. He wore no cravat for such restrictions would seem

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

25

out of place for such a wild and free spirit. But as her eyes brushed against his face she felt her blood run cold. He was none other than her own Rafe Morgan. His blue eyes sparkled merrily and the chandelier above them glowed down upon him creating a mystifying halo around his sun kissed crown. He was no angel. He was her kidnapper. He could not be trusted no matter how much her heart might be inclined to do so. She stepped away from him but felt his fingers dig into her flesh. “Release me!” she cried struggling wildly against him. But it was of no use his strength was considerable and deep down she found that she didn’t even want to escape. She stood transfixed as he guided her closer to him. Then he leaned down and swooped upon her mouth. His lips consumed hers and she tasted heaven in his kiss. Her eyes flew open and she stared wildly around her cabin onboard The Valiant. Her limbs were sore from the odd position in which she had been lying. She let out a horrified gasp when she realized whose broadly muscled chest she was cuddled up against. Her glance dropped down to her clothing and she breathed out a small breath of relief when she found that she still wore her traveling dress from the day before. She wetted her dry lips and tried to imagine being back at Silverleigh immersed in her canopied bed snuggled beneath the silk bedclothes. But of course before she would have fallen into bed she would have had a gloriously hot bath scented with Lavender. She moaned when Rafe’s hand slipped to fall over her one heaving breast. She nipped down on her lower lip and held her breath to keep from making any noise or movement. She was stiff from being in such a state and she desperately wanted to stretch. She didn’t feel as if she were in danger but she didn’t know how he would react if he awoke to find her so near to him and therefore so accessible. He began murmuring as he glided toward the waking world. She could not hold the large breath that she had sucked in much longer. She let out the captured breath and ruffled the wavy blond hair that curled around his face. Oh how she wanted to bury her hands in his hair and drop her lips to his forehead. Shocked by her wildly wanton thoughts she gasped when she felt him move. He removed his arm from around her waist and reached up to brush his hair off of his forehead. Then his face scrunched into a frown and his eyelids opened. “Good morning,” he drawled lazily slanting his mouth into an amiable grin. She didn’t know what to do. He was even handsomer in the morning than he had been the night before. “Good … good morning,” she stammered finally recognizing the heat of his body pressed against hers. Her dress was nearly sheer and her nipples were painfully taut against the thin silk. He moved again and created even more friction against her. She tried swallowing past the large chestnut sized lump that had suddenly lodged in her throat. She wanted to slide away from him but he still had his one arm holding her against him. He leaned down toward her and kissed her lightly on the cheek. She slanted her mouth to meet his and his lips smacked against hers. Seemingly startled he broke the kiss before it could even begin. “Why will you not kiss me?” the question had spilled out of her mouth before she could even help herself. “Because a true gentleman never kisses anyone but his wife.” His rebuttal stung her and was in complete contradiction to the way that he had behaved the day before. “And here I believed that you had full intentions of ruining me and then forcing me to

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

26

marry you.” “A man does not need to kiss a woman in order to ruin her.” He gave her a wicked grin and made a tingling shiver race up and down her spine. “You are a despicable libertine!” His eyes glowed to a deeper blue and his nostrils flared while the one muscle in his cheek twitched. His one hand moved lower to lift the hem of her dress that was tangled around her legs. He swept his hand up to rest on her bare upper thigh. She snagged her bottom lip as his gentle touch sent a delicious thrill through her. Her bosom swelled with indignation and she struggled to free one arm. Uselessly she tried to slap his wandering hand away. “Stop that!” she snapped out making his hand freeze in mid-motion. For one brief second she could have sworn that she noticed a mischievous glint enter his eyes. Then the glint faded to be replaced by a sobering gaze. “Of course. You are not ready yet. I shall not make love to you unless you are begging me to. And my dear it shall not take me long to urge you to that point.” Smug satisfaction glinted in his dancing eyes. “Keep dreaming sir.” She tried to move her hand and cursed indelicately when her hand slipped and swerved down to lightly brush against the private place between his legs. Rafe stiffened and she smiled watching as his face gradually became mottled with color. “You Miss are treading a very thin line. If you do not take care I will have you here and now in this bed. I assure you that I will not need much more convincing!” As it was neither did she. Feeling the maddened energy boiling within her she pushed against him with all her might and sent him rolling off the bed. He hit the floor with a grand thud and the ensuing silence was so still that she found herself edging to the side of the bed to peer over. In one fell swoop he sat up reached for her and pulled her to down to straddle him. She swallowed again and felt her heart skip a beat. As it was Rafe did not make idle threats for she could feel the burgeoning evidence of his desire straining against her. His eyes danced up at her and he was just about to run his hand up the back of her dress when a loud urgent rapping was heard at the door. “Captain sir we have a bit of a situation brewing up on deck.” She didn’t recognize the young man’s voice though she could tell by the sound of his voice that he couldn’t be much over twenty. “Aye Rupert,” he muttered frustration lining his face. “I was about to have a merry situation going on down here as well,” he muttered dropping his voice so that only she could hear him. “How do they know that you are in here with me?” she hissed slapping him soundly against the chest. He grunted and then pushed her off of him so he could sit up. “My men always endeavor to keep abreast of the situations pertaining to me. If possible I shall order a bath be drawn for you later on. Right now I’d suggest changing into a clean dress. It might serve to freshen you up a bit.” “Are you insinuating that I do not have a pleasing scent about myself?” her voice filled with anger and she watched with delight as it grated against him. “I Miss would do nothing of the sort.” He looked down at his own disheveled appearance and groaned. “Come to think of it I believe I may be in need of fresh attire myself.” He gave her that familiar wink of his smiled and strode from the cabin. Sighing she stared down at herself and over at the cold washbasin of water that sat on her

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

27

dressing table. Shrugging her shoulders she stripped out of her dress and walked toward the water. Soon she’d be awake whether she liked it or not. As she trickled the cool water over herself her mind drifted toward the way that his hands had felt on her body. Shivering she patted herself dry and walked quickly toward her trunk of clothing. Whipping the lid open she searched for something suitable to wear. Crooking her mouth into a secret smile she shook out the strange outfit that she had designed and sewn for herself. She slipped it on in no time at all and quickly plaited her hair. She turned in front of the small full-length mirror and sighed. When Rafe saw her he’d be stunned beyond belief.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

28

Chapter Six Mallory moved with the gentle swaying of The Valiant. He came up beside Ethan and Rupert and stared out at the ocean. “We’re being followed Rafe,” Ethan said darting a cautionary glance at Mallory. “Hells Bells!” he muttered clasping his hands behind his back. “Any thought of which enemy it might be?” “Not a clue as of yet. They are still too far behind us for us to see their flag.” Mallory reached for the spyglass and took it when Ethan handed it to him. He placed it up to his one eye and looked down toward the stern. He strained his eyesight wishing that he could make out the flag that billowed in the breeze. He would have to keep an eye on them for the ship was quickly closing the distance that lay between them. “Signal to The Red Dawn and the other ships. We’ll need to keep them at an arms length. I shall not give Elizabeth back to her father.” “We still have quite a journey ahead of us and we still haven’t been able to ascertain how many other ships could be traveling with them.” “Aye I know Ethan. But we fight if need be we don’t give up Elizabeth for anything.” “I know Geoffrey Caulfield Rafe,” Ethan barked. “In his own distorted way of thinking he believes that Elizabeth belongs to him.” “Not anymore,” Mallory argued through clenched teeth. “She belongs to me now. Keep a keen eye out I’m going to go down to my cabin and arm myself. Make sure that everyone else is ready for battle.” “Aye, aye, Captain,” Ethan said saluting and smirking at him. Mallory rolled his eyes and moseyed back down to the cabins. He pressed an inquiring ear to the side of his cabin wall and was dismayed when he heard no movement inside of Elizabeth’s cabin. Frowning he buckled his British Naval cutlass to his hip and reached for his pistols. He was just about to knock on the outside of her cabin door when Seamus emerged from the galley carrying a tray laden with food. “I thought you might be hungry sir,” Seamus chirped. Mallory rolled his eyes and reached hungrily for two sticky cross buns and a cup of hot chocolate. “Thank you Seamus. As always you know what my stomach is thinking.” He smiled at the Irishman as Seamus darted his eyes wearily toward Elizabeth’s door. “Do you suppose it would be safe sir if I were to knock on the door?” For a rugged seafaring man who touted many scars of battle Seamus almost seemed afraid of encountering Elizabeth. “I think that she will be very delighted when she sees that you come bearing food.” Mallory grinned reached for a cloth napkin and walked up the steps to the deck. He could see that Ethan was keeping a furtive eye trained on the horizon. Just as he licked down the rest of the buns and swallowed the last drag of chocolate he heard Ethan’s outraged curse. “Those aren’t Caulfield’s ships,” Ethan muttered staring through the spyglass while pointing in the offensive direction. “They belong to that bloody Spaniard Antonio.” “Damnation!” Mallory cursed wiping his sticky fingers. “What the hell is that infernal

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

29

Diego doing is these waters?” “Well hell I’ll take a stab at this one,” Ethan began groaning. “Perhaps he’s looking for you.” Mallory grunted and nodded his agreement. “As always Ethan you are most assuredly correct.” Sometimes it just didn’t pay to be in the business of looting and pillaging. **** Elizabeth’s breath quickened at the loud rapping on her door. Why was someone knocking when she was locked in? Unless … squaring her shoulders and sticking out her chest she proudly walked to the door. She whipped it open only to come face-to-face with the ship’s Irish Cook. He stared at her and remained silent yet he had crooked one eyebrow at her strange appearance. He balanced a tray heaped with delicious smelling food. Obviously this Irish Cook knew his craft. Beckoning him inside she stepped aside to let him pass. He walked over to the table and placed the tray down upon it. Turning back to her he grinned and glanced toward the tousled bed knowingly. If he said just one word she’d scream like a bloody banshee. “Would you like me to tidy the covers for you?” he asked softly his accent thick because of his excitement. “I shall manage quite well on my own thank you.” She studied him as his eyes swept the full length of the cabin. “As you wish.” He straightened up to his full height glanced back down at the tray and cleared his throat. “Would you like me to serve you?” It took her a moment to grasp his meaning since her mind was presently elsewhere. No matter what she did she couldn’t get that rake and scoundrel of a pirate out of her head. “Thank you but I think I’ll pass on that one as well.” Her lips twitched as she attempted to keep them from forming into a smile. “Ah well. I’ve prepared you some hot chocolate but there is also some strong tea in the teapot.” He gestured to each item and then glanced back at her. “It looks and smells delicious,” she murmured. Her stomach enforced her words when it growled with hunger. Embarrassed she pressed the flat palm of her hand on her stomach. “I’ll be taking my leave then Miss Elizabeth,” he murmured edging toward the door. “One more thing, Miss, though I may be speaking out of turn.” His ruddy cheeks reddened even more as he locked eyes on her. “Yes,” she said turning around. “Take care of my lad. He might be English but he’s the best man I’ve ever met. He has a heart of gold that one.” “Yes he certainly does have a heart that hankers for gold.” “Ah miss if you only knew the hell he’s been put through. I’m sure that you’d sympathize.” “You don’t even know me from boo yet Seamus,” She murmured taking a step backward. “Aye but despite all of your blustering you have kind eyes.” He turned to leave and then twirled around on his heel once more. “If you’re trying to look like a man in that get-up I’d suggest you tuck your hair up into a cap and squish your charms down a wee bit.” He smiled and then left the cabin. As soon as he stepped outside she heard his amused chuckling. She sighed and frowned. If she’d only entertained Seamus then it would be doubtful that she’d have a different reaction from Rafe. Groaning she sat down and reached for one of the lids

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

30

that covered the hot food. She reached for her cup of hot chocolate and drank it eagerly. Its smooth rich texture coursed down her throat and filled her with a sense of contentment. She then tucked eagerly into the food and found to her enjoyment that not only could Seamus make a fine cup of chocolate but that he could also cook food that would rival her father’s French chefs. She had just cleaned her plate when she heard the frenzied shouts of men up on deck. Pushing back her chair she stood up and walked back over to her chest of clothing. She searched inside and found a cap suitable for covering her long plaited hair. She coiled the raven plait into a makeshift bun and then tucked her cap around it. Then she reached inside for the second hand Greatcoat that she had bought while in London. Its bulkiness would not only protect her from the elements but it would also conceal her ample charms. She still wore her traveling boots having nothing else to consider except her riding or walking boots and at the moment she didn’t know where those were at because Sarah had packed her belongings. Most men on ships went around in bare feet except for the officers but she didn’t think that anyone would pay much heed to her for she was not about to set off barefooted. Breathing deeply she walked toward her bedside table and tucked her mother’s miniature portrait into her pocket. Tapping it to reassure herself she walked to the cabin door. Then as if another mood had struck her fancy she dashed back to the bedside table and reluctantly placed the portrait back on it. She hurried back to the cabin door opened it only to discover that all hell had somehow broken loose. **** “Damn that Spanish Bastard straight to the fires of hell!” Mallory spit out taking his hands off of the wheel and striding back toward the rail. “I think he wants your head this time my friend,” Ethan commented grinning at him as the ship prepared for battle. “Well as it is I’m rather fond of my head.” Mallory touched his neck and grimaced. “Aye the noble St. Martins haven’t lost any heads since oh when was it the Sixteenth Century?” “Fifteenth and don’t be smart.” Mallory grinned while trying desperately to concoct a plan of outmaneuvering the brutal Spaniard that was hot on their trail. “Well now you can’t be breaking that winning streak,” Ethan advised. Men scurried to the battle positions as The Valiant readied their gun cannons. “I should be back on The Red Dawn I don’t know what possessed me to take charge of this ship. It’s a fine sailing ship I grant you and it is heavily armed but I don’t know if it’s as maneuverable as The Red Dawn.” “Don’t you worry Rafe. The Valiant will serve us well. Besides you’ll have to be worried about a boarding party because I warrant that Captain Antonio will be wanting to swing across as soon as he’s able.” “Then we’ll just have to be sure that he isn’t able to bring his bloody ship that close to us.” Mallory grit his teeth and felt the familiar sensations that always came over him when in the heat of battle. His mind usually cleared and focused on one thing: victory. And he would be victorious. For once and for all he was bound and determined to rid himself of that Spanish bastard. He turned his head at the sound of a scuffle. His eyes widened dramatically. He wanted to pinch himself because he was almost sure that what he saw standing before him could not be real. All blood drained from his cheeks. Numbing shock overtook him. But his disbelief only lasted for a few seconds and when it had drained away it was replaced by anger the likes of

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

31

which he had never before experienced. She looked ridiculous in the garb she wore. Her breasts were tightly pressed into the shirt and if she bent over too far she’d spill right out. The greatcoat she wore did little to conceal her charms as it kept blowing open in the harsh sea wind. With a ship full of men he didn’t like that at all. Possessiveness swelled through him. The breeches she wore clung to every single curve on her shapely legs. His mouth went dry. She’d plaited her thick curly black hair coiled it into a makeshift bun and had tried to stuff it under a cap that now sat askew on her head. As a result a few strands had escaped and curled around her heart-shaped face. He shook off the trance he’d been momentarily thrown into as his initial anger returned. He crossed the short distance that lay between Elizabeth and himself grasping her shoulders tightly. He wanted to shake her but he would not! He loved her and he had to keep reminding himself of that fact no matter how many times she tried his patience. If he were going to be married to her he’d have to apply for sainthood. “What in God’s holy name are you doing?” his voice was filled with annoyance and he saw her wince beneath it. “I thought that I would come up here and see what was going on.” Her voice was calm and totally contradicted the rolling emotions that were pent up inside of him. When he stared into her beautiful eyes he saw nothing but anxiousness. Not fear or trepidation only concern. He wanted to shake his head. “Woman you confound me.” She stared up at him and actually had the tenacity and gall to smile sweetly at his barked exclamation. “I thank you,” she murmured. At the sound of her sultry voice he nearly undid it. She was winding him around her pinky finger and worst of all she knew that she was affecting him to the point of distraction. But he would not fall for her feminine wiles he was too strong for that and well at the moment he didn’t have the luxury. “Do you not realize that we are preparing for a violent sea battle?” “I had suspected that you were.” She nodded her head thoughtfully and God help him whether she realized it or not she was batting her rich and thick eyelashes at him. Here he was on the edge of a bloody battle and all that he wanted to do was immerse himself in the sweet and tantalizing woman that stood before him. “A sea battle is no place for a woman.” At his gruff words a hard glint entered her brown eyes. She narrowed them slightly and huffed out a large impatient gust of air that ruffled his hair. “Why pray tell do you think that I am here?” she hissed out. “Because I kidnapped you.” “Not here on this ship you dolt but here on the deck.” He took a moment to reflect upon her words. “I am not in the mood to play games with you Elizabeth no matter how tempting they might be. Now be a good girl and run down and lock yourself in your cabin.” He was unprepared for what came next. In one blurring movement she freed one of her arms and brought it back. Then she smacked him open-handed across his cheek. Stunned he stared at her employing the last of his self control to keep from flying off the deep end with her. “Good girl?” she ranted as he reaffirmed his grasp on her. “I shall have you know that I am six and twenty and haven’t been called a good girl for as long as I can remember.” “Well perhaps it would be time for you to start being a good girl.” “Then in that case I cannot be your wife.” She had him there.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

32

“You will be safer if you return to your cabin.” He was trying to stay calm. Even though she had slapped him and she was pushing him farther than anyone else had ever dared. “If it’s all the same to you I’ll stay here. I like to know what I am dealing with.” he turned her around so that she could see Antonio’s ship in the distance. “See that ship,” he said pointing to the large vessel that was quickly approaching them. “It is called The Destroyer. And the man that commands it is known as Captain Blood. Though his Christian name is Antonio Tirado. He is known as the terror of the High Seas. If he boards this ship you will not want to be around.” “Well I certainly don’t want to be down below either. If he does board this ship and he gets past you and your men then I won’t be any better off down there than I will be up here.” “He devours women.” This time she shivered slightly though the implacable expression she wore still hadn’t changed. “I am not afraid.” He admired the steel that ran through her but he still felt uneasy about leaving her so that she would be vulnerable. “I pray you won’t be once the battle begins.” He finally released her and then turned away from her. It was at that point that he finally realized what she wore. Frowning he whirled back on her with a curious expression on his face. “What are you wearing?” “Trousers.” “You look bloody ridiculous. A woman wearing trousers is a travesty.” “But now I blend in.” He couldn’t stop himself. He burst out laughing and felt euphoria race through him. The woman never ceased to amaze him. “If you believe that love-starved sea men won’t be able to tell that you are a woman badly disguised then you are sadly mistaken. Elizabeth a man would spot you a mile away as a woman. In fact Antonio being the hot-blooded Latin man that he is has probably already spotted you.” She slanted her mouth into a look of disgust. “You, sir, are a ….” “Don’t say it Elizabeth.” His laughter died away as sobriety took hold of him. “As I’ve already told you I don’t have the time. Seamus,” he barked out as the Irishman looked over at him having just emerged form the galley. “Take Miss Elizabeth back down to her cabin and make sure she remains there.” He could see that he was raising her ire but at this point he didn’t give one cockeyed hoot. “She’ll be well taken care of sir,” Seamus said reaching out to wrap his hand around Elizabeth’s. “Take your hand off of me!” She stared at him in that beseeching way of hers and damn it all his heart felt sick. She shouldn’t be able to do this to him. He was a battle-hardened man with principles and women just didn’t have any place in the middle of a fight. “Aye I know she will.” He watched as Elizabeth turned her back on him to walk proudly back down to the cabins. “You know,” Ethan began. Mallory turned back to him. “I’d wager you have a better chance against Antonio than you do against Miss Elizabeth. Mallory groaned and turned on Ethan. “Ethan would you do me a favor?” “Yes?” “Please keep your thoughts to yourself!”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

33

Chapter Seven Elizabeth could not believe the indignity of her situation. She watched as Seamus dragged a chair over in front of her cabin door and sat down upon it. Scowling she folded her hands in her lap and steadied her gaze at him. “I shall not be told what to do!” “As far as I’m concerned what the Captain says is law. We may vote on some things on this ship but taking care of you isn’t one of them. The crew knows where they stand when it comes to you. You’re a fine respectable lady and therefore we are to keep our eyes and fingers off you.” “But you’re looking at me right now,” she pointed out smiling serenely. “The Captain trusts me. He knows I’m not going to pull a Roger on you.” She bit her lower lip and couldn’t help but smile. She was grateful to Rafe for his concern about her welfare but sometimes the man could drive her right up the wall. “What if he needs help up there?” she felt useless utterly and completely useless. “You obviously don’t know the Captain too well. He won’t be the one needing help. But those bloody Spaniards sure as hell will.” Seamus adamantly nodded his head while he leaned back on the hind legs of the chair. She couldn’t sit down. She was restless. She’d never liked the possibility of the unknown. How was she to know how capable Rafe was? She’d never seen a display of his prowess. Albeit it with her and well honestly she hadn’t given him a decent fight. And besides there was something about Rafe that made her want to take care of him. Even though she should want to do him severe bodily harm she didn’t. It had to have been his hypnotic eyes that were drawing her in and capturing her beneath their spell. “Miss Elizabeth if you don’t cease your pacing you’re bound to give me a roaring headache.” She turned her head at the sound of cannon fire. After the cannon fire had dispersed it was followed by an eerie silence which caused goose bumps to emerge across her skin. She rubbed her arms and dragged in a trembling breath. “How notorious is this Captain Blood?” she asked not really wanting to know the answer. “He’s a man without mercy.” “Oh is that all?” she asked laughing nervously. Now more than ever she was worried that just maybe Rafe was going to have his work cut out for him. He’d said that he’d been at the Battle of Waterloo but she didn’t know how well he had fought there. Had he been a hero? Damn she should have asked him more questions. She stared back at Seamus and dropped her eyes to the weapons the man carried. “Do you think I could borrow your pistol?” she asked hopefully realizing that the man would be more apt to hand over his pistol then the cutlass that hung on his other side. “I’ll be the one taking care of you Little Miss,” he whispered a cheery glint entering his green eyes. “This is not to be borne,” she whispered dropping her voice a few octaves. She needed to be the one in control of her destiny not some sea thief who thought he’d steal her to be his bloody wife. Filled with anger she stormed toward Seamus just as their ship rocked again. “Move Seamus.” It was not a request but a demand. If as Seamus said no crewman was to

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

34

put his fingers on her then what kept her inside of this damn cabin? If Seamus did put his fingers on her he’d be breaking his Captain’s direct order. Smiling craftily she pushed Seamus and knocked him off balance since he was rocking back on his chair. Another shudder rang through the ship causing Elizabeth to nearly lose her own equilibrium. Seamus let out a holler and she was out the door. She sped up the staircase to the deck and stood stock still at the sight that awaited her. Her blood curdled with fear and her palms began to sweat. She looked around for a possible weapon hoping to find one soon. The Pirate’s ship that had drawn up alongside The Valiant made her nearly tremble with fear. Never had she known such dread. For The Destroyer was flying the Red Jolly Roger. **** Mallory pulled out one of his pistols and quickly shot an advancing pirate. The man slipped from the rope he had himself curled around and splashed into the water. Several other pirates were still trying to swing across onto The Valiant Damn it all he still didn’t know how they had managed to gain this much speed on them let alone draw up alongside their ship. He punched another pirate as he landed on the deck and sent the man hurtling backward. Then in the blink of an eye he drew his cutlass and drove it through another advancing pirate. He watched as the man staggered back and fell onto the deck. He still couldn’t see Antonio anywhere. Shouts of battle rang through his head and he stepped aside quickly as yet another one of Antonio’s men lunged at him. Antonio’s men swarmed The Valiant and though Mallory had several other ships under his command Antonio’s other ships were engaging them. It was a heated battle and Mallory was not assured of victory. He could see that now. But he was praying that the wind of success would blow toward them. “So we meet again my friend.” Mallory whirled around at the sound of Antonio’s clearly defined speech. Antonio prided himself on being able to speak the English language with nearly no discernable Spanish accent. Mallory advanced his gaze on Antonio and blocked out the several combatants that were lunging around him. He dodged to the side to allow one of his men access to one of Antonio’s men. Antonio tried to drill the edge of fear into his opponents by what he wore. His black hair was tied back with a black scarf and his entire outfit was black save for the red cravat he had tied around his neck. Antonio’s eyes were a steely black and glittered like serpent eyes. Mallory had never cared for the man and knew that his actions were never justified when it came to piracy. Antonio was the terror of the High Seas and wore the title well. “I am trying to decide on whether or not to have a discussion of world events with you or run you straight through right now.” Antonio was also an arrogant and pompous prick. “You may be my guest to try Antonio but you have never succeeded before and I shan’t suppose that today will be any different.” Mallory smiled cockily and held his cutlass steady. He was ready to engage Antonio in battle. The best sword masters in all of England had taught him and he was more than a formidable match for Antonio. “Everyone calls me Captain Blood. How many times must I remind you of that Morgan?” Mallory smiled and nearly laughed. He supposed that he would have laughed had the situation on his ship not grown so grim. “Ah but Antonio you and I share a relationship that calls for a first-name basis of familiarity.” “The only relationship we share is the connection to a certain treasure that we’ve both had in our possession. You stole my loot from me Morgan and I’m fixing to have it back right

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

35

now.” “My apologies Antonio,” Mallory said dropping into a mock bow. “But I do not have it.” He smiled so that his pearly whites would glitter at Antonio. Antonio stalked toward him with an expression of disbelief plastered across his features. “You are in jest,” Antonio said darkly holding his Spanish Cutlass so that the sunlight would shimmer off of the bloody blade. “I assure you Antonio. I am not in jest.” “I shall reclaim my treasure whether or not I have to storm this entire ship to find it.” “I have already told you Antonio there is no treasure onboard this ship.” “Indeed,” Antonio rubbed his chin and smiled at Mallory when a woman’s shriek broke through the grunts and gasps of battling men. His heart skipped a beat and he felt as if he needed to lean up against something for support. “As to the treasure,” Antonio began just as a ragtag pirate appeared with Elizabeth in his grimy clutches. The Spaniard turned to stare at Elizabeth and Mallory watched with growing dread as Antonio’s features split into a grin. “I would have thought that this pretty little piece would constitute as one though I daresay I might be mistaken. Shall I take this treasure as you took my jewels and gold?” Antonio beckoned for his man to give Elizabeth to him. The pirate threw Elizabeth into his arms and he pulled her roughly against him. “Perhaps I should sample her wares here and now on board this very deck and you may have a front row seat.” Mallory felt the life drain out from him. The very thing that he had feared the most of happening had come to fruition and he was at a bloody loss as to how to rectify the matter without endangering Elizabeth. Rape was not against Antonio’s principles. A dry prickly sensation entered Mallory’s throat and he coughed. As soon as he got Elizabeth away from the bloody mad Spaniard he was going to wring her neck! **** Elizabeth stared at the maddened visage of Rafe and tried to smile sheepishly but her heart just wasn’t in it. For once in her life she wanted to kick herself in the behind for not heeding Rafe’s advice. She should have stayed down below. The air smelt of battle and she wanted to retch. That coupled with the fact that her nausea had returned wasn’t making life easy for her. And now to top everything off she’d managed to go from one kidnapper to another. And this one wasn’t appealing in the slightest. Captain Blood’s hand was precariously close to her breast and she was sure that her fate was gruesome indeed. He sounded as if he had the upper hand over Rafe and she didn’t like what he was threatening to do to her one bit. Rafe was an angel compared to Captain Blood. Captain Blood had rammed her up alongside his front and she could feel a rather revolting bulge in the area of his crotch. Now she wanted to throw up more than ever. She heard him slide his cutlass back into its sheathe and draw something that sounded much smaller but no less deadly. He held the Spanish dagger to her throat thereby curtailing her frenzied struggling. She became as still as she could possibly be and her eyes dropped to the glinting blade and then roved over to Rafe. There was unmistakable fear in his eyes. And judging by what she had seen of his fighting prowess she was quite certain that he was not afraid of Captain Blood but afraid for her. She had told Rafe earlier that she would not be afraid but she wasn’t so sure now. Captain Blood could slit her throat open with the flick of his wrist or worst yet the slip of his wrist. She swallowed thickly and felt the cool blade nearly dig into her sensitive skin.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

36

“If you harm her I shall make sure that you die a most horrible death.” “To be sure Captain Morgan I’ve had many threats similar to the one you just made against me. But you see Morgan I do not care one rat’s ass. You have stolen something that belonged to me and since I can no longer reclaim it I shall steal something that belonged to you. You will tell your men to halt their fighting and you shall allow me safe passage off this ship.” “Fine,” Mallory said through gritted teeth. “So long as you leave the woman behind.” Captain Blood’s hollow chuckle made Elizabeth’s stomach lurch and she tried to drag in a deep calming breath. “Your woman no longer belongs to you. She is mine now.” Had Elizabeth not been so scared of accidentally moving the wrong way and causing Captain Blood’s dagger to draw her own blood she would have given both men a what for. As it was she had to keep her mouth firmly clamped shut. Captain Blood’s cold malicious laughter rippled across the deck and made everyone stop in mid-motion. All eyes rested on her as several grunts of alarm rang through The Valiant. Obviously Rafe’s men were concerned about her. “Damn you straight to hell!” Rafe spat out his eyes darkening to that mystifying cobalt color. Elizabeth’s heart ached for him. She wanted to throw herself in his arms despite all of his platitudes about how she belonged to him. If she had to belong to a man she’d far rather it be Rafe than Captain Blood. A line from Captain Blood’s ship was flung across and thumped against The Valliant’s rail. Gulping down her trepidation she let out a little indignant squeak as Captain Blood reached for the rope. Internally she screamed for Rafe to help her but she knew that his hands were tied. It was all her fault. But then on the other hand if Rafe had not kidnapped her in the first place she would not have been placed in this situation. Captain Blood removed the dagger from her neck and placed it back in its sheathe. Then he grasped hold of her in a viselike grip and nearly squeezed the air straight out of her. He wrapped his fingers around the line and then jumped up to the rail. He held her as if she weighed no more than a sack of flour. He swung across to The Destroyer and landed on the deck with an awful thud. She closed her eyes and then opened them again when she felt him reach for something. She gasped when his hand enclosed around a Spanish pistol. Her mind raced. She looked to where Rafe was trying to fight his way to a line. He had just wrapped his hand around a rope when Captain Blood took aim. “Rafe look out!” she screamed but it was all happening too fast. She could not stop Captain Blood. At the last possible moment she heaved with all of her might and knocked the bloody bastard off balance. His arm swerved therefore altering his aim. But the gunshot still pierced through her hazy brain and made her drop to her knees in agony. She watched as the shot connected with Rafe’s chest and threw him catapulting backwards. He slammed onto the deck with such a resounding thud that even she heard it. A keening wail escaped her at the sight of Rafe’s still expressionless face. She didn’t have much time for Captain Blood wrenched her to her feet and began dragging her across the deck. “Get us away from here,” he shouted out. His men began to drop back onto The Destroyer. Screaming she struggled against Captain Blood. He would not take her. If she made a run for it … she could throw herself overboard. Rafe was dead and her heart had died with him. **** Mallory groaned and rolled over onto his stomach. The Valiant swayed beneath him. He could hear his men rushing to him and he looked up to catch Ethan skidding toward him. Ethan

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

37

clutched his right arm up against his chest and blood trickled down his arm slithering across his hand to splatter onto the deck. Mallory winced and breathed against the smarting pain that exploded in his left shoulder. He placed his right hand up to it expecting to feel warm gushy blood. But instead his hand was dry when he pulled it back. “What the …” he muttered believing that he had been granted a miracle. And in a way it was a miracle that had saved his life for his brother’s Celtic cross he wore around his neck had saved his life though it was dented quite horribly now. Rolling his eyes heavenward he muttered a silent prayer thanking his foresight on deciding to carry on the St. Martin tradition of wearing the cross despite the fact that he wasn’t the firstborn son. Ethan drew up short and snorted. “Good grief Rafe I thought you were a goner for sure.” “So did I,” Mallory admitted pushing himself to his feet. “You should have your injury attended to.” Mallory nodded at the blood that still dripped onto the deck. He scanned his eyes across the deck and found to his chagrin that most of his men looked as if they had met hell straight on. Since he seemed to be one of the only ones in good condition he walked unsteadily over toward the wheel and gripped it sternly. Then he signaled to the other ships that seemed quite battle worn as well. He cast his eyes to the heavens and sighed with relief when he found that their masts and rigging hadn’t been damaged. Yet another blessing that would work to his advantage. Ethan came to stand beside him as Mallory stared out at the sea. “We’ll catch up with them and we’ll have her back in no time flat.” “I know. I just worry about what kind of condition I’ll find her in. It was my responsibility to keep her safe. I failed her.” Ethan thumped him on the back with his good arm and Mallory stared over at him. His first mate had ripped a length of his jacket off and had tied a strip of it around his arm though by the looks of things he still bled rather profusely. “I think Ethan you should go below and have someone stitch that up for you. I don’t think you’ll be able to staunch the flow of blood otherwise.” “We shall have to take great care to keep the morale of the men up,” Ethan said thoughtfully. He gave him a wink and ambled away. Mallory sighed and wondered who would keep his morale up. He’d never been so distraught in all of his life. He felt like slamming doors and breaking something priceless but he couldn’t indulge in such reckless behavior. It was his duty to rescue Elizabeth and rescue her he would. **** Elizabeth stared around in revulsion at the opulent cabin she had been flung into. Her heartbeat had still not stopped its racing against her chest and she doubled over as another wave of nausea assailed her. Red velvet draped the cabin and made it look like a Sultan’s harem instead of a Captain’s cabin. She swallowed against the sour bile rising in her throat. She stood up and walked unsteadily over to the water decanter that sat on Captain Blood’s mahogany dinner table. Pouring it she spilt some onto the table surface and grimaced. Shakily she brought it up to her lips and sighed when she drank in a few mouthfuls. Then she reached for a cut lime and drizzled the juice into her water. She was tired and heartbroken. She didn’t know why she drank the juice when she knew that a horrible fate at the hands of a madman awaited her. It wouldn’t matter if she got sick with scurvy ... no one would come for her now that Rafe was dead. She was alone. She’d never truly felt threatened by Rafe ... but Captain Blood frightened her right down to the bone. No one would be coming to rescue her. After all who would miss her? No one. Rafe

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

38

might have missed her and he might have pursued her but he was dead so he could no longer come to her rescue like a knight out of Chaucer’s tales. She had just wandered over to a map that was hanging on Captain Blood’s wall when she heard the cabin door being wrenched open. Closing her eyes and muttering a prayer she steeled herself for what was to come. She slowly turned around and gasped instead of screaming. Her eyes trailed up the full length of Captain Blood. She hadn’t gotten a good look at him before but she could inspect him now even in the flickering candlelight. “Greetings,” he purred. He smiled revealing a row of crooked and yellowed teeth. “Evan isn’t it?” And then she gasped and went careening back toward the bed. Falling onto it she stared up at him in stupefied horror. How in God’s name could he know her secret identity?

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

39

Chapter Eight She watched open-mouthed with horror as Captain Blood strode toward her. “Phillip?” she asked narrowing her eyes and perusing him closer. She envisioned him wearing the suit of a proper English gentleman and she knew she was right before he even confirmed her suspicion. “Aye one and the same,” he said gruffly moving over to pour himself a full glass of what was probably rum. “How did you know who I was and where I was?” her question hung in the air as he gracefully turned back to her. “Did you suppose that you could fool me that easily? I understand your need for anonymity. After all entering a rowdy gaming hell dressed as a frilly dandy is far preferable to entering such a place dressed as a prudent young woman.” He raised thick black eyebrows and held her gaze with his own penetrating one. “Why did you kill Captain Morgan?” She intended to ask the question in a calm and collected voice but instead it came out ragged and tense. “Because I didn’t feel inclined to compete for you.” His devilish smile sent a chill racing down her spine and it was far different from the shivers that Rafe gave her. She found herself reaching down and clutching handfuls of the silk bedcovers in her fists. She tried swallowing and nearly choked. “How long have you ….” “Been following you?” he asked finishing her question for her. She nodded her head feeling woozy with each sway of the ship. “Since you attended White’s that night and I caught sight of you. I knew straight off that you weren’t a man. Everyone else might have thought that you were an effeminate dandy but I knew better. I was impressed by your gambling skills and by your quick tongue. Your eyes and charms also encouraged me to pursue you.” Closing her eyes she remembered that fateful night in White’s. She’d gone there dressed as her alter ego an effeminate dandy that she’d named Evan. There was no other way for her to get the rush of the gaming hells. Women were prohibited from entering White’s ... but as Evan she could frequent all of the clubs in London without being tossed out on her rear. And with the way that fortune always seemed to sway in her favor at the gaming tables she usually garnered a good deal of unwanted attention. That was when she’d crossed paths with Phillip. She’d never known that he was a pirate posing as a proper English gentleman but then she had a great deal of secrets she wasn’t surprised to find out that others harbored secrets as well. Her friends had dared her to dress up as a man and play at White’s and now that dare was coming back to haunt her in terrifying ways. It had cost Rafe his life. She shuddered again as she digested his words. This couldn’t be happening. She had only attended White’s those few times on a dare and as a lark. She had never supposed that her actions would have such heavy consequences. “Why do you want me?” she knew that he was infatuated with her but for a man in his formidable position that didn’t seem to be enough. “Did you know that my father was an Englishman?” He turned to her and waited expectantly for her to respond. Dumbly she shook her head and waited for him to continue. “I

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

40

was born on the wrong side of the blanket. My mother was quite poor and was taken in by my fast-talking father. Soon he had her lifting her skirts for him. I was born exactly nine months later. When he found out she was pregnant with me she lost her allure. He kicked her out of his bed and out of his life. She had nowhere else to go but the streets. After I was born she had numerous other lovers but each and every one of them tired of her after awhile. They used her and got rid of her once they got bored with her. After all she was only a Spanish woman ... she was far beneath them in their eyes. I lived in hell for most of my life and as soon as I was old enough I took to the seas hoping to make a living for myself.” “What about your mother?” She tensed at the darkening expression that was splitting across his face. “She withered away in a whore house.” His answer was succinct and to the point. Her stomach started to churn again as he continued. “I want you for the respect that you maintain in England and abroad. You see my friends in England do not even know that I and Captain Blood are one and the same and they never will. As far as the ton in England are concerned I am but a wealthy merchant seeking to align myself with a well-bred noblewoman. You see that life will always be my safe haven. True running a textile mill isn’t the most exciting vocation but it does do wonders for my reputation as Philip Berkley.” His voice made her afraid and her hands begin to tremble. He began to bear down on her and her eyes searched the cabin for something to defend herself with. She wished with all of her might that he hadn’t taken a special interest in her that night at White’s. He’d liked her so much that he’d insisted she return to the club every night for the next fortnight. Then one night she’d arrived there to find that he’d mysteriously disappeared. In a way the friendship they’d shared had been slightly disturbing ... she’d assumed that he’d been interested in having more than a friendly relationship with her and she’d been determined to end their friendship. In fact his sudden disappearance had been a blessing in disguise. To think that he’d been following her every move since then had made her feel as if her privacy had been invaded. “I am only half-English. I shall never have the position that you seek to align yourself with.” She was clutching at a few stray hairs and she was wise enough to know it. “You will make me a first-rate lover and mistress and with your contacts I will have all the social set at my feet.” She gasped as his words sunk in. Mistress! Of all the nerve! It was really too much. She slipped out from underneath him and stood up on shaky legs. A blackout encroached upon her. “Don’t take one step closer to me,” she threatened. “Do you not know me?” he asked in a highly fake wounded voice. “It is Phillip and I am here to make all of your worries disappear.” “I hate to burst your bubble and all Phillip but I’ve never cared for you. In fact I care more for the bacon on my plate in the morning than I care for you.” His cheeks turned a beet red and he reached for her pulling her against him. Her mind and body cried out. She kicked him hard in the shins hoping that that would serve to deter him in some way. Instead he whirled her around and slammed her down upon his bed. He was reaching for the ties to his trousers and coming down upon her in one fluid movement. “I’ll tame the wildness out of you before this night is through. Then you will know who is master.” Screaming she balled her fist. She swung it at him and hit him full on in the jaw. He reached for her and half-heartedly ripped her shirt that was beneath her greatcoat. While he was

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

41

distracted she reached and pulled out the dagger that he was fastened to his waist. She plunged it into his shoulder blade and cringed when blood began to seep out across his black shirt. She darted away from him and made her way to the door before he pounced on her again. In her moment of confusion the dagger went arcing out of her hand and clattered onto the floor. She fought against him and managed to open the door. She gasped as the cool night air hit her in the face. She couldn’t see much and half ran half staggered up the stairs to the deck above. Crewmen stared at her in shock and then began bearing toward her when they heard their Captain’s bellow. She made a beeline for the rail. Chancing a glance over her shoulder she saw the grim silhouette of Captain Blood. “Catch her my lads and you’ll all have a bit of fun with her this night.” His cruel insinuation made her heart stop beating altogether. For one brief second she stared down into the nearly black rocking ocean. Mustering all of the courage that she could manage she swung herself over the rail and jumped blindly into the cold rushing water. Her body crashed against the waves and she could hear catcalls and jeers in the distance. She shut her eyes against the agony of it all as her body began to take over where her mind had left off. She began treading the water and then she started to swim away from The Destroyer. But not before she heard Captain Blood’s malicious farewell. “Ah lads. There goes our piece of flesh though I’d warrant the sharks will enjoy her almost as much as we would have.” She shuddered again and in her distraction she was sucked beneath the sea. She fought to recover her senses and emerged spitting out salty water all the while. She was doomed. No one would be coming for her and by this time tomorrow or before she would be most undoubtedly dead. **** Mallory stalked the length of the ship. His crewmen had managed to resume their duties even though they looked battered and nearly broken. He clasped his hands firmly behind his back and breathed in deeply as the salty air rustled his wayward hair. He was worried sick and hadn’t felt so helpless in all of his life. Sordid images kept flooding his mind and he wanted to kill Antonio with his bare hands. In fact the next time they met he would kill him and enjoy it immensely. He started at the sound of Ethan’s voice. “Rafe I do not think we will catch up to them. For some reason we have lost their scent.” Mallory’s heart fell and then tightened. His plan for Elizabeth was in shambles and now the love of his life was facing a fate more horrible than death. He should have told her who he was and now because of his deception he would live with paralyzing guilt for the rest of his life. Resting his elbows on the rail he bit his lip as the moist mist from the sea spattered up onto him. He had lost Elizabeth and only a miracle would bring her back to him. **** Elizabeth nearly choked on the mouthful of water she had almost swallowed when she had finally been sucked beneath the rough waves. She had been treading water for hours and she couldn’t keep it up for much longer. There was no land in sight and she didn’t know what to do. She turned at the distant sound of a baby’s cry. Shaking her head she finally decided that she’d gone straight to Bedlam. It wasn’t unexpected. After all she had been through the worst misery that she had ever suffered. She stared at the water around her and licked her salty lips only making her thirst even worse. She was constantly searching the sea for sights of a shark or maybe more. Suddenly the flicker of what looked to be a dolphin filled her vision. She began

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

42

breathing quicker as the bow of a ship came into sight. Straining her vision she caught sight of the flag and sighed with relief. Every muscle in her body ached and she coughed as a spasm wracked through her body. She felt her lethargy overwhelm her and her eyelids drooped shut just as she heard someone call out ‘Miss!’ followed by a large splash. She had just slipped under and began thinking of an underwater faerie and mermaid world as she sank into the welcoming darkness. She was on a bed of the softest downiest feathers. Her eyelids felt as if they were glued shut and she was tempted to drift back into the dreamland that seemed to beckon to her. She rolled over onto her back and then onto her right side. The sensation of being watched overcame her and she opened her eyes to stare into the sparkling eyes of an angelic looking woman leaning toward her with a cool cloth to press to her forehead. “Ah it is a relief to my heart to see you awake and well.” The woman smiled and a warm cheery glint entered her sky blue eyes. Her skin was pale and spotted with freckles. “My Ronald will be very happy to know that you are awake. He says that the two of you know each other from your childhood.” The woman had a thick Scottish accent and her hair was a bright red. “He also said that it was a blessing of fate that made our ship blow considerably off course during the last storm. Had we not been blown off course we would never have come to rescue you.” The woman reached for her hand that rested over the bedcovers and grasped it tightly. “Are you cold?” she asked worriedly soothingly rubbing her hand. “My name is Mary and my dear Ronald is always telling me that I have an insatiable penchant for chatting.” Mary winked at her and Elizabeth tried to speak but found that for the moment she was far too weary. Instead she shook her head in answer to Mary’s question. “Ah splendid. I was afraid that you’d be cold considering the ordeal you’ve been through. I’ve stripped your wet clothes off of you as you can tell and I’ve given you one of my warmest nightgowns. You’re safe now. We shall take you onward to England. Do you remember Ronald?” Elizabeth nodded her agreement and managed to rasp out a weak “aye.” “Of course it was a silly question. I do not know a woman that would not remember my Ronald.” Mary smiled and then stood up when the cabin door opened. “She’s awake my lord,” Mary murmured as an expression of purely adoring love crossed her porcelain features. “Upon my soul that gladdens my heart.” A deep voice said as it resonated around the cabin. “But then I could hardly expect otherwise from the indomitable Miss Elizabeth.” “Ron …” Elizabeth murmured stopping suddenly as he came into view. Her breath hitched in her throat. He had changed a good deal since they had last seen each other. He had without further elaboration grown into a man. And the most heartbreaking aspect of it all was that he keenly reminded her of Rafe. Tears welled in her eyes and pain exploded in her heart. She was mourning a man that had kidnapped her and yet she did not see it as a revolting thing. She quite simply missed Rafe. He had tried to save her from Captain Blood’s lecherous clutches and he had died a nobly heroic death. For a man that had had hardly any honor or position in life she knew that in death his place was assuredly secured in heaven. “Miss Elizabeth you are a sight for sore eyes. What troubles you Ella?” he asked sitting down in the chair that Mary had recently vacated. “Nothing,” she murmured deliberately avoiding his question. Ronald was American-born and they had indeed spent their early childhood together as best friends. In the last few years they had seen each other a scant amount of times and indeed

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

43

Elizabeth had not even been aware that he had married. But Ron still knew her well for she could tell that he knew she was not telling him the truth. His eyes had narrowed and he was biting his lip. He glanced toward Mary and his worried visage immediately melted. “All will soon be right with your world Ella. Soon you will be up on your feet and Mary will take grand care of you. She’s quite the woman my Mary. A loving mother and wife a man could not ask for more.” He winked at her and then leaned toward her. “I had to cure her of her haughty ways when first we met.” “Ronald!” Mary gasped walking toward the bed balancing a baby on her hip. “You did no such thing. It was I that had to pull you off of your high horse.” “Now, now, my lady, do not grow angry with me.” “I am not angry,” Mary said gliding toward the side of the bed. “Can you believe Ella that I married myself a title?” Elizabeth shook her head and wanly smiled. “Aye indeed it is true. Mary is my little Countess.” “Oh behave my lord,” Mary said her eyes dancing with twinkling stars. Elizabeth’s heart ached as she was basked in the glory of their true love. Ronald had been a scamp when he had been younger and yet if Elizabeth didn’t know better she would swear that Mary had tamed his wild ways. She would die a shriveled-up old maid now that Rafe was gone for she would never again meet a man that would stir her the way that he had. “I would like to sleep,” Elizabeth murmured finding that she could contain her sorrow no longer. Mary leaned toward her and smiled. Elizabeth could see understanding in her eyes. “My lord I am afraid that you are exciting her too much. You shall just have to go back up to the deck and busy yourself with matters pertaining to the ship. After all you are its Captain.” “Of course I’ll leave you two lovely ladies alone and my little lord shall need his sleep soon,” Ronald said kissing the downy crown of his son’s head. He walked out the door and shut it quietly behind him. “Now my dear,” Mary said leaning forward as the baby reached out toward Elizabeth. “You may cry for your lost love.” Elizabeth was lost for words. She merely stared up at her dumbly. “My dear,” Mary started. “An astute woman knows these things and a woman blessed with the second sight truly knows these things. So let those tears that you have been valiantly holding fly free and take comfort in one true thing. I do not believe that you have seen the last of your love. But then I may be mistaken. Although I doubt it.” A secret smile played at the corners of her mouth. “I shall sit here until you fall back asleep.” “Thank you,” Elizabeth murmured doubting the woman’s statement about the second sight. She simply did not believe in such fustian nonsense but she was happy nonetheless that Mary had tried to ease her torment. The tears slipped down her cheeks as she buried her head in the soft pillow and gave into the exhaustion that pulled at her every fiber. She fell asleep and dreamed of a paradise the likes of which she could never imagine. And the prince of this paradise was her guardian angel Captain Rafe Morgan.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

44

Chapter Nine “Captain sir I can see a ship on the horizon!” a young lad exclaimed pointing as he balanced precariously at the top of the mast that he had climbed. Mallory reached for his spyglass and held it up to his right eye. Robbie was right. There was a ship on the horizon though they would have to change their course slightly in order to intercept them. “Change our course for interception,” Mallory called out as shouts rang through the ship. He would pray to God that somehow it would turn out to be Antonio’s ship. Mallory held hope in his heart for it had been the only thing that had sustained him through these last hellish two days. He didn’t want to imagine the sorts of vile things that Antonio could be doing to Elizabeth. It made him want to scream with frustration and only made him want to do bodily harm to someone. He hadn’t slept at all since his blissful night with Elizabeth and he was beginning to think that his tiredness was making him half mad. He brushed at the stubble that had grown on his cheeks. He hadn’t taken the care to shave and he didn’t know if he ever would. He grew a beard whenever he was in emotional upheaval and right now he knew that Elizabeth’s violent abduction constituted as that. He clasped the spyglass tightly in his hands and kept checking to see if he could gain a clearer image of the ship. “Penny for your thoughts,” Ethan murmured coming up quietly behind him. Mallory turned to glance at him and sighed. “Do you know that sometimes I yearn for my lands in England when pitted up against the tediousness of the sea?” “Aye sea voyage can be tedious but we are on a hot pursuit right now. I would have thought that you would be filled with excitement.” “And what shall I do to console Elizabeth once I rescue her? I shudder to imagine the misery she has been put through and it has been all on my account.” “Rafe you cannot put the burden of Elizabeth’s abduction at your door. It is not your fault that she was taken. You did everything in your power to keep her safe. Hells Bells you were even willing to take a bullet for her.” “Yes but it does nothing to ease this clenching in my gut.” “And I’d suspect in your heart as well. Face it Rafe you have fallen head-over-heels in love with this woman. And when you are in love you are strong and weak all at the same time. You are strong because the euphoria of your love fills you with passion and weak because the worry of losing your love to something dire pulls at you every day. If Elizabeth favors her mother’s side of her family then I’ll guarantee you that she’ll have survived with her mind and soul intact.” “I’ve definitely discovered that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to Elizabeth.” “Ah so you’ve discovered that your simple plan of marrying her and using her fortune is more complicated than you would have thought?” There was unmistakable amusement in Ethan’s voice. Mallory slanted his mouth in a grin and sighed. “Simple is definitely not a word that should be used when describing Miss Elizabeth. Do you know that I would marry her now even if she weren’t an heiress? Aye I believed that I was in love with her before but now there is a

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

45

burning in my heart that will never be extinguished.” “Doesn’t it concern you that she cannot remember you?” Mallory considered Ethan’s question for a good length of time. “My kiss will remind her of everything.” “Really? Think that much of yourself do you?” Ethan chuckled. Mallory put the spyglass back up to his eye and felt his breath hitch in his throat. He could see the ship’s flag. “Prepare the cannons,” he ordered cutting their conversation short as they readied to board the ship that they were quickly approaching. **** Elizabeth stirred in her deep slumber as she felt the ship lurch. She fluttered open her eyes and caught the unguarded expression of Mary. She had just shut and locked the cabin door and was quickly moving to the other side of the bed to check on her son. “Mary?” Elizabeth asked sleepily. Mary whirled about and put on a brave smile for her. She now held her sleeping son to her breast and the sight was enough to touch Elizabeth’s heart. “What is happening?” “Never you mind dear,” she soothed walking to sit on the side of the bed. “All will soon be well.” Elizabeth arched her eyebrow as the ear-splitting sound of cannon fire broke through the tension in the cabin. “I don’t think that can be ignored do you?” “We are under attack,” Mary said softly in a controlled voice so as to not scare her son. He had already woken up and had begun to cry out in fear. Elizabeth’s heart stopped. No, this could not be happening! She would not, could not allow Antonio to board this ship. Not after all that Ronald and Mary had done for her. She would be damned if she allowed that bastard to hurt Mary or even worse the innocent babe that she held in her arms. “Do you know who is attacking the ship?” her voice broke and wavered though Elizabeth managed to just barely maintain her calm. “Pirates,” Mary answered shuddering. “They are onboard a smaller vessel but my Ronald seemed very worried. Here you must hold Declan,” Mary insisted thrusting the baby toward Elizabeth. She accepted the precious burden as her mind reeled. There had to be something she could do. She watched mesmerized as Mary moved over to the nearest chest and opened it. She withdrew a long blade from a scabbard that resembled a Scottish broadsword. She clasped her hand around the gold basket hilt and smiled at Elizabeth. “What are you doing?” “I am preparing to protect what is mine,” Mary said smiling encouragingly at her. “And you know how to wield that sword?” “Of course I know how to fight. After all my dear I am known in Scotland as the Lady Warrior. In time as I tell you about myself you will know why I have been given that name. But for now there are other things that we must attend to. Like making sure that these immoral men do not harm Declan.” “Then you do not think that Ronald will be able to stand against them?” “I have a great amount of faith in Ronald and I trust him with our son’s life and my own. But I glimpsed terror in my husband’s eyes. He is worried that something dreadful shall befall us this day.” “I thought that you had the gift of the second-sight?” “Whatever approaches is veiled in the mists for some reason. I do not know why and it is

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

46

a mystery that makes my heart ache.” Mary turned her head at the sound of another warning shot. “They not dare hit our ship unless absolutely necessary. If they did they would not be able to use it for further purposes.” “I cannot allow you to take on this fight when it can be avoided.” Elizabeth’s resolve strengthened as she stared down at the sweet child that was cuddled into her. She stood up carefully and made her way toward Mary. “Take your son,” she said as Mary accepted him with one arm. “I know who these pirates are. They are the men that I escaped from. They are merciless killers. You will not be able to stand against them.” She bolted to the door and had it unlocked before Mary could make any protest. “Elizabeth no!” Mary’s voice called after. She winced as her bare feet slapped against the deck. It was then that she finally realized that she had fled the cabin in nothing but her nightgown. But it was too late to turn back. She ran up the steps to the main deck ignoring the raised eyebrows that the sailors gave her. In her haste she slammed into Ronald and was propelled backwards before she righted her footing. “What the hell do you think you are doing?” Ronald questioned angrily. She ignored him and tried darting around him so that she could see the ship’s flag. “Is it the Red Jolly Roger?” she mumbled. Her eyes searched and then found the ship. Her heart stopped and her mind whirled as she fell against Ronald. “This can’t be happening!” She struggled to control her rapid breathing as her world once again turned upside down. The setting sun glistened upon the man that stood ready to swing across and board the ship. It was a miracle for she had no other explanation. Tears trickled down her face and her knees became wobbly. She knew that she was about ready to collapse. The excitement had finally taken its toll on her. With the light of the sun glowing around him he looked like a divine angel instead of the marauding pirate that he was. “Rafe?” she whispered before she succumbed to the darkness that was drawing near to her. And for the second time in her twenty-six years Miss Elizabeth Caulfield fainted dead away.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

47

Chapter Ten Mallory could not believe the heart-wrenching scene that played out before him. She was alive and well! He stared belligerently at the man that had caught Elizabeth and swung across to the ship. Jumping down onto the deck he held his arms out for her. “Hand her over old man,” he whispered lacing his voice with just the right amount of danger. In his experience people always bowed down to the tone of voice that he currently employed. “You sir may go straight to hell.” Mallory was taken aback by the man’s nerve and impudence. Shots rang out around him though Ethan seemed to be covering his hide rather well. He doubted that anyone on board this man’s ship would try to crack a shot at him anyhow. They’d be too afraid of hitting their captain. “Obviously you did not hear what Elizabeth uttered before she collapsed. She knows me. She belongs to me. So be a good chap and hand her over to me.” He encouraged holding his arms out again. He didn’t want to hurt the foolish yet brave man that stood in front of him but he would bloody him black and blue if that was what it took to get Elizabeth back in his arms. “You are a cut-throat of a pirate. And as the Captain of this ship it is my duty to capture and detain you.” “You and how many marines?” Mallory asked scanning the deck. The man standing before him was ill-prepared for a sea battle and he was bloody lucky that he hadn’t met Antonio instead of him. “I’m afraid my good fellow that we haven’t yet been introduced. If you don’t already know me you soon will. I am Captain Rafe Morgan.” He watched with enjoyment as the man’s bravado wavered slightly. “And obviously you have not heard of me. I am Captain Ronald Higgins.” Ronald stuck out his chin and fearlessly challenged Mallory. “Captain Higgins you do not want to find yourself on my bad side.” His teeth were clenched now and he yearned to gather Elizabeth into his arms. “I shall not give you Ella,” Ronald said causing Mallory to snort. “Look around you Captain Higgins. In your moment of distraction my men have successfully secured your ship. You sir are at a supreme disadvantage.” Their disagreement was interrupted when a furious scream filled the air. If Mallory wasn’t mistaken it sounded like it was some sort of a war cry. Bellows and grunts of pain filled the air as two of his men came speeding up the steps leading down to the cabins as if they had a monster on their trail. “What in the blazes …” Mallory said staring in open-mouthed astonishment at the enraged woman that had come running up the steps. “Lady Mary?” Mallory asked dropping his arms to his side and resting one hand on his cutlass. “Aye one and the same,” she whispered as a murderous glint entered her sky blue eyes. Then Mallory watched with a smile tugging at his features as the maddened glint in her eyes faded to be replaced by stunned disbelief. “Your Grace?” Mary asked. Her jaw dropped down as her eyes scanned over him. “Saints be praised but you’re a bloody pirate!” “And a damn good one at that,” he answered smiling brilliantly.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

48

“Your Grace?” Ronald asked incredulously staring unbelievably between Mallory and Mary. “Why are you doing this St. Martin?” Mary asked falling into a more relaxed stance. “And just in case you’re interested,” she said her blue eyes flashing onto Ronald. “Your son is down in the cabin with Sully.” “Thank God,” Ronald said. “And you sir you may tell you’re men that they deserved everything I gave them. To be sure I have never seen such absolute disregard for a person’s personal space. Why I wouldn’t even be up here had they not stormed into my locked cabin.” “I apologize, Mary,” Mallory said bowing graciously. “I shall make certain that they are properly punished.” “Yes indeed you may take your men and get the hell off of my ship,” Ronald nearly shouted. Elizabeth still hung lifelessly in Ronald’s arms completely oblivious to the heated exchange that went on around her. “I will do just that when you hand over Elizabeth.” “You may stuff that Captain Morgan or St. Martin or whoever the hell you are.” “You may call me Captain Morgan when I am on the High Seas but when you see me in London Society you’d best call me Your Grace.” His voice held a pompous edge. He gained great satisfaction out of Captain Higgins obvious discomfort. Captain Higgins’ eyes seared Mallory and Mallory simply smiled sweetly back at him. “Deliver Elizabeth into my hands right at this moment or I shall grow tired of this bothersome game.” “I shall not!” Higgins said tightening his hold on Elizabeth. Mallory turned his head at the sound of Mary’s surefooted approaching steps. He and Higgins were both surprised by her next announcement. “Do it Ronald.” Her voice was steady and held a commanding tone that even Mallory couldn’t help but admire. “Mary, have you taken leave of your senses?” Ronald asked exasperated. “No I have not lost my wits. At least not yet. Pray do as I said Ronald.” “You know that your every wish is my command but I cannot in good conscience hand my childhood friend over to a bloodthirsty pirate.” Mallory’s booming laughter echoed around them as he reacted to Higgins absurd comment. “Bloodthirsty am I? What do you think of that eh Ethan?” he asked when Ethan appeared seemingly out of thin air. “I think Rafe that this man is filled with shit,” Ethan scoffed sneering at Ronald. Ronald stared over at Mary and Mallory could see the man searching her face for some sort of indication that she was in jest. Finding none Higgins sighed and coughed. “Upon my word I pray that I shall not regret this decision.” “Have I ever led you astray before my lord?” “No I suppose that you haven’t my lady.” Ronald expelled a large gust of air. He gently transferred Elizabeth’s body to Mallory’s waiting arms. “If you harm her and I find out I shall make you rue the day that you were born.” “I would expect nothing else,” Mallory whispered tenderly brushing a strand of hair away from her forehead. He smiled gently at Mary and then gave Ronald a stern look. “In fact if you know what’s good for you you’ll sail with me and my other ships. As soon as we arrive in

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

49

English waters we’ll change our standards. But for now we remain pirates while on the High Seas.” “And why perchance do you think that I will accept your invitation?” Ronald regarded Mallory steadily and Mallory felt a welling of yet more self-fulfilled satisfaction. He darted his gaze toward Mary and watched her narrow her eyes. She knew enough of him to suspect that he was up to something. He could rock the boat some more by dropping the little tidbit concerning Mary’s past relationship with his brother but he knew that dear old Ronald had suffered enough for one day. But he did have a feather in his cap if the overstuffed prig ever rubbed him the wrong way again. “Because if you do not accept my invitation you might very well be sailing right into the clutches of a madman. I assume that you’ve heard tales of Captain Blood?” A hush fell over the crew as everyone from the sailor mopping the deck to the ones climbing the rigging stopped in mid-motion. Ronald coughed indelicately and then cleared his throat. “Of course I have heard of Captain Blood.” “Smashing. I’ll just be taking my leave and setting for another course. I shall see you again will I not Countess?” He stared at Mary and inwardly wished that her hot-headed husband would come to his senses. They wouldn’t stand a chance in hell of winning against Antonio. “Of course you shall St. Martin. For I daresay that we shall see each other again once we reach Portsmouth. After all as long as we are sailing together we’d be hard pressed to lose track of each other wouldn’t we?” The matter was settled with just one simple statement from Mary. Ronald seemed slightly uncomfortable at her straightforwardness at dealing with the situation at hand but he remained grudgingly silent. “By the by what is this ship christened? I missed the name in my haste to board you.” “St. Martin, do not be so daft. I know that you aren’t the dumbest title in the haut ton. I believe that title still belongs to Lord Carldon. You know that this ship has been christened The Warrior’s Lady.” “Aye I know,” he said as a mischievous gleam entered his eyes. “And now I’m sorry to say that I know which of you is the lady and which of you is the warrior.” “Devil take you, St. Martin. I shall see you hang one of these days,” Higgins promised starting forward with his fists raised. Mallory turned as a line was thrown across him to him. “Aye but then I daresay it won’t be this day.” He cradled Elizabeth to him and made sure that she was quite secure. Then he reached for the rope and wrapped his gloved hand around it. He was back onboard The Valiant in no time at all. He went down to his cabin straight away and tucked her underneath his bedclothes. He settled down beside her and studied every nuance of her beautiful face. Her ebony waves flowed across the pillow and made him want to lose himself in their silky embrace. Her eyes were moving back and forth beneath her eyelids and her breathing rapidly increased. She had high cheekbones and a pronounced chin. Her lips were as red as the reddest rose and felt and looked like sun-kissed rose petals. She was everything he had ever dreamed of and more. Now that he had her back in his possession she would be his forever. She moaned softly in her sleep and turned her head to the side away from him. He resisted the urge to nudge her head back to its former position so that he could drink in her beauty once again. Her body jerked and lifted off the bed as she shot her one hand through the air. It was balled up in a fist and by the looks of

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

50

things she had just about been ready to punch him. Frowning, he finally decided that she was in the throes of a most terrible nightmare. He held her hand steady beneath his and leaned forward on the mattress. “Elizabeth,” he called out softly hoping to slowly awaken her without jolting her senseless. “Hmmm …,” she murmured though her features were scrunched up and one single tear had trickled down her cheek. Alarmed at the depth of her despair he gently nudged her. He leaned down toward her and was about to kiss her on the forehead when her body lifted clear off of the mattress and her position changed. Instead of finding her silky soft cheek his lips found her rosebud mouth. He pulled away from her as a thunderous storm began brewing inside of him. His breathing was ragged and he had to employ all of his self-control to keep himself from kissing her again. Just as he was pulling away from her, her eyelids fluttered open and for one brief moment they softened in recognition. Then good sense seemed to pervade her body for her eyes welled up with stunned amazement. “Rafe have I wandered into a dream?” “I do not believe so,” he whispered feeling himself becoming bewitched by the damnable sultriness of her voice. Damn a man could lose himself in that voice. “But you are dead! I saw you die with my own eyes.” “I can assure you my dear that I am alive and well.” He smiled reassuringly at her. “Antonio shot you!” “Aye, and he missed the mark. Do not fret my dear. I am whole and hearty and very capable of holding you in my arms.” “This cannot be! I thought you were dead! I’ve never been so scared out of my wits in all of my life. I put myself through all of that misery only to discover that you are none the worse for wear?” “I assure you my dear the next time someone shoots me I’ll try my best to die so as not to disappoint you.” “Do not use sarcasm on me Rafe Morgan,” she snapped back. Her color was returning as her heated passion ran through her body. Mallory didn’t mind her wrath so much since it seemed to be doing such utter wonders for her health. “Did you cry for me?” “Certainly not!” Though her voice held a tone that didn’t seem at all genuine. Elizabeth could do a great many things well but she definitely was not a convincing liar. He reached for her hand and caught it before she could tear it away from him. “Your concern touches me. I do believe that we shall have an ideal marriage after all. You’re already beginning to fall in love with me and of course you already belong to me so ….” “Say that again?” “I said you are falling in love with me.” “No not that. The last bit.” “You belong to me. Say it. Say 'I’ll be yours'.” “Get away from me!” she cried out her face mottling with fury. “To think that I actually had a smidgeon of regret in regards to your so called passing!” She wrenched her hand out of his grasp and slid to the other side of the bed. “I, sir, belong to no one, least of all you!” “Oh but you do. And one day you will discover that not only do you belong to me but that I belong to you as well.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

51

He smiled serenely at her as she flared her nostrils. Daggers flew from her eyes and she sat up haughtily in bed and raised her nose up into the air. “You are falling for me Elizabeth.” His voice was filled with seduction and he could see her shiver in anticipation. “You cried for me and mourned me. It shall only be a matter of time before I’m completely beneath your skin. And when that time comes you will find that you can do nothing else but think of me.” “Yes and pigs fly.” “It will become easier for you to come to terms with your emotions. Right now I realize that you are in a vulnerable state. So have it out come here and tell me everything that bastard Antonio did to you.” “Are you out of your mind? I shall not confide in a man that sees me only as his chattel. You sir may remove yourself from this room.” She had her arm out pointing toward the door. “I would love to obey your command,” he murmured with a chuckle in his voice. He raised his eyebrows and raked her with his eyes. “Except there is one minor problem. You are in my bed and you are in my cabin.” He watched with delight as fireballs exploded inside of her eyes. “You sir shall be the death of me.” “Aye but it shall be a slow and wondrous death,” he murmured grinning broadly. “You may have my word on that I promise you.” He dropped his voice to a caressing murmur and grinned when another shiver coursed through her. He had his one miracle given to him. Elizabeth was alive! Now all that he had to do was convince her that she was madly in love with him. Then he had to ruin her wed her and take her fortune. For the fate of the St. Martin legacy hung in the balance.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

52

Chapter Eleven Elizabeth blinked her eyes unbelievably at him. She was quite literally stunned. She didn’t know what to do. She was stuck between a rock and a hard place and she had no idea what to do to escape. “I should have expected no less from a scalawag like you,” she pronounced as he chuckled in that distinctly husky way of his. “I am delighted to see that you haven’t lost your fire and tenacity.” His eyes glowed with warmth and Elizabeth felt her cool skin becoming hot beneath his gaze. “There can be no future for us.” She stared at him earnestly willing him to comprehend what she was trying desperately to convey. “Don’t you see? Even if you do ruin me and take my fortune you and I shall never be truly happy. I don’t love you and without love there is nothing binding us together.” “Do not think that you can placate and convince me so easily Elizabeth. You feel an inkling of love toward me and you can’t deny it for you said that you mourned me when you believed me dead. Or was that confession a complete and utter falsehood?” “I sir am a woman of my word and I stand by everything I say. But you misconstrued my meaning. In light of who I was kidnapped by you were a veritable angel. And I was sad to see that a man such as Captain Blood could beat a man like you.” “Dear me,” he said putting his hand up to his ear. “Was that a compliment that I just heard you saying?” “In relation to Captain Blood you are far more desirable.” She blushed at her choice of words and watched as he nearly beamed with gleeful indulgence. “I did not mean that to come out in that way,” she mumbled as her words ran together in her haste. He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it gently. “You needn’t fret my love. I know what you really mean.” She bristled even further and puffed her chest out. He was the most arrogant and egotistical man that she had ever met. She regarded him steadily and sighed when she felt heat beginning to scorch her cheeks. Should she tell him that he could quite possibly be jeopardizing the very reason as to why he had kidnapped her in the first place? If she was not present when her father died then everything could possibly be lost. Granted she had been siphoning off a certain amount of money into various bank accounts. But none of it even came close to the fortune she would inherit when her father finally passed. She did feel herself softening toward Rafe and aye she was exceedingly happy that he was alive but she wasn’t certain if she wanted to share the rest of her life with him. “I have to tell you something,” she began moving toward him. She dropped her hand onto the covers when a flash of tiredness nearly overwhelmed her. She yawned and blinked her eyes at the extent of her unladylike behavior. Rafe’s eyes widened and then his mouth slanted into that delicious smile of his. God she desperately wanted to throw herself into his arms and allow him to ruin her. He was just about to say something when a loud knock sounded at the door. “Blast it does this ship not know how to run itself without me?” he groused. His eyes flashed with fire and he raked his hand impatiently through his hair. A smile crooked at the corner of her mouth and she clutched the bedcovers to keep

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

53

herself from laughing out loud at the ludicrous expression that pervaded his features. Her heart thumped against her ribcage when he pierced her with his brilliant blue orbs. She groaned and rolled her eyes. Rafe stood up and stalked toward the door. She turned her head and tilted it to the side expectantly waiting for Rafe’s wrath that was just about to explode out of him. He wrenched the door open nearly ripping it off of its hinges. Ethan popped his head inside and grinned. “Sorry to interrupt.” Rafe still had one hand on the door and his other hand rested on his cutlass. “This had better be important.” Ethan’s eyes dropped to the hand that gripped the hilt of the cutlass. “If it isn’t as important as you want are you going to run me through with that?” “To my disappointment I do not think that I can afford to rid myself of you.” Ethan laughed and then sobered. **** Elizabeth watched the strange exchange carefully. Obviously something had happened that Ethan did not want her to know about. She was sick and tired of being sheltered. She wanted to know what was going on. She threw the covers back and scooted toward the edge of the mattress. She was just about to stand up when Rafe whirled about and riveted his eyes upon her. “You Miss are in no shape to be up and about.” His voice held a distinct commanding tone which only served to raise her ire. “I sir shall do what I bloody well choose to please and thank you.” “Do you see what I am forced to contend with?” He sighed and turned back to a slightly amused Ethan. “A great many men would die to be in your boots,” Ethan remarked glancing toward Elizabeth. Startled she hastily slipped back underneath the covers and pulled them straight up to her chin. “As always Ethan you are spot on.” Rafe chuckled and Elizabeth scowled and narrowed her eyes to barely discernable slits. Tonight if he dared to return to this cabin she would box his ears for sure. “I do not wish to pull you away from such an enticing creature truly I do not,” Ethan said “but there are matters that have arisen that require your attention.” Even though Rafe’s back was toward her she could almost see the frown that was most certainly pulling at his features. “Please tell me that Seamus didn’t nearly blow up the galley again.” “No nothing as simple as that,” Ethan answered causing Elizabeth to snort indelicately. “Let’s just say that a certain someone has made a rather uncalled for encore performance.” Elizabeth wanted to jump out of the bed and ignore Rafe’s orders. But in truth she simply did not have the energy. She was still quite fagged and knew that she wouldn’t be up to snuff for at least another day or so. Besides her exhaustion would work to her advantage. At least it would keep him from ravishing her. “Let us be off then,” Rafe muttered. Just as he was about to step over the threshold of the door he turned back and stared at her with an abnormally unguarded expression. “Take care.” He winked and then he was gone. She fell back against the pillows and slammed her fists down upon the mattress when she finally realized that he hadn’t allowed her to confess to him. Now he would never know that her father was on his deathbed. And this one question begged to be answered: what would Rafe do if

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

54

he discovered that the heiress he ruined wasn’t an heiress after all? Because if her father’s will was tampered with she could be set to lose more than a king’s ransom. And if she allowed herself to fall truly in love with the sea thief he’d steal more than just her money. He would steal her heart and her soul. She could bear losing her money if that was the hand that fate dealt her but if she lost Rafe because of her non-existent wealth she would die a most horrible death.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

55

Chapter Thirteen “Ethan when we became friends I never imagined you to be a man capable of wreaking such havoc with my life.” Mallory walked impatiently to the bow of the ship and clasped his hands tightly behind his back. “When you look through the spyglass and see what I caught sight of you shall understand perfectly.” Mallory took the spyglass and held it up to his eye. He felt his stomach fall and swore beneath his breath. “This cannot be possible!” “Oh aye that was what I thought when I first glimpsed sight of it. But to ease your mind it does seem as if they were sailing toward America instead of Britain.” Mallory turned away from the rail and closed his eyes. “Do you suppose she was onboard or do you think she escaped?” “I do not understand why you would care either way.” Ethan shrugged his shoulders. “I say good riddance to bad rubbish.” Mallory nodded his head and shoved the spyglass back toward Ethan. “We shall send out boats to recover any survivors.” “I doubt anyone would be able to survive that blast.” “Nonetheless we shall be good Christians and undertake a thorough search.” “Even if she did survive what would you do when you saw her?” “I do not know.” “Do be serious Rafe. You can not muck everything up with reacquainting yourself with that tart.” “If I were you I would choose my words carefully.” “Well I don’t care what you tell me to do,” Ethan said squaring his shoulders and lowering his voice. Mallory respected the man’s nerve but he really didn’t feel like indulging Ethan at this point in time. “If you do something to jeopardize the relationship you are building with Elizabeth you will loathe yourself.” “Perhaps.” “Rafe …” Mallory turned to Ethan and fixed him with a stern gaze. “Are you going to have the men assemble into a rescue party or shall I give the orders myself?” “I shall do as you have requested.” Ethan turned away from him and then before he walked away muttered “Do not say that I did not warn you.” “I need no such warning.” “Then God help you!” Mallory listened to his words and sighed heavily. He watched as the boats were dropped into the water and men scurried down to climb into them. He didn’t know what to think. He had to send out a rescue party. Higgins would undoubtedly have sent one out if he did not. Chastity Smith was a woman to be reckoned with. He highly doubted that she would have gone down in the flames that were now consuming her ship. She was an enterprising woman and as such she had probably jumped off at the first sign of defeat. Even now the last standing mast on The Beauregard was about to crash into the water and his men were keeping a safe distance

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

56

until it did just that. He didn’t have to worry about Elizabeth discovering him in an awkward moment with Chastity because Elizabeth was absolutely exhausted. An image of Chastity flashed in his mind and he shuffled his feet nervously. Meeting up with her again was not something he needed nor was it something he could afford. But they shared a rather intimate past and he could not shrug her off as if she had never existed. “Penny for your thoughts?” Elizabeth whispered startling him out of his reverie. He glanced down at her and crooked one eyebrow. She stood with a blanket thrown around her shoulders and a teacup clasped firmly in her both of her hands. “I thought I told you to stay in bed.” She sighed rolled her eyes dramatically and sipped at her tea once more. “And here I thought I told you that I can not be commanded to do anything. Those poor souls,” she mused glancing toward the burning ship. “Poor sods more like,” he muttered glancing down toward the deck. “Seamus brought me this lovely cup of strong tea and regaled me with a most interesting story. It would seem that ship is captained by a woman.” “Aye it is,” he confirmed inwardly cursing Seamus. That bloody Irishman sometimes didn’t know when to keep his mouth shut. “I wanted to see what kind of a woman she is. That is of course if she has lived.” “Oh she’ll be alive all right. She’s not exactly easy to kill.” He licked his lips and stared up at the sky. The day was almost over thank the lord and yet he knew that in a few moments he’d definitely have more than what he had originally bargained for. Chastity probably wouldn’t care for Elizabeth. They were two women that had most certainly been cut from different cloths. Chastity was free-spirited and a woman of the world. Her morals were something not to be held in the highest regard and it was said that she had slept with her fair share of the male population. “Fancy that,” she murmured staring over at him with wide expressive eyes. “Seamus also told me that she had a penchant for you at one time.” “Did he?” Mallory carelessly shrugged his shoulders and coughed. He strained his eyes and moved closer to the rail when he noticed someone swimming toward them. The rescue boats were quickly filling with various sorts of men and more surprisingly women. “Rafe I do believe that there is someone trying to climb up the side of the ship.” Elizabeth remarked moving to a safe distance. Mallory strode over to where Elizabeth pointed and looked over the side. He was met with a soaked vision of Chastity. “Well don’t just look at me like that you stupid bugger give me a helping hand,” Chastity demanded extending her hand toward his. He reached down for her and hoisted her up and over the side of the ship. She landed easily on her feet and nearly fell into his arms. Then she surprised the hell out of him when she threw herself at him and kissed him hungrily. He pushed her back but it seemed to have little effect. After a few breathless moments she stepped away from him and sighed happily. “You are by far the last person I would have expected to come to my aid Rafe.” Her harsh throaty voice caused him to wince. Ethan called him Rafe because Chastity had been the one to give him the moniker in the first place. “Chastity you are a sight for sore eyes. I think that I shall have you transferred to The Red Dawn.” Chastity stared at him and slowly curved her mouth into a devilish grin. “Oh but Rafe I thought I’d stay here and warm your bed for you.” He heard Elizabeth choke on her tea and glanced worriedly toward her. She managed to

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

57

take control of her senses and shakily placed her teacup back onto its saucer. Though she did seem quite shaken up. “Chastity, I warn you, you are treading a thin line,” he murmured mentally imploring her to fall silent before she gave any more information away to Elizabeth. “Who’s the pretty piece?” Chastity asked gesturing toward Elizabeth. “The pretty piece can answer for herself,” Elizabeth started clearing her throat. “Oh how delightful the strumpet can talk. Do you pay more for that Rafe?” Chastity remarked turning her eyes on Elizabeth. Elizabeth raised her head haughtily at Chastity’s nasty remark and gave her a look that should have struck Chastity down where she stood. “The question I would like to ask is who the hell are you?” Elizabeth seemed fully capable of taking on Chastity and Mallory was going to play the wise man by keeping himself out of the storm that was quickly brewing between the two of them. “Oh well is that all that you’d like to know,” Chastity smiled brilliantly. “Far be it for me to keep you in suspense any longer. The name’s Chastity Morgan and I am Rafe’s wife.” “Come again?” Elizabeth asked. Mallory darted toward her when the teacup she held began rattling on the saucer. Her face had lost of all its color and her eyes were filled with despair. Had he not been so concerned about her welfare the depth of the emotion she obviously felt for him would have touched him. Her teacup fell to the deck floor and she began slumping forward. He rushed forward and caught her just before she fell.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

58

Chapter Fourteen Elizabeth shook her head slightly. Stars exploded in front of her eyes and blood rushed in her ears. But she was determined to stay awake. She would not faint. The pirate woman named Chastity regarded her with a smug look which Elizabeth yearned to wipe right off of her face. Chastity had dark brown eyes that contrasted dramatically with her light blond hair. She looked like a soaked cat at the moment but had she not been so wet she would have looked magnificent in her black trousers and white shirt. Chastity Morgan was quite simply a woman that she could never compete with and she wasn’t even sure if she wanted to. She rested her hands on Rafe’s arms and gulped in a great big breath of fresh sea air. He stared down at her with concern in his eyes though there was something distinctly different about him. Chastity’s presence had wrought something inside of him something that Elizabeth didn’t even know if she liked. Mustering all her strength she tried to step away from him. Teetering precariously, she couldn’t say that she was entirely unhappy when he gave her one steadying arm to lean on. “Wife?” she asked feeling her sea legs becoming mushy beneath her. She didn’t even know that she had acquired sea legs but then she hadn’t been inclined to be sick for quite a while so obviously she’d somehow found a way to adjust to the seafaring life. Chastity on the other hand looked as if she had been born on a ship and she would no doubt die on a ship. “It isn’t what you think,” Rafe whispered. She glanced up at him and noticed his uncomfortable expression. “Oh come now my love. It is exactly what she thinks. We are husband and wife.” She couldn’t say she liked the way that Chastity purred the words husband and wife. “We were husband and wife,” Rafe pointed out. The rescue parties were now coming onboard the ship and shouts of orders floated to her on the wind. “That is such a technicality don’t you think? Just because we had the union annulled doesn’t mean I don’t still hold you close in my heart. You should have seen the times that we had together why my dear it would have made your charming little head spin.” Elizabeth watched her warily and wished with all of her might that she was back onboard The Warrior’s Lady. Streaks of sunlight danced across the deck and made Elizabeth’s heart fall. Chastity would take Rafe away from her. She had no doubt of that. Once they reached England she would be dumped off without a second thought from Rafe. He had someone like Chastity in his life now. She highly doubted that he would even want to give her a second thought. Money or no money she wasn’t Chastity Morgan and she never would be. “Well Rafe don’t just stand there looking like a complete and utter fool. I could do with a change of clothing you know.” Chastity flung her wet hair over her shoulder and spread her legs apart in what seemed to be her best arrogant stance. Elizabeth shut her eyes and prayed that when she opened them again Chastity would be gone. She opened one eyelid and then the other but to her disappointment Chastity was still standing there staring at Rafe as if she owned him. “I should be getting back to my cabin,” Elizabeth muttered suddenly feeling the nip in the air. Shivering she pulled the blanket closer around her shoulders. The sun would soon be but a memory and a black sky would be draped across the horizon. She breathed in deeply feeling a

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

59

sense of tranquility wash over her. Perhaps it was all for the best. Now she would be able to go back to England without any sort of a disgraceful scandal. Seamus was walking toward her and the lines in his forehead were creased with worry. She had never come across an Irishman that seemed so genuinely worried about her welfare. As it was he had sort of taken it upon himself to take care of her. And if he wanted to treat her as if she were a precious piece of crystal she would allow him. For now she was at the end of her rope. Somehow she had gotten the wrong end of the stick. She had believed that Rafe was beginning to think of her as more than just a kidnapped heiress. She still didn’t know what her father had done to him to incite him to kidnap her. But what she did know disturbed her even more than his motive behind her kidnapping. He had risked his life for her and only heaven knew why he would do such an unselfish thing. Seamus walked up to her side and cocked his head to the side as he raked his eyes over Chastity. “That woman is more trouble than she is worth,” he spat out. He shoved his hands into the pockets of his coat and scowled at her. “Back in me village my Da would have said that she was a bad seed and I’d have to agree with him.” “Why would he say that?” Rafe had moved away from her and was speaking in a hushed tone with Chastity. “Because she’s a hell raiser of the worst sort. She led the Captain into many a tight spot that he nearly didn’t escape. What’s more I don’t have the easiest of feelings when I’m around her. Just you mark my words Miss Elizabeth if he lets her she will make his life miserable once again.” “If he can’t trust or believe in her then why did he feel the need to rescue her?” “Tricky question that is,” Seamus mumbled pulling his pipe out of his pocket. “They say that she saved his life once by taking a shot that was meant for him. Mind you I wasn’t around at that time but the Captain’s had quite the past.” “I don’t even know who he is.” “‘Course you do. He’s the greatest pirate that’s ever sailed across the High Seas.” “No what I mean Seamus is I don’t know what kind of a person he is.” “Good enough to stick his neck out for you.” Seamus puffed on his pipe and then blew out a billow of smoke. “You still don’t understand my question. He hasn’t told me where he’s from or from what sort of a family he hails.” Seamus turned to her and quizzically raised his eyebrow. “Now that would be a complicated question to answer. The Captain’s a private man. He doesn’t like to share much. Have you tried asking him about his past?” “No,” she said sighing heavily. Why was she even bothering herself by asking such stupid questions when she was tired and cold? She didn’t have any foreseeable plans of staying with Rafe so all of this was a waste of her time was beside the point anyway. “I think that you should be getting back to bed,” Seamus remarked. “You shouldn’t be around the men and women from Chastity’s ship. Sorry ragtag bunch is what they are. They have no sense of manners and they’ll more than likely try to have a go with you.” “Why is it that I always seem to be stuck in the middle of all of the trouble?” “Don’t worry lass you have the luck of the Irish with you now,” Seamus said grinning from ear to ear. He offered her his arm and she thankfully accepted it. Rafe was still embroiled in his conversation and he wasn’t taking any interest in her whatsoever. “Let’s just hope he doesn’t tell her who I am,” she mumbled glancing back over her

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

60

shoulder at Rafe. “You needn’t fear. The Captain will keep it under his hat. She smiled wistfully and felt something inside of her begin to snap. Her life as she had known it was careening out of control. Now the only thing she had left to hang onto was her dreams. Her fairy prince was slowly becoming a nonexistent memory and she felt like weeping because soon she wouldn’t even be able to remember him at all.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

61

Chapter Fifteen Mallory dragged Chastity behind him to his cabin. He flung the door open and was relieved to find that it was empty. He had been afraid that Elizabeth would be there. “You know Rafe you should have just told me that you wanted me straight away.” Chastity murmured a sly smile playing at the corner of her mouth. She threw herself onto the bed and sprawled out with her arms stretched out in welcome. “Go and stuff it Chastity,” he shot back. He began to pace nervously back and forth and tried to keep the energy that battled inside of him safely stored away. “Oh now Rafe don’t you want to come and play with me? Don’t you remember the hours of fun we used to have? I taught you a thing or two about the art of pleasure didn’t I?” she laughed. He turned to glance her way and cursed when he saw her naked body. “Chastity, do not push me.” His voice came out hard edged though she didn’t seem to be put off in the slightest. “Oh come now you don’t mean that. You’ve never turned away from me before. My luscious body always seemed to be enough for you. How could so much change between us? I expect to be fulfilled before I leave this cabin! I didn’t think that that wench would be able to take you away from me so easily. What can she do for you that I can’t? You know I’m open to the power of persuasion.” Chastity purred. “I doubt that she knows the many tricks that I have up my sleeve.” She was on her hands and knees now with her face tilted up at him. “You look like a bloody bitch in heat,” he clipped off turning away from her and staring toward the window. “Perhaps I am. Why don’t you come over and sample the wares?” She teased flipping her hair forward. It tumbled over her shoulder and blanketed the tips of her breasts. “It’s been a long time since I’ve had a man like you … the others just didn’t seem to equal your greatness.” “Stop it!” He shouted. He stormed across the distance and leaned down toward her. “Why should I stop? You were always intrigued by my performances before. Why I played many a grand part for your enjoyment. You always did like it when we pretended ….” “Patrick should have left you on the stage. You are far too talented to waste your time as a bloody pirate.” “I make quite the living for myself. In fact my crew and I just found the map to Lord Xavier’s lost treasure.” She had formed her lips into a pout and her eyes danced with fire. Mallory felt his body stiffen. She knew he was weak when it came to such things as old treasure maps. “It is probably not real,” he clipped off turning away once again. The sight of her heaving breasts made it difficult for him to breathe. “Just as well really. I shan’t think it fared too well when I took my little dip in the sea.” She tossed her head toward her wet bundle of clothing. “Though I’d daresay my head remembers it quite well.” She stretched out again and purred, “If you come over here you might jolt my memory. Either way I’ll give you a jolt to remember.” Mallory watched her carefully. “You may rot there for all I care.” He snorted and then strode over to her pile of wet clothes. He picked through them and stopped when he reached the wet piece of linen. Smoothing it out he inspected it carefully beneath the candlelight. “There is

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

62

naught on her but a bunch of unreadable gibberish.” “Is that a fact?” she asked sashaying toward him. He could feel her standing behind him and the hairs on the back of his neck bristled. “I do not think it was that way before though I daresay I can’t remember one way or the other.” Her hand snaked around him and she rested her hand on the front of his trousers. The silky tone of her voice finally began to grate on his nerves. “If I were you Chastity I would make haste and back away from me. But first remove your hand from where it sits.” She blew on the back of his neck and then he whirled about and threw the map at her. “What manner of ship sunk The Beauregard?” “A large one,” she murmured dancing away from him. He ground his teeth together and prayed for an iota of patience. “I do believe that I do not like that little doxy of yours. She isn’t even what I believed was your type. But then it just goes to show what a pretty set of charms will do to muddle a virile man. You always were a breast man.” “Never speak about her in that disrespectful manner again,” he raged bounding toward her. He stopped just short of grabbing her around the neck and wringing the very life out of her. Though he was a pirate he was still for all intents and purposes a civilized man. Chastity might act and live the life of a man but she was still a woman and in her nakedness she made that point appallingly apparent. “Oh imagine that I hit a nerve. Bully that it didn’t evoke more of a reaction from down south.” Her eyes dropped to his groin. “Damn it Chastity I shall not put up with your teasing anymore. There are clothes in that chest go and put some on for the love of God!” “If she wasn’t here you’d already be tossing me onto the bed. And then if memory serves me you would begin to worship my …” He cut her off with a wave of his hand. “She is here not of her own choosing.” He groaned and shut his eyes. He had just made a major blunder. Chastity would take full advantage of the information he had just given her. “What’s this? Not of her own choosing? Why Rafe I didn’t think you were that sort of a man.” Chastity crossed her arms over her breasts and shivered slightly. “Woman, go and put something on.” “If I dash beneath the covers I shall warm up in no time flat.” “You’ll do no such thing. You aren’t staying here on this voyage. In fact you shall be staying with the rest of your crew below decks.” “This is no way to treat me. I am as equal as you are. I am a Captain without my ship.” “I have asked you how you lost your ship and you still have not answered me.” “I grow weary of your line of questioning. Do you actually believe that I sunk my own ship? What sort of an idiot do you take me for?” “When it comes to you Chastity one never quite knows what to believe. You are a woman of many mysteries and many lives. It just falls to me to decide whose side you are playing on right now.” “You shan’t have to think if you come over here. But then I’ve never been a woman to wait.” She crossed the distance in a few long strides and threw herself into his arms. Before he knew what was happening she had herself plastered up against him. “Chastity you have pushed me beyond my limits of endurance. In a moment I shall be right over the edge.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

63

“Oh Rafe not yet but then my eyes could be betraying me.” She slanted her mouth into a seductive grin and dropped her eyes down the length of his body. “Do not allow that little woman to prey on your mind.” “She is not just any woman.” “Ah yes I know that she is the woman that now occupies your bed. But I have many methods of persuasion. And I am not inclined to share any of my possessions. I am a possessive bitch in heat.” She chuckled. Raising her hands she coiled them around his neck. Gently she brought him toward her. He didn’t know what she was doing to him. It was as if she was a siren and she was entrancing him with her seductive ways. Her lips had barely brushed his when a loud cacophony filled the air. Startled out of the spell she was weaving over him he finally mustered up the strength to push her away. He glanced over at the secret passageway that connected the Captain’s cabin and Elizabeth’s and his heart stopped. “No!” he muttered shoving Chastity aside he tried to make his way toward the opened door. He reached it just in time to have Elizabeth slam it in his face.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

64

Chapter Sixteen Elizabeth stumbled away from the secret doorway. Her breath was hitched in her throat and she forgot how to breathe for a few moments. She somehow made her way to the bed. Falling onto it she rested her head on the pillows. She did not know why the sight of Rafe in Chastity’s arms irked her so much. She did not love him. In fact she didn’t even care a pittance for him. He was her kidnapper. He didn’t deserve a second thought. Then why was she so damnably fixated on him? She buried her head in the pillow and let out a long and loud frustrated scream. He should not be plaguing her every thoughts. The infernal man could rot in hell for all she cared! A loud rapping noise sounded at the door. She glanced toward it and decided to ignore whoever was standing outside. Instead she stood up and raced to the secret passageway. Her eyes searched the room for something to use as a blockade. She ran toward her clothes chest and began grunting and groaning as she dragged it across the floor. She simply would not have him come barging into her cabin. The loud knocking sounded at the door again but she paid it no heed. After a good deal of effort on her part the chest was in place. She straightened up and winced at the pain exploding in her back. She was tired she felt grubby and all she wanted to do was find a safe haven either in England or in America. The loud rapping at the door continued and she swiped at the sweat on her brow. Placing her hands on her hips she raced to the door and wrenched it open. She was completely unprepared for the sight that awaited her. She was about to fling an insult at the person standing in front of her but suddenly thought better of it. Instead she slammed the door in his face. Whirling away from it she began pacing about the small cabin. She wanted off this damnable ship. The frigate her father gave her was something that she had never liked and now that it had become her prison she liked it even less. The door burst open and Rafe bounded in. “Remove yourself from this cabin immediately,” she ordered. Stiffening her spine she marched toward him and wagged her index finger at him. “I shall not have you coming into my private cabin without my permission.” “You forget your position onboard this ship,” he pointed out barreling toward her. “Oh I do not forget my place,” she spat out. She stood her ground and refused to give in one inch. “You have put me in this place to begin with so I shall never forget it.” “You Miss shall never get off my back about that will you?” “Not bloody likely. You took me captive and yet you treat me as if I should be kissing your feet in homage.” “I will not do this merry dance with you.” “If I am to be treated as if I am a welcomed guest here and as you say you aim to someday wed me then I would be obliged if you told me a little bit about yourself.” “You know all that you need to. I am a pirate. A well-known pirate.” “Aye I’ve gotten all of that you stupid man. What I’d like to know is your true background and how you came to be in the service of the Royal Navy.” “I never told you I was in the Royal Navy.” “Well it’s bloody unlikely that you were on the side of the French during the battle of Waterloo.” She wanted to shake him silly. She was tired of this game of smoke and mirrors that

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

65

he was playing with her. She wanted some viable answers and she wanted them now. “I Miss am not indebted to tell you anything about myself. You know all that you need to know. Story over.” “No the story isn’t over. Ours has just begun.” Silence blanketed the room. Elizabeth stepped away from him horrified by what she had just betrayed. In this battle of wills she seemed to have just lost herself a very strategic position. “Elizabeth, do not try my patience.” “I shall do and say whatever I want to. I heard you in that room with that whore,” she said rounding on him once more. “It hardly seems fair that you know all about me and yet I know absolutely nothing about you.” “I do not know everything about you,” he said searing her with his scorching gaze. “Do not do that,” she chastised feeling her face flush red. “Do what? Miss you have me at a loss.” “Loss my arse. You know exactly what you are doing. And you may kiss that plan of ruination goodbye. I will not be inclined to have you in my bed now that I see the sort of company you once enjoyed.” “Must we continue to tarry on about Chastity?” “We must!” “She means nothing to me.” His eyes were earnest and yet she doubted the flickering glint that had entered them briefly. “I do not believe you. She meant enough to you to induce you to marry her.” “She was never my wife in the truest sense.” “Aye perhaps you did not conjugate the marriage but I suspect she has jumped in and out of your bed on many occasions before and after the blessed vows.” “This is not the type of discussion that I would expect a polite well-bred young lady such as yourself taking part in.” “My father had a good deal of mistresses. I know all about the goings on between a man and woman. I do not need you to draw me a bloody picture to know what Chastity once meant to you. The woman nearly gobbles you up with her eyes. If I didn’t know better I’d think you were a platter of meat.” “Chastity and I share a history. Let us leave it at that.” “You shall not dissuade me with your stonewalling. I want some answers and by God I shall have them. You may tell me or I shall go and ask that bloody tart of yours.” “You will stay where you are Miss.” His tone had turned perceptively cold and had she not known him to be such a lamb when it came to handling her she would have feared him. “Do you not have things in your past that you would rather leave in the past? I would like to forget what I once shared with Chastity. Why are you making me dredge up something that shall only cause us heartache for both of us?” “I have numerous things that I would rather leave in the past. But as it is I cannot. I live with them on a daily basis. And not only are there things that I’d rather forget but there are also events that I yearn to recall.” He stopped short at that and glanced at her in a most funny way. “What sort of events?” his voice had dropped and it warmed considerably. “The sort of events that are none of your bloody business. Besides I am under no duress to tell you anything. Do not think that I will fall under your spell. You shall not tell me anything so I shall reciprocate in kind.” His snub still stung her deeply and though she didn’t want to

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

66

admit it she desperately wanted to know who he was. Was his true name even Rafe? He knew her Christian name and yet she suspected that he knew much more than that. Seeking to impress upon him further she stepped back toward him and stared him straight in the eyes. “You shall not kiss me and yet you willingly let that thing to plaster her lips all over yours.” “Jealousy becomes you my dear.” “Jealousy be damned. That isn’t what I feel toward the relationship that you have with Chastity. Let us get a few things straight here sir.” “Only a few?” he asked stepping toward her and causing her to back up in defense. His breath caressed her face and she felt a thrilling tingle strum through her. “You are trying to waylay me again sir.” “I do no such thing,” he said innocently. He blinked his magnificent blue eyes and God help her she went along with each and every one of the damnable twinkles. His eyes sparkled and in turn they caused her eyes to fill with stars. She hated the influence that he could command over her. It was not to be tolerated. He was only a lowly sea thief. She was one of the most respected and sought-after women in all of Europe and America. She had turned down scads of proposals and she knew deep in her heart that had Rafe not come along and swept her away she would have most certainly died a withered up old maid. It did not settle well with her. His eyes reminded her of someone’s yet for the life of her she could not recollect who that someone was. “Come a little closer to me,” he invited. His voice lulled her along. But she would not be persuaded. “You, sir, may discard your bloody theatrics. I can see past your intentions. You hope to dupe me into that bed.” She gestured toward the bed and a smirk played at the corner of his mouth as he widened his eyes in ignorance. “I would think of doing no such thing.” “Fustian nonsense!” She cried out slamming her balled up fist against his chest. He caught her fist before she could pull it away and held it up close to her heart. Disturbed she tried to wrench it away from him but yet again she was reminded of his superior strength. He nearly undid her when he grazed her knuckles with his lips. Hot fire coursed through her. She was becoming weak-kneed and if she didn’t take care she would collapse into a wet puddle. “Rafe you must cease this at once.” “I do not follow you my dear. You asked me to kiss you and so I am only following your instructions.” “This was not what I meant.” “Aye I know. But you wanted me to kiss you on the lips and at this point I’d rather not. I believe that a kiss should only be shared between lovers and you have already stated that we are no such thing.” “Yet you would lure me into your bed?” “I’ve never been inclined nor desperate enough to lure a woman into my bed. In fact they are normally more than willing to launch themselves into it and be damned with the consequences.” “You are actually proud of your reputation as a rakehell are you not?” “It does as they say precede me.” He gave her a wide grin and her heart flip-flopped at the dazzling brilliance of it. She couldn’t help herself. She began laughing and lost all of her fight when he pulled her to him. It would be folly to try and escape him now. Instead she would let him come into her

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

67

little web. He would find soon enough that she was a master weaver. He leaned down toward her and caught her around her waist. She let out a squeal as he whisked her off of her feet and pulled her up to kiss her cheek. Then he nibbled at her ear and moved down to rain delicious kisses upon the side of her neck. She could not explain the emotions that were rioting through her. She was quite literally lost on a wave of emotion. The ship rocked beneath them and tilted to one side. Since she was in Rafe’s arms she didn’t have to worry about losing her balance and falling on her backside. Rafe possessed the best of sea legs and he used them quite well to carry her over to the bed. “Kiss me,” she murmured. He met her lusty gaze and she could feel the stirring that worked inside of him. He wanted to kiss her and claim her lips with his. But there was wariness in his eyes almost as if he feared contracting the plague from her. But if he thought that she was about to throw caution to the wind without at least having her way then he was sadly mistaken. “My world for a kiss,” she murmured. His hands cupped her breasts. He pulled her toward him and lifted her off her feet. Before she knew it he’d carried her over to the bed. All the while ignoring her request for a kiss. The ships bell tolled anxiously and Rafe’s eyes slipped away from hers. “Damn,” he muttered staring anxiously around the cabin. The moment had been broken and he was already straightening and tugging his shirt back into place. “What is it?” she asked. She suddenly realized that she still wore her nightgown. She needed to change into something more sensible if she were on the brink of another adventure. “That is a warning signal,” he muttered. “Listen!” “I don’t hear anything,” she said shaking her head. She was concerned about him. He seemed to be quite uneasy. “Exactly!” He moved toward the chest and began pushing it aside. “Rafe I do not understand. What are you about?” “Ethan and I have a signal system rigged. I don’t have time to explain but we need to get off of this ship straightaway.” “I beg your pardon?” “I should have known. I should have spotted it sooner. What was I thinking! Ethan will have a good time with this one,” he muttered. “Why didn’t I see that it was a ruse? Bloody fire ships! I’ve experienced that particular trick before and nonetheless I fell for it again. I’m a right and proper fool.” “Right you are there,” she muttered jumping off the bed and moving toward him. He gripped her wrist and pulled her toward him. “Do you trust me?” “Well that’s a bloody loaded question. You kidnapped me!” She remarked. He heaved a heavy sigh and stared at her with his piercing eyes. They were filled with seriousness and she knew that for now the time for jesting was past. “Elizabeth …” he waited for her answer. “I trust you more than I trust Chastity. Is that good enough to satisfy your curiosity?” “Yes and thank God for that. Stay here I’m going to check to see if the coast is clear.” “Wonderful. You go do that.” He returned in scant seconds and held his hand out toward her. “We’ll be escaping by the skin of our teeth you know.” “Well that’s a funny thought. Me escaping with my own kidnapper.” She snorted loudly looked down at his hand and gripped it firmly. “Very well. Onward sir I see no point in dallying

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

68

around. Though I do not see why we must escape I shall go along with you. However might I point out that I believe you have gone just a wee bit barmy?” “You may. And I’ll explain our escape to you in a summation of one word. Chastity.” “Ah so she’s the witch behind the warning. I can understand her being the root of this evil.” Her mind still couldn’t grasp his full meaning. But she didn’t like the way that he was acting. It had to be quite serious if he was this worried. “Whatever happens Elizabeth be brave and know that I would go to the ends of the Earth to keep you safe.” “For what is worth I think that I am finally beginning to believe you.” They emerged into the Captain’s cabin and then he opened the door quietly. “Stay close to me. With all luck they will be busy with the rest of the crew and they won’t realize we’ve made a run for it until it is too late.” “But why are we running?” “Because my dear girl if we remain here Chastity will no doubt slit your throat.” “Oh is that all? Well then lead on lead on.” She hadn’t liked this Chastity to begin with but now she thought more of the swine in the pigpen than she did of her. “You’ll have to climb down the side of the ship with me it will be the only way to keep things quiet.” “We shall make quite the pretty picture. Fancy it a pirate and an heiress running away from their own ship. First it was mine and then it was yours and now it’s hers. Seems it has made a full circle. My father purchased it and he was a no-good rotten fellow and now Chastity has it under her wing and she’s the rottenest woman that I’ve ever had the displeasure of coming across. How could you make love to her?” “We don’t have time for your endless prattling right now and just to ease your mind— love had nothing to do with what Chastity and I shared,” he muttered. She watched as he climbed over the side and then she followed his lead. He lent her a helping hand but she found that she really didn’t require it. “Where did you learn to scale a ship like that?” “I climbed trees when I was little and I’ve climbed out of my bedroom window on more than one occasion.” “Why Miss Elizabeth I would never have pegged you for a certified hell raiser. You’re quite the wild one.” “Well that just goes to show that appearances can sometimes be deceiving. Take Chastity for example. She looks like an angel but acts like the very devil himself.” “Shush,” he murmured. They were but a drop to the waterline. “Where do we go once we are in the water?” “How about you come right back up here?” Chastity murmured popping her head over the side of the ship just as they splashed into the water. “Uh oh,” Elizabeth muttered. Her eyes widened as Chastity directed her pistol straight at her. “Seems my bloody luck just ran out.” Rafe was coming toward her but she didn’t want him to get shot instead. She shut her eyes just as Chastity pulled the trigger. The last thing she heard was the earsplitting sound of gunfire ripping through the air.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

69

Chapter Seventeen Mallory could feel his entire world slipping away from him. He dove under the water for the quickly sinking form of Elizabeth. He could distantly hear Chastity’s triumphant hoot but he had to put it out of his mind. There were far more pressing matters to attend to. He reached Elizabeth in no time and scooped her lifeless form into his arms. He knew he had to swim as far away from The Valiant as was possible. Though Chastity had succeeded in overtaking the frigate his other ships would have been well warned of the deception thanks to Ethan’s quick thinking. The rest of the fleet would no doubt be on guard. The key was to reach The Red Dawn without being discovered. Once there they would be safe. He emerged out of the water and gasped for air. Elizabeth let out a little moan and her head lolled from side to side. He skimmed his hands over her body but could not find any sign of a wound. “Where is the pain?” he asked when her eyes fluttered open. She stared at him for a moment as if she didn’t recognize him. “You know I was hoping that the last few days were but a dream.” “Now what do you think?” “Now I’m wishing that Chastity had a surer aim.” “Elizabeth why did you go under then?” “I thought that it would fool her and it did,” Elizabeth said brightly. “I trusted that she wouldn’t be too swift. I’m so glad she didn’t let me down.” “Are you strong enough to swim on your own power?” “I think so. But you know you owe me a full night’s sleep.” “A full night nestled in bed next to you. Yes I think that I could do with that.” As anticipated her face flushed with anger. “If we weren’t already in such a fix I would take a swing at you.” “And at this point in time I would gladly welcome it.” He grinned. “Oh good God,” she muttered treading water in one spot for a moment. “What about The Warrior’s Lady? Presumably they wouldn’t have recognized the signal that you and your band of pirates use.” “Bloody hell.” He hadn’t thought of that one. She was right. The Warrior’s Lady was most certainly at the mercy of Chastity and her band of merry men and women. “This isn’t what I need right now.” “Aye you are right there. But then I don’t think any one of us thought that you would allow a turncoat to board your ship. I mean here I thought you were the great feared Captain Morgan.” She snorted. “I try,” he muttered. He couldn’t believe what she was saying even though he had fallen head first in Chastity’s trap. Ethan had tried to warn him but he had forged ahead on his own without giving his first mates counsel a second thought. “Do you think we would have fared better if we’d stayed and fought?” she asked. “I’ve already told you what Chastity would have done to you if we had remained.” “Of course you did. But now Mary and Ronald are at her mercy.” “Trust me when I say this Mary shall be able to hold her own against Chastity. Ronald will no doubt be locked up with the rest of the crew.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

70

“And the babe?” “The babe shall be fine. Chastity is a great many things but even I do not believe that she would be capable of harming a baby.” Cannon fire rang out around them. “I think that The Valiant is at this moment engaging The Warrior’s Lady.” “They shall be fine. Come Elizabeth we must make it to The Red Dawn.” He glanced toward Elizabeth and watched as her expression became transfixed. “Dear God they aren’t faring so well,” she muttered. Fatigue lined her features. “Ronald will fight until the very end.” “I’m glad to hear that your Ronald possesses some back bone. However Chastity is more foolish than I ever gave her credit for. Not only will she be wanted by the Royal Navy now but she will also be wanted by the American Navy.” “Yes but she’s fired on an American ship by using another American ship.” “That only goes to show that she is an intelligent fool.” He grunted. “It gratifies me tremendously now to know that I learned how to swim. My father warned against it but my mother insisted.” “Well I shall be certain to say a prayer of thanks to your mother then. I’m very happy to know that I do not need to carry your lazy arse around the high seas.” “At least we have a calm sea.” “As to that how is your sea sickness?” “Fortunately I am no longer on a swaying ship so I seem to be just fine.” She flashed him a smile and he felt his heart warm. They needed to reach The Red Dawn as quickly as possible. They were sitting ducks in the water and had attacking Mary’s ship not distracted Chastity they would more than likely already be dead. The Red Dawn seemed to have spotted them for they were moving to intercept. “Sir,” the acting Captain of The Red Dawn called out. They dropped down a line for them and he encircled his arm around Elizabeth tightly. “Hang on,” he whispered as she plastered herself up against him. He tugged on the line and waited as they were heaved aboard. “Welcome aboard sir,” Harold Bartholomew greeted. Elizabeth was still clinging to him and he glanced down to gauge her reaction to Harold. Harold was a seasoned seaman. He had lost his arm in battle five years ago and his left eye had fallen prey to the French during the war with Napoleon. She blinked a few times and sighed softly but the for the most part she remained silent. **** “What is your plan of action Rafe?” she asked. He furrowed his brow and managed to just barely suppress his admiration. “My plan of action is to get you to safety.” “You can not be serious!” she said following him up the stairs to the command deck. “I shall not believe that you would be that callous.” “Chastity will no doubt deliver Mary and her child into safe hands.” She quickened her pace and nearly slammed into him when he stopped suddenly. “I must be laboring beneath a misapprehension then.” Her voice had turned cold and she was happy to see that it had caught his attention. He wasn’t shivering at all and the fair sea wind was rippling his sun-kissed hair. Ignoring the men around her she pushed her way to stand in front of him. “I thought you were a pirate. What’s more you even admitted to once being a King’s man. You

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

71

disgrace yourself. Mary is an innocent woman and her child is both vulnerable and innocent.” “The babe shall not be harmed and I do not think that you knew Mary long enough. She is a force to be reckoned with to be sure. Do not worry about her.” “If I was on that ship would you salute it as it pulled away? Whatever happened to making a stand? This is ludicrous. You have more ships at your disposal and yet you will allow Ronald and his ship to fall prey to the worst sort of people imaginable. Whatever respect I did hold for you sir has now been blown straight to hell.” **** He didn’t know what she was going on about. If he didn’t enjoy her little display so much that he would have already told her that he had all good intentions of pursuing Chastity. But he was willing to see what Elizabeth would do to encourage his pursuit. “I have the interest of my men to hold at heart. Taking you back to England and marrying you as soon as possible furthers that interest.” “You are a no good rotten bas ….” He held his hand up for her silence and she surprisingly clamped her mouth shut. “I have no time for your pitiful arguments.” She swayed slightly and put out an arm to steady her. “Are you all right or do you require the attention of the sickbay?” “I’m fine,” she murmured. “But you will not be if you do not assist The Warrior’s Lady. I shall give you the fight of your life if you do not do so.” “Shall you? Imagine that.” “If you give your help to Ronald’s ship then I will marry you willingly. As soon as we disembark we may make ready to marry.” “Indeed. Very well. I had not thought that you were so very eager. I hadn’t presumed that you felt so deeply about me.” He watched as Elizabeth scowled. “You sir disgust me.” Then she reached out for his arm as the ship made a sudden turnabout. “What is going on?” “Oh did I forget to tell you my dear? As soon as we boarded the ship my crew knew to assemble into fighting mode. We shall have one roaring hullabaloo once we open our gun ports and engage The Valiant.” “Rafe I swear you never cease to amaze me.” “Stick with me my lady and I’ll show you more adventure than your mind will ever be able to hold.” “Sticking with you now there’s a bet I’d rather not wager on.” She grinned at him. The Red Dawn’s cannon fire split through the air and targeted the topmasts of The Valiant. “Fancy trick but I’m afraid your men are a bit shy of the mark.” The shell missed the sheet and hit The Warrior’s Lady instead. “Christ’s teeth. Harold sort out the men. If they aren’t spot on this time I shall have a fit. We can’t afford another mistake like that again. Remember I want The Valiant back but I do not want it in tiny little pieces. And if anyone hits Mary’s ship again I’ll string them up by their toes. Do I make myself clear?” “Aye Captain. Clearer than a night without fog.” “Good man. On with it then.” He smiled at Harold and then turned back to Elizabeth. He loved the way that she looked with the sun glinting off of her hair. They only had a short amount of time with sunlight left after that they would be forced into waging a night battle. He hated night battles and tried to plan against them at all opportunities.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

72

“I do believe I may have been a bit rash in my judgment of you earlier. It was bad business on my behalf. I hope that you will take my apology I shall not jump to any such conclusions in the future.” “Truly?” he asked quirking one eyebrow. “Then you shall have my trust as well. Though my thoughts of you did not have to be influenced in any way I already have you high on a pedestal.” He watched avidly as that wonderful color peeked into her cheeks again. Then he noticed for the first time that she was shuffling from foot to foot with her arms up to shield her breasts. He quickly slipped out of his almost dry greatcoat and slipped it around her shoulders. “You could go down below no one would think any different of it if you did. You may reside in my cabin and be quite comfortable.” “And miss the rest of this battle? I think not!” She pulled the greatcoat closer around her shivering shoulders and leaned into him for some warmth. “Most women from your class of society would be shivering in their boots right now.” “Well to be truthful I am.” She grinned up at him. “Though as you can see I am not wearing boots.” She flexed her toes and he smiled. “Miss I swear you are a conundrum.” “Thank you. I shall take that as a compliment.” The Valiant’s gun ports opened and discharged at them. Cries of men surrounded him and Mallory gritted his teeth. The price of battle was always something he never took pleasure in. “Fire returning shots,” he cried out taking charge of the situation. “Let’s show that little bitch what we’re made of.” The men cheered and the fuses on the cannons were lit once again. They discharged and made several direct hits on The Valiant. “I hope that you are not planning on blowing them out of the water,” Elizabeth’s voice had dropped to a mere whisper. “My dear who is the battle expert here?” “You needn’t be so testy,” she muttered averting his gaze. “I’m just worried about the crew that’s all.” “Of course. As am I. I as assure you I shall not do anything to impede their safety. Though I am a pirate a good loyal and steadfast crew is hard to come by. My crew will stick with me through thick and thin and I will not do anything to lose my men.” “Chastity must harbor some ill will for you.” She mustered a tentative smile and he could tell that she was trying to get him to open up about his past. “Chastity harbors some ill will for me because I left her to hang from a yard arm of a Royal Navy ship.” His voice was flat and he kept his eyes pinned on The Valiant so he wouldn’t be forced to meet her gaze. He knew that Elizabeth would think he was a good for nothing brute. “I can understand why. But I wasn’t aware that The Royal Navy was in the sordid business of hanging women.” “Chastity is a well known pirate and she has terrorized many of His Majesty’s ships. The Captain of The Royal Navy frigate The Resolve didn’t realize that she was a woman until the last possible moment. By that time one of Chastity’s allies was on their way to aid her. The Resolve was boarded and any of the men that weren’t killed in the ensuing battle left the Royal Navy and joined in with Chastity.” Another volley of cannon fire was shot off at them and to Mallory’s horror a shell rolled onto the deck.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

73

“Rafe!” Elizabeth cried pointing horrifically at it. His men were running away from it and cries of panic consumed the ship. “Hells Bells,” he swore without thinking he ran toward it ripping off his still damp shirt as he went. The shell’s fuse sputtered out before Mallory could reach it. Amazed that it was defective he picked it up and tossed it a far distance away from the ship. He turned back to smile at Elizabeth and then it exploded. He heard ringing in his ears and he was thrown forward. He crashed against the deck and heard the pitter patter of Elizabeth’s feet as she ran toward him. “Rafe don’t you dare be dead!” she screamed falling to her knees. She rolled him over gently so that he was staring up at her. “Speak to me.” “What would you like me to say?” Stars surrounded her head and he felt as if his head were about to explode. “Would you please tell Harold to stop ringing the ship’s bell?” “You buffoon no one is ringing the ships bell. I do believe that the explosion has caused the ringing in your ears.” “Well then it shall pass,” he muttered. “Sir,” Harold said running toward him. “They are running up the flag of surrender.” “I do not believe it.” Mallory tried to push himself to his feet. “Chastity would not give in so easily.” “I don’t know about that. Perhaps she would.” Elizabeth bit her lip. “Or perhaps the crew was able to regain control of the ship.” “Highly unlikely though I do appreciate the positive attitude Harold. Give the order to bring us alongside The Valiant and assemble a boarding party.” “Aye, aye, Captain,” Harold said saluting him and went to carry out his orders. “I thought that your crew was made up of criminals and undesirables.” “As a matter of fact to my knowledge no members of my crew have ever committed coldblooded murder. But yes some of them have been accused of certain petty crimes. However numerous members of my crew have at one time or another been in the service of His Royal Majesty. So in essence I suppose that you would say old habits die hard.” “And which rank did you hold in the Navy? I would suspect that perhaps you were just a master of the ship or below.” He narrowed his eyes and bit his lip. If he told her that he had been a distinguished commissioned officer she would probably laugh in his face. For on the High Seas he was far away from the Royal Court and his circle of friends. He had the ear of many influential people when he was playing the part that he had been given at birth. “Let’s just say I was very close to the Captain of my ship.” “You were his steward then?” He coughed and smirked when she inhaled sharply at the sudden turn of the ship. The wind had picked up and the sheets on the sails were all still blessedly intact. Men climbed the riggings quickly so they could maneuver in an expedient manner. He glanced down at the corner deck and smiled when he noticed how quickly his men had assembled. Resting his hand on his Royal Navy Cutlass he smiled at her and then quickly ran down the steps to join his men. “Where do you think you are going?” she asked scurrying after him. “I dear miss am going to reclaim what is rightfully mine.” “That ship isn’t rightfully yours!” she shot back quickly pounding down the steps. “I wish to accompany you.” “Out of the question.” His voice had a finality to it which inspired her to crook her one

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

74

eyebrow. “I wasn’t asking.” She scowled at him. Her eyes were alive with burning anger and he nearly smiled. “You are too tired. You must rest.” He winked at her and then moved on. But unfortunately nothing he could say was going to dissuade her. She was close on his heels and when he suddenly turned around she nearly bumped into him. “Do you not know the meaning of no?” “This is coming from a bloody kidnapper and pirate?” She stamped her bare foot on the wooden deck. “Look across,” he said pointing toward the nearby ship. “This could all be a ruse to instigate a boarding party. If Chastity is indeed pulling a fast one she will no doubt give me one hell of a run for my money. There will be hand-to-hand combat that will scare the very wits out of you.” “I don’t scare easily. You do not scare me and Antonio did not scare me.” “Oh I think that maybe Antonio might have frightened you. He brings out the very worst in people. I’ve heard grown battle seasoned men shriek when they know he is approaching.” “I wish to be there by your side. If you give me your sword I shall be able to defend myself.” He nearly laughed at the ridiculousness of their situation. He didn’t want to take her with her but if he left her behind he might just have another encore performance that mimicked what had gone on when Antonio had boarded The Valiant. “Very well.” He sighed heavily. “You shall swing across with me.” Before he knew what had hit him she was in his arms. “You know a man could get used to this. Next time though I shall not allow you to sweet-talk me. You should be in bed. You will catch your death waltzing around half chilled.” “I have a hearty constitution.” “We shall see how hearty that constitution is once the blood starts flying.” “I do not have an aversion to blood.” He didn’t say anything further but he still had his reservations. With his crew by his side they embarked upon The Valiant. Men and woman streamed out at them with swords raised and pistols cocked. He drew his own cutlass and engaged one of Chastity’s men. Pulling his pistol he shot another. He looked wildly about for Elizabeth but she seemed to have disappeared. He heard a commotion going on behind him and turned just as a little boy came rushing at him with a sword held in both of his hands. Lovely now he was forced to fight mere children. At this rate his day was bound to go straight to the dogs.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

75

Chapter Eighteen Elizabeth picked up the discarded sword that lay upon the deck. Checking to see if the coast was clear she wandered away from Rafe and quickly made her way below decks. She could see that the only way she would be able to help was to free the men that were imprisoned below. She found them in irons and rushed to Seamus first. “Are you unhurt?” “Nothing that a good stretch and a wee bit of sunlight won’t heal,” he said brightly. “We did lose some men in the ambush. Terrible woman that Chastity is.” She nodded her head and looked wildly about for the key. “You don’t suppose she would have left the key down here do you?” “As luck would have it the man that imprisoned us seems to be related to the village idiot. He left it on the wall over there. We would already be free except that our legs are shackled,” Ethan muttered. Elizabeth riveted her eyes on Rafe’s first mate and let out a shocked exclamation. “Dear God Ethan what happened to your face?” “I seem to have hit it against the floor of the deck a few times.” He grimaced and she felt her heart soften toward him. She could understand why her mother had been so infatuated with Ethan. He was a very handsome man even for his advanced years. “I shall have you all free in no time at all.” She hurried over to the key and grabbed it off of the wall. “Quickly now we must hurry. Do you suppose any of the weapons will be left in the armory?” It didn’t take her long to free them all and soon the twenty or some odd men were up and about stretching their limbs. “You stay here miss,” Ethan said coming up next to her. “Give me that sword I will go up on deck and help the Captain.” She wanted to tell him to shove it and get his own sword but suddenly she didn’t quite feel like the trouble it would cause her. She handed him the sword and pretended that she was doing a mock surrender. But instead of following his order to remain behind she pursued Ethan. Yet nothing could prepare her for the sight that met her once they reached the quarterdeck. “Oh no!” she muttered. Rafe lay motionless on the ground and she feared that he was truly dead. Battle was still being engaged all around her but everything seemed to move into slow motion as she dodged her way between combatants to reach Rafe’s side. “The little bugger got me on the knee cap,” he muttered his face almost purple with pain. “Can I help you?” she asked. She touched him gently and noticed him grimace. “Have you spotted Chastity yet?” His voice was returning to its normal timber and she took that as an encouraging sign. “Fortunately no,” she whispered. The sound of a man falling from the rigging met her ears and she buried her face in Rafe’s chest so that she wouldn’t see the broken body. “When we get back onto good dry land I do believe I shall kiss the ground beneath my feet.” “I shall greatly anticipate that moment,” he said slanting his mouth into a lopsided grin. “And when we get back onto dry land you shall release me. This foolish idea of forcing me into a marriage just shall not fly with me.” “You Miss are a most obstinate woman. Once I have obtained victory everything will be

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

76

as it once was. I still need your money and you well in due course you shall come to see that you need me.” “I do not think that will be as shortly as you believe. And as to the money matter you would have been far better off leaving me in Baltimore. My father is right at this moment on his deathbed and I have no way of knowing if the will shall be tampered with or not. By the time we reach England I may discover that I am as penniless as you. You must be a very greedy man for even I cannot fathom why you need my wealth. You are a free spirited man and you have no responsibilities to speak of.” “You do not know what you are saying. There are things about me that you cannot even imagine. Why perchance didn’t you just tell me when we were in Chesapeake Bay that your father was on his deathbed?” “I wasn’t exactly given the time was I?” she shot back as she helped him to get to his feet. Rafe’s men were doing an admirable job of keeping the fighting away from him since he had fallen. She could see Seamus through the fray of battle and she was happy to see that the Irishman was as good with his fists and a sword as he was with a ladle and an oven. “You were hell bent on kidnapping me and nothing I could say would have convinced you otherwise.” “Well if you had told me that there was a possibility of you losing your inheritance I would have definitely reconsidered.” “Next time it happens I shall be sure to tell my kidnapper the whole story.” “There won’t be a next time. I’m never going to let anyone take you away from me.” “My aren’t we a bit possessive. You do know that you will have to tell me who you are eventually as I will find out when we are married.” “Now you want to get married,” he said giving her a triumphant grin. She scowled back and then shrugged her shoulders. “I try to make the best out of any situation. You say that you will not let me go so why should I expend the effort of fighting a losing battle?” “Why indeed.” Elizabeth looked up just as the first star appeared in the clear sky. “Would you like your coat back?” she offered waiting to gauge his reaction. “I do believe that you have wanted me to take you from the very beginning. After all you did have that pistol in your reticule.” “It was hardly worth wasting my shot on you.” She watched with delight as he winced. “You needn’t compliment yourself so much. I didn’t want you to take me. I just didn’t see the point in fighting you. Besides I’m used to it--men only want me because of my money.” “How many men have wanted you before me?” “Oh dozens,” she said flippantly. His face was becoming mottled with color and his eyes looked as if they were about to pop out of his head. “Let’s see there was the Baron of Redford and the Earl of Shepperton then the Viscount of Danby and …” “Enough I get the idea. “But not to fear dear Rafe. None of them had the charisma that you possess. The Baron was short and fat and didn’t know the meaning of body hygiene. The Earl had one foot in the grave and the Viscount had a penchant for men if you get my drift. Yet they all shared the same trait. They were all penniless titles.” “You don’t say.” A funny gleam had entered his eyes and she wondered about it. Leaning in further she touched his cheek gently. “But I do not think I shall have to worry about discovering that you are some penniless

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

77

Earl Viscount or Baron.” “Miss Elizabeth I can assure you that I am by no way of the imagination an earl viscount or baron. I’m not even a baronet.” “Does your knee still smart?” “It is passing but I appreciate your concern.” “Then why do you have that pinched expression on your face?” “Does social position matter much to you?” “Of course not. I am not a shallow person no matter what your former opinion was of me. By the by if you did marry me we wouldn’t have to stay on your ships all of the time. I would be happy to have all of your sisters and mother live with me. I do believe I would take great pleasure in having a family around me.” “Would you indeed?” He smiled softly and her heart skipped another beat. “I think that my sisters and mama would keep you on your toes.” “Of course they’d have to get used to living an idle rich life.” “Would they?” he remarked raising one eyebrow. “I shall have to tell my mother that in my next letter to her.” “Where does your family reside?” “We have had numerous residences during my lifetime. But I’ve lived for the most part between London and Cornwall.” She shuddered and then smiled. “So that was probably how you got mixed up into joining The Navy wasn’t it? You were probably caught wandering the docks.” “Let’s just say The Navy was an interest shared by both my brother and I.” “So you have a brother as well.” She was finally beginning to learn a bit about his past and he was opening up to her in the middle of a battle of all places. “I had a brother.” His face had darkened and she closed her mouth suddenly. “I’m sorry.” “You shouldn’t be. He died a hero.” “Of course he did. His captain must have been very proud.” “The whole damn Navy was proud. He took down three French frigates before he lost his own life.” “Then he manned the cannons?” “Let’s just say he did a little bit of everything on the ship.” “Jack of all trades then.” “You could say that.” She drank him up with her eyes for he was a sight to behold without his shirt. “Well we got a bit sidetracked. I take it that you do not want your coat back?” “I’m fine for now,” he muttered training his eye on the distance. She followed his gaze and her mouth gaped open when she caught sight of a boy not far off training a pistol on them. He was holding it with both hands and seemed about ready to fire. “So would I be right in assuming that’s the little bugger that hit your kneecap?” “You would be correct. Get down!” he shouted just as the boy discharged the pistol. She crashed to the ground with his body thrown protectively over her. Her hand slipped and brushed against the rippled muscles of his chest. She swallowed thickly and tried to pretend that the close contact had not affected her deeply. She peeked out over his shoulder and watched as Chastity appeared out of nowhere and ripped the pistol out of the boy’s hands. “Charles you should watch your manners. After all if you shot and killed your father it

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

would not look good now would it?” “Father?” Elizabeth asked as all of the blood drained out of her face.

78

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

79

Chapter Nineteen Well this was definitely unexpected. Elizabeth stared between Rafe and Chastity. She didn’t know what to make of this latest revelation. “Son?” Rafe asked hoarsely. He looked as shocked as she felt. Elizabeth tried to push Rafe off of her and after another stunned moment or so he finally moved off of her and extended a hand to help her to her feet. “Are you unharmed?” he asked quickly darting his gaze between Elizabeth and the boy that was supposedly his son. “Aye but you have a more pressing matter to attend to.” She looked pointedly at the boy hoping that Rafe would get the gist of the situation. “I did not know,” He stammered. His beautiful blue eyes had darkened to that intense cobalt blue color again. Emotion rolled off him in waves. “Rafe you must keep it together. I am not overly surprised. Many men have oodles of bastards running around. You will not be the first nor do I suppose that you will be the last.” “This is ludicrous. I should have known. I can’t imagine Chastity bearing a child leastwise keeping the child.” “Rafe you must take responsibility for that boy. Look at him he’s skin and bones.” “He seems to be in the very image of his no good mother. I wouldn’t think that would put him the greatest light for you.” “Nonetheless you must give him a chance. Look at him! He’s wearing little more than rags. He’s obviously not well taken care of. He needs a bath he needs some hearty food and he needs someone that will love and take care of him!” “Oy what is that you just said?” Chastity called out dashing down to pull the child to her. “I do right by my little man I’ll have you know.” Elizabeth stared steadfastly back at her not willing to allow the little scalawag to intimidate her. “Chastity I don’t believe you.” Rafe’s voice was cold and filled with little noticeable emotion. Elizabeth looked around the ship and noticed with relief that in the few moments of confusion Rafe’s crew had somehow managed to take control of the ship. Elizabeth’s heart ran a race against her ribcage. She would never be able to marry Rafe. There were too many secrets about him that he seemed undoubtedly unwilling to share. She didn’t know how they were going to get out of this one. “Captain Morgan,” one of Rafe’s men called out pointing back to the stern of the ship. But Rafe seemed unable to focus on anything else but staring at the boy that Chastity had introduced as his son. Instead Elizabeth looked to where the crewman pointed. Her eyes widened and for a few bone-chilling moments she lost the ability to speak. Then when she did regain her composure her voice came out as little more than a strangled croak. “Rafe!” She muttered gesturing wildly while she pulled on his arm. “You might want to look smart and give your attention over here.” “Miss can you not see that I am trying to deal with something here?” “Aye I can you silly man. But if you do not pay attention at once all of our efforts will be for naught.” At that moment he turned around and his jaw dropped ever so slightly. Folding her arms

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

80

over her chest she stared at him smugly. “There you see?” “Make ready. Clear for action!” He called out as Ethan’s head pivoted around. “Son of a bastard,” Ethan muttered scrambling toward them. “Take Chastity and her crew down below.” “Oh I think not. Now that I see my ride has finally arrived I shall be taking my leave.” Elizabeth and Rafe turned around at the same time and let out synchronized gasps of horror. “Rafe,” she said clutching urgently at his arm. “You can’t allow her to slaughter that boy. She’s more of a bitch than I originally thought.” Elizabeth had never seen such cold maliciousness. Chastity held the boy to her chest and she had the blade of her dagger pressed against his throat. The boy was wide-eyed and seemed genuinely scared witless. This didn’t seem to be in their plans. Elizabeth on the other hand had suddenly forgotten how to breathe. She could not fathom such a horrible woman. To think that Chastity was willing to kill the child of her own body just so she could elude imprisonment. “I have no intentions of allowing her to kill the little brat. He might be a little hellion but he’s still just a kid.” “Rafe!” she chastised. “Well might I remind you that he did try to …” “Aye I know what he tried to do. But with Chastity as his mother however would he know any different?” “Duly noted,” Rafe muttered moving forward toward Chastity and Charles. “Chastity hand him over here and I’ll allow you and your crew safe passage.” “Do you think I’m that foolish? You might decide to have a sudden change of heart once I hand the little braggart over. You know sometimes I wish that you had never swelled my belly with him for he is a troublesome little bugger. He’s as stubborn as you and then some.” “Chastity please. You can see Antonio’s ship swiftly approaching on our portside. Allow the child to come over here unharmed.” “I should keep him you know. It would be something to take back to England with me and show your family. I would be sure they would be quite surprised to have their hero son found out to have sired a whore’s bastard.” “Chastity I do not have the time for this.” “Take him then. You both deserve each other.” She shoved Charles toward him and the young boy went toppling forward. Rafe moved to catch him just as Chastity pulled her pistol. Seeing that she was about to shoot either Rafe or Charles Elizabeth rushed into action. Without thinking she charged the larger woman and knocked her off of her feet. With the force of their collision the unreliable firearm went off. Elizabeth swore as something resembling that of a bee sting pelted into her arm. “Bloody hell,” she muttered. Chastity pushed her off of her and she went rolling across the deck. Her head was pounding and darkness loomed in front of her eyes. “Elizabeth!” Rafe’s frightened voice carried through her pain induced haze. She reached up to wrap her hand around her left arm and felt sticky hot blood. “Just what I needed,” she muttered groaning aloud. Now they were going have to do battle with Antonio’s men as well. She strained to hear what was going on around her. Little hands touched her forehead and she looked up at the grimy face of Rafe’s son. More cannon fire cracked out around them and she gritted her teeth together to fight off the pain.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

81

“You’ll be alright. I’ve seen much worse,” Charles muttered staring earnestly down at her. “Me ma’s bite is much worse than her bark.” “Are we winning?” She tried to sit up but the small boy pushed her back down again. “You got to keep your head down miss. It makes a fine target it does.” He flashed her a cheeky grin and she wondered why Charles had tried to hurt Rafe. “Me ma won’t stick around for long. She knows that she’s fighting a losing battle. But I fear that she’ll be back someday.” “I hope that day never comes. I’m glad to be rid of her.” The clanging of steel crashing against steel still rang out around them and the loud noise of pistols discharging nearly split her head in two. She felt as if she were dying. This couldn’t be how it was all going to end. She’d never know what might have happened between she and Rafe. Was Charles really his son or was it just some fanciful story that Chastity had created? She could hear a man’s shout of pain and then Rafe dropped to his knees in front of her. “You nearly got skewered my love,” he murmured good-naturedly. Reaching toward her he pulled her against him. He inspected her wound and then breathed a sigh of relief. “Ah it’s just a graze. You shall recover.” But she didn’t believe him. She felt horrible. “Where is Chastity?” “She’s running with Antonio. Ronald’s men came to assist us and not to worry we’ve proven to be more than a formidable match for them. But I don’t think it’s the last of them that we shall see I’m afraid.” She tried to smile for him but just couldn’t seem to muster up the energy. “Sort of like a bad dream,” she muttered coughing. “Aye you could say that.” “Being with you is dangerous to my health.” He smiled down at her and his eyes filled with regret. “I did not think that any of this was going to happen. I would go through hellfire to keep you from harm.” “I do believe that I may just believe that.” She smiled and then looked toward Charles. “You never told me that you had a child.” “As I already stated I had no idea. It would seem that Chastity was keeping him as a pawn to work into her little plan for me.” “He is but a child. What have you planned for him?” “I shall find him a home.” “Why do you not just take him home with you?” “That my dear is out of the question. My home is not a place for him.” She could feel her world slipping away from her. But before she succumbed to whatever pulled at her she needed to get an answer to one question. “Who are you Rafe?” “I am your faerie prince.” The very bottom of her world slipped away from her as a rolling sensation welled inside of her. “No you cannot be!” “Oh aye I am.” His eyes sparkled and her stomach continued plummeting. “You bastard,” she muttered just as her eyes closed and she was pulled into another world.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

82

Chapter Twenty The battle was over. Antonio’s ship had headed away on an alternate course. For the life of him Mallory could not figure out why Antonio hadn’t stayed and fought until the bitter end. He shook his head and stood up to stretch his legs. Mary had been gracious enough to come over to The Valiant to attend to Elizabeth’s wound. He frowned and sighed. In this little adventure of theirs Elizabeth kept receiving the wrong end of the stick. He wished to God that he could take back everything that had happened to her. He rubbed his hand over his growing beard and turned away from the window to stare back at Elizabeth. He had told her that he was her faerie prince but she was the one that resembled a faerie. Her long raven locks flowed over the pillow and her face froze in a most entrancing expression. He walked toward her and reached his hand out to take a hold of hers. He did not know what to say to her about the boy named Charles. He suspected that Charles was indeed his son for under all of the dirt that was smeared across his face he closely resembled the St. Martin side of the family. If only life had been different for them. If they hadn’t been discovered in the maze on that fateful night ten years ago Charles could have been their son. He had never forgotten Elizabeth and now that they had begun their relationship anew he knew he would never get her out of his system. He had told her that he was her faerie prince but there was still so much that she didn’t know about him. What would she think when he told her that though he had many influential and rich friends in England he was too proud to accept money from any of them? Instead he was willing to kidnap an innocent woman so that he could take her money away from her? He was a coward and a wretch. He stood back up and walked to the window. He was restless and he didn’t know what to do to calm his nerves. “So that was why you wouldn’t kiss me.” A soft voice said from the bed. He whirled around and riveted his eyes on her. Elizabeth stirred emotions within him that he had never known possible. Even now he wanted to submerge himself in the bed and take her and make her his own. “If you had kissed me your charade would have been revealed.” “Aye.” He didn’t know what else to say for at the moment the emotions he was feeling could not be expressed in words. “I understand now. Though I daresay I should have recognized you from the beginning. I should have remembered you. My heart carries the memory of you and yet I did not see you for who you were. Forgive me.” She averted her gaze as a pink blush streamed into her cheeks. “It is I that should be begging for your forgiveness. I should have never taken you hostage. I was a bloody pillock and I shall never be able to make it up to you.” “Do you know how long I have longed for the love that we shared that night?” “Aye for I have felt the same way.” “The skeptics say that love at first sight is not possible but I say pooh to that. I knew that I was in love with you from the very first moment I laid eyes on you.” Her voice dropped off as she turned her head away from him on the pillow. She heaved out a great sigh and then looked back toward him. “I shall be your servant forever,” he said raising her hand to his lips. “Rafe we can not pretend that things have not changed. I am much older and much wiser.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

83

He laughed and her eyes silently chastised him. “It is true. I was but a young girl then. I had no idea of the ways of the world. And you seemed so much more carefree. Why, I thought you were a faerie prince, you seemed so happy. Now there is a cloud about you that never seems to lift no matter how happy you are. It troubles me Rafe.” “You should not allow my life to trouble you. I will not have it.” “Why did you become a pirate?” “I needed to eek out an existence for myself.” He shrugged his shoulders and turned away from her. “You do not know the life that I was born into.” “It must have been very hard for you.” A dry laugh escaped him and he turned back to her with one eyebrow raised. “Oh aye it was a difficult cross to bear.” He turned away and rolled his eyes. If she found out the truth she would be horrified that she had ever felt sorry for him. He had been a veritable spoiled prince when he had been young. His mother and father had showered their children with endless love and all of the wonders that their wealthy position could afford. “My arm feels as if it has been bandaged,” she mused clearly seeking to change the subject. Oh aye she would make him a good wife for not only was she quick to pick up on things but she was always ready to invent another subject. “I asked Mary to come and attend to you. Fortunately for me she was a dear and complied immediately. I do not know how your arm would have fared as none of my men have the healing skills that Mary possesses.” “And Charles?” she asked softly searching his face for any sign of trouble. Her wide brown eyes gleamed with worry and he wanted to lean down and kiss away all of her troubles. “The boy is fine.” Mallory sighed and raked his hand through his hair. In truth the boy was far from fine. She was right. He was naught but skin and bones and his appetite had nearly depleted all of their stores. But Seamus had had a right proper time lavishing the lad with food. “I am glad to hear of that.” She smiled and then sat up cautiously. He raked his eyes over her. She touched her hair self-consciously and he smiled at the sweet gesture. “Well I’m sure that you won’t want to spend all night in my cabin.” “Oh I can’t think of anything better to do,” he whispered leaning forward. Her eyes were shining and instead of seeing hatred or any other sort of negative emotion he just saw the woman that he had first fallen in love with. She was a vulnerable woman and her generous heart was definitely one that he would never break. Why she was the sort of a woman that could finally cure him of his wicked ways. He was going in for the kiss and had nearly claimed her ripe for the taking lips when he heard something that made his blood still. “Yuck can’t you two wait to do that?” Mallory turned around to set his eyes on the eight-year-old boy that had his head stuck through the secret passageway. The boy was really too much. In fact he reminded him of himself. That could be a good thing or a bad thing. Wincing he jumped up from the bed and made to lunge for Charles. The boy squealed and shut the door in his face. “That isn’t any way to treat your son now is it?” Her voice held a hard edge to it and he turned back to her completely at a loss for words. “What would you have me do? That boy has been running wild for far too long.” “Well you know he probably can’t help himself.” “Yes well when I’m through with him he will behave like a lad his age.” “Rafe you can’t be considering hurting the poor dear.” “Poor dear?” he scoffed and then snorted. “That poor dear is right handy with wielding an

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

84

oar I’ll have you know. And furthermore if we don’t take his naughty behavior in hand he will grow up to be a right proper monster.” “Rafe please allow me to talk to him.” He cringed as she yet again employed the moniker that he detested so much. He was truly tempted to tell her his real name but he knew that if he did that he would be testing his luck. “You are too tired.” “No actually I think I could do with a bit of a stroll.” “A stroll? I shall have to get you bloody body armor to go and deal with that braggart.” “Rafe really you should stop calling him such names! Why you even admitted yourself that there is the possibility that he is your own child.” “A slight possibility,” he grumbled. “Well if he is your son don’t you want to get to know him?” “Not particularly. If he’s my son and Chastity is his mother he can no doubt be up to no good.” “Rafe!” That was it! He was going to have a meltdown. “Woman if you call me by that name again I shall be forced to jump onto that bed and make sweet love to you. After that is I secure that infernal door.” He slanted a sideways grin at her and felt his breath hitch in his throat at the defiant stare that she served him with. “Rafe,” she said dropping her voice so that it became sultry. His loins tightened and his grip on reality began slipping. He moved to the secret passageway and blocked it with his writing desk. Then he turned back to her and raising one eyebrow he strode toward her. “One last chance, my little miss.” “Oh, but I do like to play games that involve chance. As you already know I am a very lucky lady indeed,” she said her eyes twinkling. “Perhaps we should finally finish what we started that night ten years ago,” he mused eyeing her as if she were a delicious pudding. “Well it does take you a horrid amount of time to get anything done doesn’t it?” she teased grinning from ear to ear. He jumped onto the bed and grinned foolishly when she emitted a squeal of delight. “Just remember miss that you were the one that asked for my attention.” He loomed down toward her and advanced to her puckered up lips. “You must remind me to talk to Charles in the morning.” “‘Course I will,” he mumbled. Her lips were close so very close. He was just about to claim her petal like lips when a loud explosion rocked the very foundations of the ship. “Damnation. I grow weary of these inopportune interruptions.” “Perhaps the interruptions are a divined sign. Maybe we aren’t meant to be together.” He would have thought that she was deadly serious save for the twinkle that sparkled in her eyes. “I’ll be right back.” “I’m coming with you,” she insisted reaching for his dressing gown that was draped across the bottom of the bed. “Dear lady this time I do not think I shall even argue with you for you are a woman that could slay a dragon.” “Well I conquered you didn’t I? I think I’ve reached the status of dragon slayer.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

Wincing he twisted his mouth into a sour slant and then opened the door. “After you Miss Elizabeth.” “Why thank you Captain Morgan.” She curtsied to him and then swept through the doorway.

85

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

86

Chapter Twenty-One “Ethan what is going on here?” They walked up to the bridge and Elizabeth chanced to glance up at the bright stars in the sky. It was a magical night. A full moon glowed in the sky and she felt as if she were sailing on a faerie ship to a mystical realm. She stared over at Rafe and contemplated what they had almost done before they were interrupted. She would gladly give her body to Rafe now that she had an inkling of an idea as to who he was. He still hadn’t told her everything about himself but he was beginning to become more honest with her and that in itself was a relief to her. “This is what is going on,” Ethan replied hauling Charles up to the bridge. “Since he’s your brat you may deal with him. Do you know that he almost seriously hurt someone?” “Charles,” Rafe muttered staring sternly down at the boy. “I only wanted to put on a show for you and the miss.” “Aye not only was he about to put on a grand show but he could have blown us all from here to kingdom come.” “How?” Elizabeth didn’t know how the query had slipped out of her mouth but it had. All eyes riveted upon her including Charles’s. “I thought that I would put on a fireworks show for the Lord and Lady.” Elizabeth blinked and then shook her head. “Can you believe it Rafe? Charles has mistaken you for a Lord! Oh dear,” she said wiping tears from her eyes. “I do believe I require a handkerchief.” She caught Rafe’s scowl and wondered at the intensity of it. He really should see the humor in the ridiculous statement that Charles had made. Rafe was about as far from being a lord as her own father was from being a proper gentleman. “You tried to put off fireworks while onboard my ship?” Rafe seemed as if he were about to explode and that testy little muscle in his cheek bulged dangerously. “Rafe,” she said quickly stepping between him and Charles. “Might I remind you that this ship happens to be mine?” “Aye you needn’t remind me of that fact but as of now I am still its Captain so therefore it is my ship.” “I didn’t know that one of them was going to hit one of the Jolly boats. They was lucky that they were able to put out the fire before it spread,” Charles said earnestly shaking his head. “Lucky indeed.” His eyes widened to innocent proportions. “Do you even realize what you could have done?” Rafe raged trying to step past Elizabeth so that he could reach Charles. “I think he does. He didn’t think about what the consequences would be Rafe!” “Well I did put on a pretty spectacle anyway,” Charles said. Elizabeth rolled her eyes and groaned. “Shut it, Charles.” She turned on the boy. “If you knew what was good for you, you would have already recognized that your father is this close to throttling you.” She held her thumb and her forefinger an inch apart to demonstrate her meaning. “Me ma always said he was a good for nothing lazy arse that didn’t know how to do anything but go to his fancy balls and be the lor--” “That’s enough!” Rafe shouted his voice booming out over everyone. “You will go back

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

87

to your cabin. I have an inclination to stick you down below shackled with chains but, as it is, you are lucky that Elizabeth has spoken on your behalf. But take this warning seriously from me boy. If you ever do anything so dangerously reckless again I shall string you from the nearest mast.” “Rafe!” “Elizabeth I wish you would cease your endless reproving. This boy has been raised with wild untamed men and women. He obviously has no idea how to behave civilly. And if the braggart is going to come off of the ship with me he shall have to learn some manners.” “Why? So that he will be able to interact with your cronies at the nearest undesirable pubs?” “Elizabeth I have had just about enough of your impertinence. If that boy does anything else to endanger this crew I shall take it upon myself to give him a good sound slap across his rump. And if you continue to strain me to the ends of my rope I shall be tempted to do the same with you.” “You would never contemplate such a thing.” She stepped hastily away from him. “As I always have said in the past only fools and simpletons try to challenge the great Captain Morgan.” She lifted her chin and stared proudly at him. “I shall not be bent or broken by you.” “Uh Rafe,” Ethan said cautiously. “If you do not mind I think that I’ll go back to my cabin and try to get a few hours of sleep. That is if you do not mind.” He wore a smirk and was obviously trying valiantly to not erupt into gales of laughter. “Of course I’m sorry Ethan. Most of the men must be stark raving mad as they were most undoubtedly thrown out of their hammocks.” “Aye I would imagine. Just watch that little bugger. I wouldn’t trust him completely yet. He’s already skedaddled off no doubt on the chase to find more mischief.” “You needn’t worry about me Ethan. I’ll treat him just as I treat all of the other people that I am unsure of. I shall keep him at an arm’s length.” “You can’t be serious,” Elizabeth began as Ethan left the bridge. They were now alone with the helmsmen. Feeling as if they might be listening, Elizabeth moved to a safe distance. “You know my dear as you said the boy could be my son.” “Yes I know I said that. That is why you can’t attack him.” She clenched her fists at her side and rolled her eyes to the heavens. No matter how much she prayed for patience she doubted that she would ever have enough for Rafe. “Even though he could have caused someone to lose life or limb?” “Well I …” “And not to mention the fact that he could have burnt this bloody ship right up. If you hadn’t noticed this ship is comprised of a good deal of wood. Do you happen to know what happens when wood catches fire?” “Aye.” “Well then you shouldn’t be asking and telling me to do such utterly stupid things.” “You aren’t being fair.” “Don’t talk to me about being fair. This is all coming from a woman that couldn’t even recognize a man that she was going to have a romantic rendezvous with.” “That sir isn’t fair. I did not get to see your whole face that night. It was a masquerade ball if you will be so kind to remember. How was I expected to remember you? The light was not good out on the grounds and in the maze.” She waved her hands to the lit lanterns on the ship

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

88

to greater illustrate her meaning. “The light was good enough for you to agree to the lustful lovemaking we were both involved in.” She ached to kick him or slap him. “Do not go any further,” she warned almost realizing what the next thing would be that he would want to mention. “But then perhaps I wasn’t the only man that you let lure you to his bed of roses.” “Stop it!” She half said half shouted. She felt the hair on the back of her neck bristle. She stepped toward him and mustered all of the dislike she had for him. She would not allow him to get away with this anymore. Who the hell did he think he was anyway? No one besmirched her character. In London she was known as one of the most respectable single young ladies ever to grace society. “Am I riling you up yet?” he asked softly. The moonlight cast his shadow across the deck as it played across his features. “You are a most foul creature.” She licked her lips and grimaced when a bitter taste filled her mouth. “Lovely I see that your old self is back. Though I would daresay that you would have had to be a wee bit more careful when it came to being around your other paramours.” “You disgusting pig.” Without thinking she raised her one hand and had it arcing in an upward arc when he easily caught it. “Now, now, dearest, you must learn to follow the rules of the game.” His eyes were flickering in the moonlight and damn it all if she didn’t find herself entranced by their brilliance. “Go to hell! I rue the day that I ever set eyes on you.” “Really? The day that you set eyes on me I’d wager that you had your eyes set on something else of mine as well.” His horrendous innuendo hit home and she scowled and then pursed her lips into a thin unreadable line. “You are a vile horrible disgusting …” “Oh do go on. I love it when you’re all fired up,” He murmured grinning and flashing his teeth. She wanted to scream. So she did the next best thing. She ran away from him. “Silly goose you won’t get away from me.” He said running in hot pursuit. She stumbled through the deck and managed to make her way to the cabin without slipping once. As soon as she was inside of the cabin she stared wildly around for something to bar the door with. Finding the chest she was trying valiantly to push it over when the cabin door opened with a resounding crash. “This night you shall not have my mercy.” A thrill arced up and down her spine. Suddenly dry mouthed she stared up at him through half lowered lashes. “I thought that only Antonio was a man without mercy.” “Nay he was only but one of the two wild pirates that roam that High Seas without any mercy. He is one and I am the other. Although I guarantee you that by the end of the night you will be begging for no mercy over and over again.” “Oh I’m quivering with anxiety.” She sized him up and felt her heart go pitter-patter. His full breadth and wondrous size consumed the small doorway. She had been dreaming of this night for the past ten years. Now he would be hers for the taking and there wouldn’t be anyone to take him away from her. She’d be stuck with him completely once they stepped past the point of no return. “You do realize that I intend to ruin you.” “Oh aye and I shall take delight in every single moment.” She knew that her answer had

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

89

thrown him off guard for he seemed most perplexed. “I am going to lavish every inch of your body with my lips.” “Is that a promise?” “You can be most assured it is.” He moved toward her and threw his jacket off as he went. She was no shrinking violet. She would not allow him to be the only conqueror in this lovemaking. She was a free-spirited woman and she had been called a bluestocking on many an occasion. She may as well prove to him that American-born women were just as hot blooded as British-born women were. They collided together as if they were two battling ships in the night. “Do you know how long I have hungered for you?” “Is that why you truly kidnapped me?” She was breathless and felt her world slipping away from her when he undid her dressing gown. It slithered to a puddle on the floor and she wished that she could go along with it. “Nay that is not the reason. I took you because you are by far the most desirable heiress in all of Christendom.” “Aye, I know. As I said before, there are many men that share your same view.” “How many?” he asked. He broke away from her to stare deeply into her eyes. She studied his cobalt blue orbs for a moment and felt her heart swell when that same damnable muscle in his cheek twitched. “None but you ever entered my heart.” She buried her face in his chest and felt him gently kiss her crown of curls and then he slowly moved his hands through it. “You are by far the fairest woman that I have ever set my eyes upon.” “And Chastity?” she asked. She knew that she didn’t want to spoil their heavenly moment but she had to know about the woman that seemed hell bent on destroying their lives. “She means nothing to me. She never did. I only took solace in her arms when I believed that you were unreachable. But now that I have you I’ll be yours forever.” She listened to his heartfelt words and felt them sink into her very heart and soul. Here was a man that was one of the most feared pirates in the world and he was brandishing his heart on his sleeve for her. She was moved so much that she could feel tears welling in her eyes. “A woman could fall in love with you when you speak so poetically.” “You are most welcome to fall in love with me. For you already have my heart.” She forgot to breathe for a moment. He was telling her that he loved her and she was standing by stupidly trying to figure out what to say. She wasn’t accustomed to being tongue-tied but for the moment no worthwhile words were coming to her mind. He was her angel. He was her savior. But who would have thought that her own kidnapper would end up pulling her back from the brink of living an embittered life? “I have waited for this moment for ages. You should have come back to me as soon as I was of age.” “Life got in the way,” he murmured. He pulled her against him and she wrapped her arms around him. “Life has not been fair to us. We could have had many happy years together. Instead you went and squandered your life away on being a sea thief and I … I held stupid grand balls and soirees. But I never had the thing that I most desired.” “Your faerie prince. If I do say so myself that costume was an inspired one. There were a lot of women that were more than willing to turn a dance with me but you were the only one that commanded my attention.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

90

“How did you know who I was yet I didn’t know you?” “Do you not remember what your father’s friend said when we were discovered?” She nodded her head. Bradley Whitehaven could go to hell for all she cared. He had ruined a perfectly blissful moment between her and her love. He had called her by her first name. That was how Rafe had known who she was and how to find her. “I wish that he had have recognized you as well.” “That was highly unlikely. I am a man that does not desire the attention of other people.” “So you like to take on other personas?” Her question hung in the air and she swallowed past the lump in her throat when his eyes darted nervously to the side. He was still hiding something from her and she would have it out of him one way or the other. He averted the question and instead cupped her face with his large hands and claimed her mouth. His lips were hot and soft and made explosions go off all through her body. It was just as she had remembered for there was magic in his kiss and for as long as she lived she would always remember it. His was definitely a kiss to remember. He was so gentle. For such a rough and ready fighter he did know how to leave it outside of the bed. With his assistance she pulled her nightgown over her head. She opened her eyes and saw fire smoldering in his. They had turned that deep cobalt color again and she knew that nothing would save her heart from him tonight. But she would not tell him that she was his. He was waiting for it and she was unwilling to give that much power to any man let alone the man that could give her the greatest blow by shattering her heart. “Will you be mine?” his question seared into her very being and left her knees shaking. “I shall be yours for this night.” “And forever after,” he murmured finishing her answer for her. She was filled with uncertainty. She didn’t know if she could be his forever. She had been hurt too many times before in her life. How could she trust someone that wouldn’t even tell her about his past? He had an illegitimate child and yet the knowledge of knowing about Charles scared her less than not knowing anything at all. She could accept anything as long as he was honest with her. She could not tolerate someone that treated real life as if it were a game of whist. One simply did not gamble on those that they held nearest and dearest to their hearts. He was ready to be naked before her and next to her and yet he was unwilling to share his secrets with her. She could not understand whatever motives he harbored in his heart. “I shall worship you this night.” She could feel the last vestiges of her control slipping away. And she let her mind wander away from real life as she fell into her faerie tale land where only her faerie prince lived. She met his lips again as he showed her the full depth of his worship. For he was a man who took his craft very seriously. Raising her right hand to his lips he kissed it softly. Moonlight filtered through the small window in the cabin. It illuminated Rafe in his full naked glory. He looked like a Greek God with his rippling muscles and sun-kissed hair. Instinctively her eyes dropped to his groin. She swallowed. She knew what went on between a man and a woman but never before had she imagined such greatness. It was almost as if he was offering himself to her. She sat forward on the bed and watched his eyes sparkle when they trailed a path down the full length of her body. “You are exquisite.” His compliment made her lose her train of thought. This would be a much more intimate and memorable moment than their tryst in the maze would have been so long ago. Her skin tingled as his gaze continued to sear right through her. He leaned toward her and bathed her with the full power of his eyes. She was riveted.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

91

**** Mallory had never imagined her to be so beautiful. In the maze they had still been more or less clothed and though they had been caught just as he had been about to make her his--he’d never seen the full splendor of her body. He wanted to stay with her in this cabin for days … but they would only have one night. He knew Antonio would try to attack again. But … they had tonight. Claiming her lips again he molded his fingers gently around her one breast teasing the nipple until it was hard beneath his fingers. Then he kissed a trail down her neck and took the other breast into his mouth. Arching beneath him she leaned forward. He took his free hand and caressed her belly gooseflesh rippled across her abdomen. He had to be sure she’d enjoy the night ahead as much as she possibly could. He brushed his fingers through her the silky hair on her pussy. She was already slick and wet with her desire but he needed more. Elizabeth let out a delightful gasp and threw her head back when he gently placed two fingers inside of her tight opening. Finding her nub he stroked it gently. She reached out for him and pulled her close to her. Urgent need reflected in her eyes. Slowly he removed his fingers. She gasped. He placed his hands on her firm buttocks pulling her forward. Her eyes fell to his lower region. Gingerly she stroked the full length of his erected cock. As he took her to the very height of passion she let out a cry for she knew that no matter what came between them her heart would always remain with him even if she would never truly be his. She awoke the next morning feeling quite achy yet wonderfully sated. She stretched in the bed and searched for Rafe. Sighing she tiptoed to the door and opened it slowly. She nearly closed it again but there were voices murmuring and she couldn’t quite find the willpower to shut the door. “When are you going to tell her?” She tilted her head to the side when she recognized Ethan’s voice. “I don’t know what you are referring to,” Rafe’s voice answered. “Do not play daft with me Rafe. I know what you and she did in that cabin last night. Have you no shame? She is a woman from a completely different world. Whatever will your mother say when she finds out?” “My mother will love Elizabeth.” Ethan snorted loudly and then groaned. “I highly doubt that. When are you going to come to your senses and realize that you and Elizabeth will never be able to live happily ever after?” “We will live as we choose. I chose to love her and in time she will come to love me as well.” “Come? Oh for God’s sake Rafe I think it’s a little late for that don’t you?” “Shut up Ethan I shall not listen to this anymore.” “You will have to tell her who you really are someday. As soon as you arrive back in England you shall be recognized and you will be wanted and hunted by many. When will you do right by her and tell her your true identity? Shall you wait until you find out you have planted your babe in her belly or will you wait until you force her to marry you?” “I have never forced her to do anything.” “Then you had better tell her that the only reason you went after her was because of your vendetta against her father. Admit it Rafe the only thing you are concerned about is getting your hands on her inheritance.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

92

She had listened to enough. She felt sick. Shutting the cabin door softly she slinked down the length of it to the floor. Hanging her head in her hands she wept.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

93

Chapter Twenty-Two They ate their breakfast in silence. Mallory watched Elizabeth push her sausage and fried eggs around on the plate. “Would you like me to ask Seamus to prepare something else that would better suit your palette? I should have realized that since you were American you would be accustomed to different food.” “Beg your pardon? No. This breakfast is fine thank you. Must I continually remind you Rafe that I spent a good deal of time living in England? Actually the hearty food of the English suits me perfectly. I have just found that I don’t have much of an appetite as of now.” “You should try to eat some of that black pudding. It shall give you strength.” Elizabeth didn’t seem to have heard him for she had already pushed her plate aside and was reaching for the orange that sat on the platter in front of her. Taking a juicy piece she popped it into her mouth. Seemingly satisfied she continued chewing without sparing him a further glance. “I haven’t seen Charles out and about this morning so that is for now a blessing.” “That’s good.” Her answer was quick and to the point. Not at all the sort of conversation he was expecting after their love filled night. He would never get the feel of her body out of his mind. He had come home and he never wanted to stray again. Even now he believed that he could take her back to bed and not rise again until the next morning. “How many residences do you own in England?” He hoped that his attempt at polite conversation would make her a wee bit more talkative. He knew that she could not be all that sore for he had taken great pains to ensure her comfort last night. And she had not complained then so why was she acting as if he was the great big ogre now? “Oh I see you would like to start tallying how much you will gain by marrying me. Hand me the stationary from your desk and I shall endeavor to write down all of the names of my homes and where they are located. I could even give you figures of how much income those lands bring me per annum.” “Why are you being so defensive?” he demanded slamming down his napkin. “I am only endeavoring to make polite conversation.” “Ah I see. My apologies I suppose I was mistaken. But nevertheless you will be happy to know that I own four country residences in England and one rather large mansion on Grosvenor Square in London. Oh yes and I have a townhouse in Bath and in Brighton. Is that enough or would you like to purchase some more homes once you marry me? There are of course still my father’s lands which I have no control over until of course he dies.” She smiled serenely and he felt a hard clenching sensation in the pit of his stomach. If he hadn’t known better he could have sworn that she was mad at him. “That is impressive. But I do not give one fig about what you own or do not own. Once we are married I will take what I need to settle a few of my affairs and then the rest of the money shall be yours.” He stood up nearly knocking his chair over in the process. “How very generous of you,” She returned shortly finally staring up from her plate. “I can do nothing to waylay you. You have ruined me but there is one thing that you have not considered. I shall take the brunt of the blow that the ensuing scandal will of course cause. But I do not think I shall even have to worry about a scandal for you are a pirate and your name means

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

94

nothing in the ton.” He frowned and nearly got carried away by telling her his true identity. How would she react if she discovered that he was a duke? She would probably have a fit and he really didn’t want to have that headache on his hands right now. He meandered over to her side of the table and stooped down toward her. He gently tilted her chin up and stared her straight in the eyes. “You will marry me.” “I shall not. I am decided,” she proclaimed stubbornly. “Besides if you made me marry you then you would have to drag me kicking and screaming to the altar.” “After last night I highly doubt that.” “As to that you shall remove yourself from this room at once.” “Oh I don’t think so,” he sprawled back into his chair at a lazy angle. “Wild horses could not drag me away from your side. And you are hardly strong enough to kick me out yourself. I shall remain by your side until the bitter end.” **** She merely gaped at him and then closed her mouth. Flaring her nostrils she stood up and made her way over to the bed. She stared up at him suddenly and noticed that he was watching her every move. “Do not get any foolish ideas in your head.” “I have no such foolish ideas in my head.” He crooked his mouth into a lazy smile and stood up. “I was only thinking that I would have a bath drawn for you and that perhaps before that I would relieve you of your clothes and …” “Stop that right where you are.” Her voice was nervous and she was blushing profusely. He could tell that he was having an effect on her despite her protestations. Like a wolf he continued to stalk his prey. “You wanted me last night just as much as I wanted you. There was no ravishing done only on my part. In truth Miss Elizabeth you ravished me as much as I worshiped you.” “You speak scandalously. This is not the sort of conversation that unmarried people have.” “So that is what we are then eh?” he rubbed his quickly growing beard and settled his formidable weight on the mattress. “Here I thought that you were my intended and the woman that now shares my bed.” “Yes well that may be rectified.” If the conversation hadn’t been so serious in nature he would have burst out laughing for she seemed about ready to start fanning her face. He blew playfully on it instead and watched as her face became dark with color. “I have already told you that from now on we shall share different cabins.” “Ah but from now on you will remain in my bed. Though I trust most of my crewman I cannot be entirely certain that they shall not try to ravish you now that they know the pub is open.” Her eyes widened in shocked horror and little squawks of indignation were emitting from her mouth. Oh she was truly pissed off. This was just the way he liked her. Her passions were on fire now. All he had to do was push a little further. “After all you must know how men are inclined to behave when they know that the milk is there for free.” “You’re unbelievable! You wretched cruel …” “Yes I know I know. I’m a bastard!” He smiled at her and laughed when she finally lost it. She pounced at him screaming at the top of her lungs. She landed on top of him and he

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

95

grinned up at her while she fruitlessly slammed her tiny fists against his rock-hard chest. Then suddenly she stopped battling him. Her eyes protruded out of her head as she finally realized what was happening to him. She was arousing him and he knew that she must have been feeling the evidence of said arousal. “You were baiting me.” Her voice held a tinge of disbelief to it. “Aye and a rather fantastic performance I gave if I do say so myself. Yet I was deadly serious when I said that you were to stay in my bed. There is no way you shall convince me against that. I have had a taste of you and I do believe that my appetite shall never be sated.” To further accentuate his meaning he pulled her down and nipped her lower lip with his teeth. Then he consumed her lips with his own and reached to cup her buttocks beneath her dress. She moaned against him and he slowly began inching her dress up so that he could gain access to the pleasures within. Whatever fight she had fired up inside of her was slowly losing its intensity. She had her hands wound in his hair and she was pressing herself so close to him that he feared she was going to mold her body right to his. Then they did become one and she rode him as if a fire spewing dragon was hot on her tail. Afterwards he insisted on holding her in his arms though she did try to make a fast getaway. “I do not know why you persist in trying to run from me. On this ship there is absolutely no place that you can run to that will hide you from me.” She had not uttered one word or sound. Even when they had been in the throes of passion and on the precipice of release she had only let out little weak sighs. He did not know what to make of the whole befuddled mess. Honestly he felt almost inclined to hit his head against the wall. The woman was confounding him now even more than when they hadn’t shared intimacies. “One day I shall run from you and you will never find me.” Her voice was rife with conviction and despite himself he felt a shiver race through him. He tightened his hold on her almost afraid that even now she would slip away from him. “As I told you when we first met I have your scent and there is nowhere that you can run to that will keep me from you. I will search the ends of the Earth to find you. Only heaven would be able to shelter you and I pray that I will never lose you to that blessed realm until we are old and grey and even then I do believe I shall have to go first” Despite the fact that he knew she was determined to stay sore at him and have another bloody row with him she surprised him by actually chuckling. “I do not find the whole situation amusing,” he said gruffly twining his hands through her silky strands of hair. “Oh but I do. For you do not know what I am capable of.” “Oh I think I’ve gotten a taste of it this morning and all last night.” He chuckled huskily again and stared down at her. He hoped that she knew how serious he was about their relationship. He had been a right proper bastard with women in the past and he knew that he had even unwillingly broken a few hearts. But he would never ever break Elizabeth’s heart. For if he did he would be forced to rip out his own in self-loathing. “I need your love you know.” His words came out as the barest of whispers and he would not have even thought that she heard him had she not stiffened considerably. “Thank you,” She murmured. She shut her eyes and began breathing deeply. He continued to stroke her hair and her back but he didn’t know why she was trying to fool him. He knew that she wasn’t sleeping. For some reason she was trying to get rid of him. Obviously she still didn’t know him. Whenever someone tried to get rid of him it only made him more resolved to stick around. She would have one hell of a time getting rid of him. After all he was a dastardly

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

96

pirate and he knew how to irritate people to the point of no return. A mischievous smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he reluctantly closed his eyes. The large breakfast and his inspired lovemaking had made him very sleepy. He would find out why she was perturbed with him and when he did he would make her see the error of her ways. His ears perked up when he heard a monumental cacophony going on up on deck. He kept his eyes firmly shut. He knew who it was that was up to no good. But he was too damn tired to deal with Charles right now. And besides he’d best have Elizabeth at his side when he went to deal with the little scamp for she would keep him from throttling the life out of the little brat. As he drifted off he had the enchanting vision of Elizabeth naked and running around in a field of lavender. And he fell asleep with a contented smile plastered across his face.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

97

Chapter Twenty-Three Elizabeth grunted as she stared up at Rafe. His arm was still firmly wrapped around her and her cheek was pressed up against his chest. She scrunched up her face and tried slipping out of his hold. After a good deal of effort on her part she finally managed to wrestle out of his viselike hold. Grimacing she searched the cabin for something to wear. She found her periwinkle blue dress quickly enough and donned the matching spencer. Slipping her feet into kid slippers she slipped out the cabin door. Closing it quietly behind her she nearly fell against a bulkhead when a young pirate went rushing past her. “He’s up to no good again Riley,” The weirdly dressed pirate muttered. “Saints preserve us,” Seamus muttered as she came up on deck. “Good heavens,” she cried. She craned her neck to stare up to where Seamus was pointing. Charles was perched on one of the lookouts and sailors were scampering to reach him. “Doesn’t he realize that he could fall and crack open his head?” “Here’s to hoping,” Seamus muttered beneath his breath. Charles looked down and caught sight of her. He waved madly and grinned from ear to ear. “Why doesn’t he just come down before he gives me heart palpitations?" “Will you be requiring smelling salts Miss?” “Seamus after this I think I shall require a large drag of rum.” “It’s not unusual for a lad of his age to be sailing on a ship this size you know.” “I know Seamus.” She sighed and stared at him. Placing her hands on her hips she stepped forward to where Charles was standing and called out “Charles you get yourself down here at once. Why whatever would your father say if he saw you now?” “He would say the little blighter could stay up there until the first dogwatch for all that I care.” She whirled around at the sound of Rafe’s voice and rounded on him furiously. “You are not helping me in any way. As his father you are supposed to set a shining example for him.” “Is that what your father did for you then?” he chuckled and rested his hands gently on her shoulders. “I have no need to worry my dear. Look at the boy. He managed to scoot up there like a little monkey and I’ll suspect that if he is able to get up he will be able to climb down as well.” She sputtered as a spew of seawater splashed up at them. “A fine day for sailing,” Rafe murmured sucking in the fresh salty air. “Aye we should have a good course today Captain,” Ethan muttered. “You look a bit haggard Ethan. Are you feeling queasy?” “Not at all. I am however quite bug eyed. That little squirt kept me running all night. He has beans in him that one does. And when you are sharing your berth with him one discovers soon enough that sleep is definitely out of the question.” “I shall place him in Elizabeth’s cabin tonight,” Rafe decided glancing toward the companionway. “You shall not,” she hissed. “I shall require my own berth tonight.” “Ah but you shall not.” His voice held a hint of impatience and his eyes were glinting with what seemed to be pent up anger or frustration. Seeking to change the subject at hand she walked over to the bulwarks and leaned over to catch some more of the sea breeze. To her

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

98

unending disappointment she noticed that he had followed her. “Why did you leave?” “I couldn’t sleep.” She kept her answers brief and wished with all of her might that some unforeseen calamity would occur that would require his attention. “If you could not sleep you should have just awakened me for I could have entertained you with a grand show.” “Oh go on. You are too much Rafe,” she muttered rolling her eyes. Rounding on him she looked up at him. “You should be spending time with your child.” “I don’t even know if that little heathen is mine. I wouldn’t say I was the only man that Chastity fooled around with. To be sure that poor boy could have numerous prospective fathers to choose from.” “Aye I understand that. But look at him! He obviously needs a guiding hand.” “Did you require a guiding hand once your mother died?” “Of course I did not. I fared quite well with my nannies and governesses thank you.” “Your mother was a St. Martin was she not?” “How did you know that?” Her voice fell to the barest of whispers and she leaned forward. Almost no one realized that her mother had hailed from English nobility. “I do my research,” he said carelessly shrugging his shoulders. “I found out all that I needed to. Plus I do happen to know that the St. Martin’s are one of the greatest noble families that have ever graced England’s shores.” “I take it that you had a fancy for one of the St. Martin sisters?” She was unprepared for the snorting and coughing jag that followed her question. He kept coughing until she whacked him a few times across the back. “You could say that,” he said hoarsely wiping tears out of the corner of his eyes. “Though I daresay I’ve never had any carnal desires for them.” “Ah I see far out of your class then.” He coughed again and had to lean over the rail to catch his breath. “Yes they are far too good for the likes of me,” he said honestly staring up at her with shining blue eyes. She smiled at him and found that her heart was melting. He was carrying her away again and if she wasn’t careful he would have her tucked back into his bed so quickly it would make her head spin. “If you do not think that Charles is your son what will you do with him?” “Well if he wishes it he can have a permanent placement aboard my ship. But if he doesn’t he may go his own way.” “Why do you think that Charles is not your son?” She had to ask the question for she could not help herself. She still sympathized with Charles because she did not want to see him turned out into the cold. “I do not think the child is mine because I have not been intimate with Chastity for eight years.” “Then we must find out how old Charles is. He certainly doesn’t look any older than eight even though he sometimes behaves like a rascal of twelve or thirteen.” “Chastity’s life probably forced him to grow up before his time,” Rafe mused showing her his healthy set of teeth. For being a pirate and a man without any money to his name all of his life he certainly did have good teeth and his skin was not sallow in the least bit. “I am accustomed to seeing lads his age as callow-eyed youths that don’t know the bow of the boat from the stern. But that young one he probably knows as much as an old salt.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

99

“It is a sad thing indeed.” Elizabeth sighed. She hated to see people that were robbed of their childhoods. She turned back to stare out to sea when a loud whistle filled her ears. Fighting the impulse to cover them she whirled around just in time to see Rafe wrench the pipe out of Charles’s hand. “Where did you get a hold of this you little scamp?” “I found it.” Charles grinned and made Elizabeth furrow her brow. “Have you eaten yet Charles?” “I gave him some ship’s biscuit,” Seamus butted in scowling down at Charles. At Elizabeth’s horrified gasp Seamus sighed and grunted. “It was the Captain’s orders. We all know what happens when you don’t follow the Captain’s orders.” “Aye we do but I for one am someone that shall pay them no mind. Charles, are you still hungry?” she asked extending her hand so that he could place his chubby paw into it. “Aye I am,” He said sweetly smiling up at her. Her heart melted again. “Then you shall have a full breakfast. Seamus, make the lad what you made the Captain and I this morning.” “Captain?” Seamus asked seemingly exasperated to his wits end. Rafe seemed as if he were about to blow a gasket but he kept his calm composure just barely. Flaring out his nostrils he crossed his arms and nodded his head. “Ethan will you take Charles down to the galley?” “I know me own way,” Charles said brightly. “No doubt that you do but nonetheless I shall require that you have an escort.” “Fine but tell him to not get in my way.” Charles went running ahead of Ethan while Ethan tried to keep up the pace. “What the hell was that about?” Rafe asked sending icy daggers her way. “I wanted the lad to a have a decent meal in his stomach.” “He had a filling meal in his gut!” Rafe raged walking down to the stern. “Has it ever entered your pea sized brain that maybe just maybe that little scalawag has been placed on this ship as a spy?” She snorted and then rolled her eyes. “Whoever would come up with such a ludicrous notion?” “Me.” Rafe served her with a disgusted glare. “We still aren’t in the all clear you know little miss. We could meet back up with Antonio at any point in time before we reach safe harbor.” “Speaking of safe harbor you shall have to run your true colors once we reach English waters.” “Those Miss are my true colors.” “You know what I mean you had better run the …” “Aye I know do not worry I shall run the colors of my homeland. Now my little miss I know that you tried to dance around the issue at hand. But you will not dissuade me. The little scamp shall remain under watch.” “Why? Just so that you can throw away your own child under the pretence that he’s a spy?” “I would never discard my own child so carelessly. But I have my own reasons to suspect that Chastity has not borne my son.” “And what are those reasons?” “If she had truly fallen pregnant with my babe I feel sure she would have wanted to

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

100

publicly announce it.” “For what means? It isn’t as if you have any money and you aren’t a public figurehead of any kind.” The deck had become eerily still. “You are just a troublesome pirate and that has nothing but your reputation.” “I am known as someone much different in England.” Ethan interrupted his words before he could go any further. But her interest was piqued. So what kind of a man was he in England? He’d probably been no more than a wanted criminal. Perhaps he’d been a highwayman. Elizabeth sighed heavily and turned away from them. “The boy he’s fallen ill,” Ethan whispered. Elizabeth turned around and swallowed thickly. “What do you mean sick?” “He’s retching all over the place.” “Get him to my cabin. Now!” she ordered. Lifting her skirt she ran toward the companionway nearly skidding on a wet patch of flooring. “Bring me some cool cloths and some boiled water right away!” She called out once she had reached the cabin. “What is it do you think?” Rafe stood by the foot of the bed and the frantic look on his face belied the fact that he was actually concerned for Charles. Despite all his blustering he had the heart of a saint. Then she gasped as she suddenly remembered a story that her governess had told her. During the war there was a Royal Navy ship that had been told to go into quarantine because they had come in contact with an outbreak of the Black Death. The Captain’s foolishness concerning said quarantine nearly endangered the entire fleet. “Would Chastity oblige by quarantine rules?” Her stomach plummeted as she considered the type of illness that the boy might be battling. “Damn it all.” Rafe’s eyes were filled with understanding and he looked about ready to break something. On the upside she would not have to explain to him what her fears were. “I doubt it.” Rafe’s eyes glinted with fire. “I don’t know what Charles has but he’s raging with fever. Rafe it could be …” “I know what it could be. But we shall not even consider it. Shall you be able to help him pull through?” “I don’t know.” If he had some serious malady she would not be able to do anything for him. “I don’t suppose you have a ship’s surgeon?” “On a ship of ill repute such as this? Why Miss Elizabeth I think that you have gone clear out your wits. The only way I would be able to have a willing surgeon on this ship would be if that man had fallen on hard times. I am afraid that I do not run a ship fully outfitted as the Royal Navy or American Navy must do.” Skimming her hands over the boy’s body she stopped when he moaned. Lifting the light cotton that he wore she peeked underneath. “Good lord look Rafe!” “That would be an infected gash.” He hovered so close to her that she could feel the strength and warmth emanating from him. “Aye now I know what has caused the fever. If I do not draw out the poison he may die. Help me to take his shirt off.” Rafe added his help by lifting Charles while she slipped the shirt over his head. “This is very interesting,” Rafe said motioning toward a weirdly shaped birthmark on Charles’s left shoulder. “It’s nothing but a birthmark,” she said not investing any more time into it. She did not have the time to waste on inspecting such trivial matters. Long ago when a child had been born

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

101

with a birthmark it had been seen as a mark of the devil but now no such ideas of idiocy were to be had. At least not in any of the circles that she frequented. “Aye but a birthmark could tell you a great deal about a person don’t you think?” She met his gaze and recognized the thoughtful glint in his eyes. “I suppose,” she said she was so distracted that she barely even noticed him move away from the bed and stand to gaze out the window. “Rafe I told you that I needed some help.” Her voice was tinged with impatience and she felt like walking over to him and swatting him soundly. She regarded him impatiently and was surprised even more when he turned around with a boyish grin plastered across his features. His eyes were lit with nothing more but relief. He seemed ten years younger already and there was a spring to his step that she found disconcerting. “Have you finally decided to absolve yourself and tell me your true identity and past?” “Give me some more time.” He swallowed and then smiled again. “Yet I do have a discovery to tell you about and it has nothing at all to do with my past. Let us get this boy into tiptop shape before we talk any further.” “Yes but I can hardly take the suspense. You must tell me now.” Her hands tended to Charles’s wound in an effortless easy manner and she could see that Rafe followed her every move. “I know Charles’s sire.” She stopped midway and licked her lips. “I do not follow. I thought you were his father.” “Did I not tell you time and again I highly doubted that confession of Chastity’s?” “Aye you did.” She had finally managed to draw out the whole poison and she was wrapping the bandage around it as he spoke. “I am not his father but you know his true father well and good.” “Well tell me who it is,” she prompted. Charles awoke for a brief moment and stared wildly around him. “Charles Phillip, do not handle that rope that way,” he cried out in a relatively good imitation of Chastity’s voice. All of the life drained out of Elizabeth and she had to lean on the mattress for support. Her mind reeled and she now felt as if she were about to retch. This could not be! “Oh my God. Don’t tell me. I already know.” “How would you know? I know only because of the birthmark.” He had scrunched his face up into a confused expression and she nearly blurted out the whole truth about her secret identity as a man. She only assumed the identity of Evan when she wanted to gain access to White’s or one of the more popular gaming hells. “Let’s just say that it’s woman’s intuition.” She plopped down on the side of the bed and groaned. “This does not bode well.” “Aye when that sad imitation for a Spanish Don discovers that we have his brat he will be ready to tan our hides.” He ran his hand through his blond waves and when he was finished they were more wayward than they had been before. He looked like a little boy. A little boy who anticipated a monster beneath his bed. “Do you think that Phillip knows?” She did not want to jump to conclusions. But if Phillip knew … well they would be in for a world of trouble that they certainly did not need. “You mean Antonio,” Rafe said shaking his head. “I would suspect though I daresay that if he does not he soon will. Chastity has probably already told him the whole sordid incident. She was always a woman that had a forked and well greased tongue.” “Why would she say Charles was yours when he wasn’t?” She couldn’t wrap her mind

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

102

around the idea of knowing such a ridiculously manipulative woman. “Because my dear as I’ve already tried telling you I have something that both Chastity and Antonio have always secretly coveted.” “And what would that be? A lost Aztec treasure perhaps?” “No you silly goose. I have a title.” Her mouth dropped open and she nearly fell off of the mattress.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

103

Chapter Twenty-Four Now he had gone and done it! His goose was cooked and there was no getting over it. But to his chagrin and surprise Elizabeth started to laugh. It started off as a small hesitant sound and then turned into something that echoed off of the walls. “I know that you hold a title you stupid man. No doubt in England you are known and revered as The Masked Marauder.” She was doubled over now and Mallory frowned. He wasn’t entirely sure that he liked her flippancy concerning such a serious matter. “It is true. I am a titled English nobleman.” She stopped laughing long enough to let out a few hiccups. “Oh Rafe you are too much!” “I told you woman,” he said storming over to kneel in front of her. “I am not in jest.” “What are you The Baron of Thievery?” her face was turning red and he feared that she was about to suffocate herself from lack of air. Gripping her shoulders he shook her just enough to catch her attention. Her laughter died away and she took her finger and traced it along his jaw line. He shivered and felt himself melting at her touch. She was like bloody opium for God’s sake. He did not know if he would ever get over his insatiable hunger for her. Her sherry brown eyes were filled with tears and she was smiling so widely it nearly encompassed her entire face. “I am not the Baron of anything.” His voice came out more a growl than a grumble and she arched her eyebrows in surprise. “Were you knighted for services to the crown? Ah now I see you were given a knighthood for your heroism at Waterloo. I am sorry. I should have guessed sooner.” He was holding his head now and staring up at her in incredulous amazement. “So what do I call you now?” “Mallory,” he murmured hoping that she would recognize his name. He was well thought of throughout the haut ton and he suspected that she might have a glimmer of an idea as to who he was. He was sick and tired of her calling him Rafe. When he made love to her she always called out the name Rafe and it made him want to throw up. “Sir Mallory. Oh now that is a good one.” That sound of laughter was present in her voice again and it grated against his nerves. “My name has two l’s in it,” he muttered closing his eyes against the smirk that played at her lips. “I do not mean to make light of your title. It must have been a grand day for you when you were awarded such an honor. Now I understand why you were at the masquerade ball where we first met. I had just believed that you had sneaked in intent on finding a willing lady to warm your bed.” “I was there under invitation.” “Oh of course you were.” He looked up just in time to see her roll her eyes heavenward. He was getting very tired of her patronizing attitude. Just because he had kidnapped her intent on ruining her and using her money didn’t mean that he came from a pauper background. If she knew the sort of grand legacy that he hailed from her mouth would hit the floor. “Pray from now on call me Mallory.” He would ask that much of her. After all once they exchanged their vows he could hardly have her calling him Rafe. “But the name Rafe seems to suit you so much better.” She had sobered up enough now

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

104

to stare at him without smirking. “It is not my Christian name.” He stood up and put a fairly large distance between them. “Then you weren’t named for the Archangel Rapheal.” “No I was not! I was named for my mother’s family.” He clamped his mouth shut afraid that he had already revealed too much. “I would like to meet your mother. I shall be very interested to see what sort of a woman could possibly raise you.” He observed her for a moment and then decided that she was purposefully trying to irritate him. He tried to keep his voice as civil as was possible beneath the stressful situation. “You shall adore my mother I am sure of it. She is a woman of beauty and wit. A woman in a class of her own.” “I have no doubt. For you certainly do not lack physical attractiveness.” “You do realize that Antonio will be coming back to intercept us before we reach England do you not?” “I doubt that he will be able to find you. We are at sea and as soon as he took Chastity he took a different course.” “Sometimes I fear that the man is not entirely human for he seems to know things that others do not.” “Complete and utter balderdash. We shall reach England in a matter of days and you will find that we will have clear sailing.” “Aye perhaps you are right. But I my dear have learned to never bank on supposition. I prefer to let the fates take me where they will.” He watched as she tilted her head to the side. “Yet you took fate into your own hands when you kidnapped me.” Her voice was soft and there was something resembling betrayal glimmering in her eyes. She walked slowly toward him and placed her hands firmly on his chest. “Why do you insist on giving me heartache?” Her voice rocked him to his very core. “I do no such thing.” “Oh but you do. I may have been pampered with riches when I was little but I do know there is more to life than money and jewels.” “There is love.” He was waiting for her to confess her own love to him but for some reason she was remaining disturbingly quiet. He lowered his lips toward hers and brushed against them ever so slightly. She tensed but wrapped her arms around him. Pulling her close he lifted her off of her feet. He twirled her around and lowered one hand to cup her bottom. “We must leave,” she gasped out. Their hunger for each other would never be abated. Somehow they made it to the next cabin and where words had failed them they took over in the joining of their bodies. He stared at her at the height of their passion and wondered if she would ever be his. “Why did you not marry?” he brushed a lock of her hair off of her face and decided that he loved the way that she looked after a bout of hearty lovemaking. Her forehead shone with sweat and her eyes filled with wonder. “Why would I marry when I could never find any man that would take me as I am?” She sighed heavily and looked away from him. “They all wanted me for my money. I know that I have never been a great beauty but no man has ever looked at me as if I were the only woman in the room. No man except for you.” Her voice trailed off and there was a catch to it that made him give her his full attention. “At the masquerade ball you stared at me as if I was the only woman that mattered. I

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

105

could not believe that I had been given such a blessing. That was why I agreed to go out with you to the maze.” He pulled her closer to him. She was right. At that point in time he had not needed her money. Her father had not lured his father into playing a game that he could not win. His father had never been particularly good at playing cards but he had been absolutely abysmal when compared to Geoffrey’s superior skill. “I did not want you for your money then.” His voice was silent almost deadly so. She propped herself up on her elbows and stared quizzically down at him. “If you knew who I was that night why didn’t you come back to claim me?” How could he answer her question? He did not know how to tell her that her father had cheated his father and that he had suddenly been burdened with far too much responsibility. He was a man that needed the carefree easy life. That was why he loved the sea so much. The sea gave him everything that he needed and more. He could see by the intense expression on her face that she was thinking once again. “You mentioned earlier that you knew Mary. How do you know her? Was she another one of your conquests?” He chuckled at that ludicrous thought and sighed. “No she was not one of my conquests. She knew my brother.” His voice had become flat at her new line of questioning and he could see that she had noticed the change. “In what capacity did she know your brother?” “She was his partner in crime.” He stared over at her to see if she was going to flinch at all. “You do not know much about Mary do you?” “Only that she is a formidable woman and one that does not need to be protected.” “Aye that is what my brother soon found out. They had plans to wed you see and I do believe that my brother would have done anything for her. I suspect that he would have even died for her if necessary. But she had problems of her own on land and he had responsibilities at sea.” “What sort of problems did she have?” “She was fighting for her land and for her title. Fortunately she eventually regained everything but when it came for the time of their nuptials my brother was killed. I did not believe that Mary would ever recover but it seems that time evidently heals all wounds.” “I am sorry. Ronald is a good man.” “Aye but Andrew was a far better man.” His voice was heavy and he blinked back tears. He wanted to get off the subject of talking about his brother. He and his brother had been very close and witnessing his death had nearly broken him. Two loud raps sounded at the door and Mallory stood up to answer it. “Mallory?” Elizabeth whispered. Turning around he was surprised to see the wistful expression that had taken hold of her features. “I shall never be close to another man the way that I am close to you.” He nodded his head momentarily unable to say anything. No matter how hard he tried she was still unwilling to tell him that she loved him. Squaring his shoulders and buttoning the last button on his jacket he moved to swing the door open. “They have come.” Ethan’s voice was emotionless though his hand rested comfortably on his sword. “And this time the bastard brought more ships. They outnumber us two to one.” Mallory bit his lip and turned back to stare at Elizabeth. “The men are making ready but I do believe that we will be facing a close fight.” Ethan seemed troubled but Mallory was not worried in the slightest. Perhaps this would be the day that

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

106

Antonio would finally receive his reckoning. “Make sure that everyone is armed right up to Old Pete.” Mallory’s mind had turned from worrying about Elizabeth’s inability to confess her love to worrying about the welfare of everyone onboard his ship. There would be deaths this day and he had to make sure that he kept her safe from the carnage. A sea battle was something that could terrify the wits out of grown men. Elizabeth had fared spectacularly well on the last one right up until the time when she had been overwhelmed and captured. “Aye Captain.” Ethan motioned for him to step outside and Mallory obliged. “What if he has come for her?” “He shall never get her.” Mallory’s voice was hard and Ethan’s brows were raised. “Be careful Rafe.” “Why should I be careful? I love that woman in there.” “Aye and I loved her mother. Look at where it got me. Just pray take care for you never know what she might do. If you recall you did kidnap her what if she is playing right into your hands?” “Out of the question. I shall not even consider it.” “Just watch your back savvy?” “Yes I understand. I shall take great caution when dealing with her.” Mallory did not want to be on guard with Elizabeth but he would stay on his toes until he knew whether or not she was his forever. “Have you told her who you really are yet?” “No but I will in due course.” He shuffled impatiently and glanced back wearily at the door. He had to keep his answers short and to the point. Elizabeth had a habit of listening at the door. She was a well-accomplished eavesdropper. Ethan simply did not understand the difficult situation that he was in. He was between a rock and a hard place and he did not know what to do. “Women really hate men that lie to them. It’s way up there on their list of most despicable men.” Ethan’s eyes searched his features and Mallory sighed. He was annoying him to no end but he knew that he only had his best interests at heart. Ethan had been a dutiful trustworthy friend and he had to have him know their friendship was not being strained in the slightest. “Thank you my friend. I shall keep everything that you have said in mind. You are too paranoid for your own good sometimes man.” He slapped Ethan on the back and then turned at the sound of extra activity onboard the ship. “But I do believe that you still have to make sure that this ship is battle ready. Have you sent out the necessary signals to the other ships?” “Aye it’s been done. They are scrambling for action. What about The Lady’s Warrior? Shall we be protecting them as well?” “Most certainly. The Countess is a personal friend of mine. I don’t think my mother would be overly happy if I allowed anything to happen to her goddaughter. Splendid. Now allow me to get back to my woman. I must convince her to stay down below while the fighting is going on.” “Do you think that’s very wise? Miss Elizabeth has never been overly accommodating in following your wishes before. She comes from stubborn stock that one does. I would wager that most of her unbending ways come from her mother’s side of the family.” Ethan stopped mid-step and threw him a doubting frown. “Duly noted old man.” He stared at Ethan and puckered his lips into a frown. The man was treading a fine line with his intimated remark but Mallory would let it pass for their good

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

107

friendship allowed for a certain amount of leeway. Besides Mallory and Elizabeth were distant cousins at best. “If I keep her in her cabin I shall have the peace of mind of knowing that she is safe. During a heated battle I do not want to worry about having a woman underfoot.” “Have it your way then. Who am I to argue with a Duke and a Pirate? I should have my head examined for doing such an absurd thing.” He bounded up the companionway and left Mallory with his own unsettled thoughts. Elizabeth would never leave him. She was his forever and always. But what would he do if she did manage to escape him? He would go mad that is what he would do. Opening the cabin door he walked in as if the weight of the world rested on his shoulders.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

108

Chapter Twenty-Five Elizabeth was slowly going stir crazy. She paced the length of the cabin for about the thousandth time and stopped when she heard the door swooshing open. Whirling about she served Mallory with a cunning stare. “I would like a sword or a cutlass or whatever the hell that thing is that you carry.” “Good morrow to you to,” he mumbled reaching inside of his pocket for a letter. He handed it to her and then strode over to his writing desk. “I have no need of such a letter,” she muttered staring down at it quizzically. “Keep it you may find the information that it contains to come in handy some day. Especially if I do not make it out of this fight alive.” Silence blanketed the room before Elizabeth rushed over to him and pulled him around to face him. Had the man taken leave of his senses? Whatever possessed him to say such horrendous things? “Stop this at once!” She shouted stamping her foot. “I will not hear of your death. You handle yourself quite well in a fight.” “There are uncertainties when it comes to the type of fight that we are facing.” “Uncertainties?” She laughed but it sounded hollow and bitter to her ears. “Of course there are uncertainties. Some poor slobs are going to lose their lives this day. Hell we could be those poor slobs!” “I don’t want you to be one of those poor slobs. That is why you must promise me you will stay down here where it is safe. I shall post two guards outside of your door.” “And what if the guards are overpowered?” she snorted. “Blister it you listen to me Mallory Morgan,” she said striding up to him and poking him on the chest. “I shall not allow myself to put my trust in others.” “I will make sure that you do not have to worry about being ruthlessly killed. The fighting shall remain above deck.” “You stupid pillock!” she spat out. “Here I stand telling you I wish to fight and yet you are being implacable with me.” “I only have concern for your safety.” He made to put his arms around her but she pulled away from him and served him with a foul stare. “You shall not placate me that easily. I have always been a woman of my own making. Why do you think that I distance myself from my father so much?” “Just this once can you not give me the ability to have my heart at rest?” She bunched her hands into fists and stared up at him through lowered lashes. She would not let him leave her behind. If he were out of her sights she would not be able to warn him of any impending danger. Thinking on her feet she approached him by plastering the best pout on her face that she could muster. “You say that you love and adore me and yet you will not allow me to fight by your side as your equal. Tell me Mallory am I your equal?” “Aye I would say that you are. Though I would warrant I could lift a few more stones that you can.” “That goes without saying. But in this relationship do you view me as your equal?” Everything hinged on the answer to this one pivotal question. “Certainly.” His voice sounded sincere and his face relayed no other sentiment to her.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

109

“That is good then. I shall have you know that I have been trained in the ways of combat.” “Not in this type of combat. There are no rules of honor here. The Royal Navy has rules of engagement and rules of war but here on the open seas with no law around us we pirates fight of our own code. And the code is every man for himself. There will be dirty fighting of that much you can be sure. Most of these pirates that we shall go up against are the lowest of the lows. They only know the power of destruction. They will do anything to take over these ships and the cargo and people that they hold. Why do you think women do not travel with me on a regular occasion? Our life is a hard and sometimes a terrible one. I have seen things that would make your hair stand on end. I am not willing to have you at the mercy of Antonio again. Because this time there will be no escape for you. If we do not win this battle all hope will be lost.” “Then I would rather die fighting.” She stared up at him and ran her hands over his chest. “Just because I am not built like you does not mean I do not have fire in my heart and in my eyes. I swear to you that I shall give each and every pirate that boards this ship one hell of a run for their money.” “I do believe that you would. But it is out of the question. You stay here. That is that. No room for any other form of discussion. You shall stay in here with Charles and with Seamus.” “Charles?” her mind reeled as she tried to comprehend what he’d just said. “But that is the most foolish thing that I have ever heard you say. You cannot be actually considering keeping Charles? You said yourself that he was not your boy. If Phillip … I mean Antonio knows that he is onboard this ship he will be in a towering rage until he gets him back.” “Men like Antonio do not care about their children. Especially when those children are illegitimate ones.” “Ah but I disagree. I know for a reason that Antonio will want Charles back.” “If we give him Charles the boy will grow up to be a tyrant like his father and like his father he will haunt me until the end of my days.” “Pray do let Charles go back to his father and mother.” “How is the boy feeling now? Has the fever lessened?” “Aye it was almost gone when we left and um … came here.” She coughed and averted her gaze from his smoldering one. “Lying with you is truly one of the most glorious pleasures I have ever experienced. When I am with you I swear that I have died and gone to heaven.” “Yes well if you keep Charles away from Antonio the man might just oblige you.” “Would you in good conscience be able to allow that boy to go back to a certified monster like that? Be serious Elizabeth I know you would not.” “If he were my son I would protect him with my last breath.” “That is just what I want to hear for I do believe you shall make a fine mother. Namely a fine mother of my children.” Her breath lodged in her throat and she had to gasp for breath. This could not be how it was going to end. If they made it out of this battle alive she would leave Rafe or Mallory or whoever the hell he was as soon as they reached England. She’d had quite enough of double identities and pasts unknown. She wanted to go back to living her own life. If necessary she would give Mallory the money that he required but after she’d wash her hands of him. “If I can’t dissuade you,” she said as the sound of drums filled her ears. It was odd hearing drums being played on a pirate ship but she supposed it was in homage to his days as a

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

110

Navy man. “Then I shall like to take a little something of you to remember. As you said the fighting shall be close and if you were to meet your maker I would want you to die a happy man.” He had underestimated her. She was a clever woman and she was going to curl him around her pinky finger. “Of course I would be more than happy to oblige your request.” He swept her off of her feet and she let out a delighted sigh despite herself. She roamed her hands over the ripple of his taunt muscles. She did love him. But she wouldn’t tell him so for everyone she had ever loved had been taken from her in the cruelest of ways. Their kiss was hot long and tortured. And had they the time she knew that it would have escalated into something that would have left her exhausted. “Do you have a knife that I may use?” “For what?” he asked even though he was producing one from his belt. “To take a lock of your hair as a keepsake. I have not one keepsake from you and you are my love.” “Might I remind you,” he started as she snipped off a lock of hair. “I don’t have one keepsake of yours either.” Looking around the cabin her eyes rested on her jewelry case. She ran over to it and lifted the lid. Lying inside was a sparkling ruby and diamond ring that her mother had given her when she’d been very young. It had proved lucky on numerous occasions and she felt as if he would require all of the possible luck on his side. The cabin shook as the cannons roared. And so it had begun. She slipped it into his opened palm. He puckered his lips into a thoughtful frown. “I do not want to disappoint you my dearest but this will not fit me.” “I know that you silly man.” She laughed and then sobered when the sound of more cannon fire filled her ears. “It is a good luck charm.” He stared at her for a few silent moments and then slipped it in his pocket. “In that case I shall forever cherish it just as I shall always cherish you.” Her heart stopped. It was just too full of love for him. What would she do if he were blown to bits? Melancholy almost took a hold of her. Stepping forward she pulled him toward her. “You just make sure that you come back to me.” “I shall.” He smiled down at her and then touched her cheek reverently. “We shall have a grand life.” He brushed his lips against hers and then he turned to leave. “Aye,” she whispered. “One of us will.” He walked out the door and she burst into action before he sent Charles and Seamus to her cabin. She had a scant few moments but it would be all that she would need.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

111

Chapter Twenty-Six Mallory emerged onto the quarterdeck and stared across at the approaching ship. “Fire cannons on my command,” he cried as his crewman stared at him for guidance. “Captain we will get the bastard this time,” Ethan shouted. Nodding their agreement the other man roared out a cheer. He had nothing to worry about. His men would do well by him. He noticed Ethan draw in a chattering breath. “Are you cold Ethan?” he asked reaching to take off his greatcoat. “Do not fret so Rafe it is nothing. I shall be fine. I always find I am chilly right before a battle.” “Take my coat you foolish man. I’m not feeling the chill that’s prevalent in the air.” Ethan stared at him for a few moments and then reached to take the greatcoat he extended toward him. “I thank you my friend. I do need to buy myself a new coat once we reach Portsmouth.” “Aye that you do. I’ll even be able to give you the money once I wed Elizabeth.” “That will be a blessed day. However I pray that you will never come to rue the day that the two of you first met.” “That day was the best day of my life.” He could see the ship was almost in range. Soon they would have good clean shots. He just needed to wait. “Fire!” he shouted. The cannons roared to life and they had the satisfaction of having several direct hits. Around them his other ships were also involved in the fray of battle. The Warrior’s Lady was keeping a safe distance obviously realizing they could neither make a run for it nor fight. So they were trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. But eventually Antonio would get around to shooting them out of the water as well. Antonio had been plotting this particular day for many years. He had met him during the war when the Spaniard had been allied with the French. Antonio had not taken too well to being put into an English prison and Mallory knew that Antonio’s grudge against him would never die until that is one of them did. He said a silent prayer to God and then brushed his fingers against the Celtic cross that he wore. If he needed any divine intervention it would be on this day. Acrid smoke filled the air as gunshots fired off. Mallory was nearly thrown off of his feet when The Destroyer rammed The Valiant. “Good God!” He muttered trying to regain his bearings. The cannons would only be able to fire one more time and then the hand-to-hand combat would begin. He heard Ethan’s shouted warning a moment too late. Brandishing his pistol in one hand and his cutlass in the other he turned just in time to see Antonio leveling his pistol at him. “Shit,” he muttered. He tried to move out of the way but Antonio had already pulled the trigger. His eyes watered as a burning sensation struck his left cheek. Blinking against the blurriness that was quickly consuming his vision he swore again and wiped his hand over his cheek. Blood oozed over his gloves. Obviously he had been nicked quite well and good by Antonio’s damn pistol. Captain Blood would pay for this transgression against him. Lunging into battle he lifted his cutlass to block a strike served by one of Antonio’s men.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

112

He quickly shoved his pistol back into his belt and turned his concentration on making short work of the pirate that stood before him. Jeers of the mingled men filled the air. This was going to be one hell of a fight. He had not recalled anything quite so brutal since his days in the war. Now more than ever he was happy that Elizabeth was safely stored away down below. **** “What are you doing?” Charles asked. He bobbed up and down on the bed looking every inch his own age. “I’m preparing myself for battle,” she muttered continuing to rummage inside of her trunk. She knew that she had it hidden somewhere but she couldn’t remember how to trigger the secret compartment it was hidden in. It had been her ace in the hole and something she’d been concealing from Mallory for this whole voyage. “You are a very reckless and foolish woman,” he decided out loud. She nearly hit her head on the lid of her trunk at the sound of her cabin door opening. Craning her neck around she sighed with relief when she saw that it was only Seamus. “Oh my dear Miss Elizabeth. Why are you wearing that awful get-up again?” “Because the skirt of my dress shall only hamper me when I’m fighting.” “I don’t think I heard that.” Seamus muttered walking heavily over toward her. “The Captain told me that you were supposed to stay out of the fighting this time.” “Well,” she said her voice muffled “The Captain was mistaken.” “Mistaken my arse! Miss Elizabeth you are as stubborn as a mule.” He stood looming over her successfully blocking out the light. “Would you be so kind as to move a few steps to the right?” she asked. She had to find it. She already wore her custom-made trousers and white linen shirt. She’d tied a scarf around her plaited hair to shield her head from the sun. Now all she needed was the last item she searched for. She didn’t care if women weren’t supposed to wear breeches fighting in a dress would be too damn hard. Where were they? They had to be in here somewhere! “I think that we should go up there and fight,” Charles pronounced bounding off of the bed and racing over to them. “Me ma needs to be taught a lesson.” Shaking her head in disbelief she stared up at Charles. He really was a cute little boy. Why with the dirt washed off of his face and clean clothes he seemed almost normal. He was still quite pale but his eyes were filled with an effervescent light and the fever had passed. He was actually quite a wonder. She had never seen anyone recover so quickly in all of her life. “Did she truly treat you that badly?” she continued to dig deeper into her chest not quite believing how much clothing she owned. Perhaps she was a little too pampered. “She beat me,” Charles admitted. Elizabeth let out a shocked gasp of horror and Seamus said something that definitely could not be repeated in polite company. “Did she tell you that Captain Morgan was your father?” She held her breath waiting for his answer. “She told me to pretend that he was. But I know who my real father is. And I don’t like him too much either. He’s even crueler than me own ma.” Mallory had been right. The child could not be relinquished to his parents. They were both rotten to the very core. “You won’t make me go back to them will you?” Leaning back on her haunches she adamantly shook her head. “That is most certainly out of the question now. “You may rest easy Charles. I will not allow you to go back to Chastity.”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

113

“Oh good. That’s what I wanted to hear. By the by if you’re looking for the two hand pistols you had stored in there I put them in your desk.” She gawked and shook her head in disbelief. “Don’t you know that it isn’t polite to go searching through a lady’s belongings?” “Don’t get yourself wound in a knot. I didn’t find anything I wanted to use anyhow. But I thought the pistols might be useful to me so I moved them.” “Why you little scamp,” she muttered standing up and brushing her trousers off. “You can’t seriously be considering going up there,” Seamus muttered pulling out a hard biscuit. She stared at him incredulously. “Of course I’m going up there. And however can you think of eating at a time like this?” “I get hungry when I am nervous,” Seamus mumbled chomping into it. “But I won’t let you pass this time.” He moved to block her way. “I made a promise to the Captain and seeing as you are the woman he loves I intend to keep that promise.” “If you don’t move old man I’ll break your leg.” She smiled demurely at him and he cocked his head to the side. “Well I would rather not stay here. A boy could drown down here if the ship took a direct hit.” Folding her arms across her chest she inclined her head to the side. “Out of the mouths of babes.” “I’m not a baby,” Charles said huffily coming to stand beside her. She rested her hand on her shoulder and then stared sternly down at him. “You my boy are not going anywhere. You are still too weak.” “I am made of stern stuff. I’ve seen me way through me ma’s beatings I can see my way through a battle fought by simpletons. If me ma’s crew is up there they will be easy to fight. They don’t know the difference between the deck on a ship and the hand on a ship.” She snorted and nearly laughed. “Charles you should watch your tongue. But you are a child Charles and I would rest easier knowing that you were down here. Besides if your father saw you he might get it in his head to take you.” He stiffened and a wild glint entered his eyes. “I’ll stay down here then. But if I’m not going then I don’t think that you should be going anywhere either.” “But I am. You are not the master of me Charles and neither is Seamus. If you do not take me up there I shall make good on my earlier threat.” She eyed him levelly and watched his eyes dart to the side. “I do not wish to hurt you Miss but I will.” An explosion ripped through the cabin door and sent them all hurtling backwards. She slammed against the floor and felt Charles’s hand slap out against her face when he fell. “Oy, that hurt,” he mumbled with blood trickling out of his nose. She scrambled over to Seamus just as two pirates came charging into the room. “Well so much for our guards. Charles are you strong enough to make it over to the desk for the pistols?” “I think so,” He mumbled clutching his right arm to the chest. Thankfully the pirates were distracted because they were going through her belongings. She stared up at one and bit her lip when she noticed the glinting earring in his ear and the almost toothless grin that he sported. Grimacing with pain she crawled over to Seamus. “Wake up Seamus,” she muttered slapping his face. Fearing that he was dead she felt for a pulse. It was very faint but it was definitely there. Her eyes widened with horror when she heard the one pirate’s hooted

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

114

exclamation. “Look Barney there’s a pretty piece of flesh ripe for the taking.” She could hear him swaggering over toward her. She didn’t have the time or the luxury to wait for Charles to return with the pistols. Thinking quickly she reached for Seamus’ cutlass and brought it round it front of her just in time. The pirate did not expect her to be wielding a blade for as her cutlass speared through him he made a surprised gurgling noise. His one eye was about to pop out of his head and he swayed precariously. Grunting with the extreme effort she pulled the blade out of his body and he dropped to the floor. She bolted to her feet just in time to meet the downward arc of Barney’s sword. He was strong but she was well trained. Metal clanged against metal as she parried with him. Dodging around him she slashed his back with her blade. He screamed out in pain and his body became riddled with rage. She was in for it now! Summoning all of her strength she met his charge again. She couldn’t take her eyes off of Barney yet she hoped that Charles had reached the pistols. If she found that she could not defeat this oversized oaf then he would be left to his own devices. She had never fought an honest-togoodness real adversary before and Barney was proving to be a heap load of trouble that she didn’t need. She finally took her eyes off of Barney for a split second and saw Charles pointing to the cabin door behind her. His face clouded with terror. Assuming that there was someone behind her she remembered Miss Grady’s old adage. A wise and thoughtful person never keeps their back to the door. She scooted around Barney and find that her timing could not have been better. Seconds later a pistol discharged and hit Barney right in the back. He dropped like a ton of bricks to the floor. Horrified the cutlass became lax in her grip as she met the stare of one of Antonio’s men. She recognized him from her night onboard The Destroyer. He reached for another loaded pistol and pointed it at her. “I would keep you to have some fun with you but Barney there was me best mate.” She groaned and dropped her gaze to Barney’s blood-smeared form. Clenching her eyes shut she waited expectantly for the mind-numbing pain. A shot pierced the eerie stillness that had consumed the cabin. Believing that she had not felt the blow she opened her eyes expecting to see blood trickling down her shirt. Instead she found that the man wielding the pistol had dropped to the floor. He blocked the doorway and she could finally hear the ravaged sounds of fighting drifting down to them from up above. She stared behind her and found Seamus holding the smoking pistol. “I promised the Captain that I would keep you safe. I never break my word.” “Thank you Seamus.” She ran toward him. Dropping down to her knees in front of him she gave him a look of concern. “Are you all right?” “My head feels as if it’s about to explode but other than that--aye I think I am fit as a fiddle.” “Do you think that you are fit enough to come on deck with me?” “Well I don’t know to be honest. Are there hummingbirds dancing around your head or am I just lucky enough to be seeing them?” “Oh dear that doesn’t sound good. But I am no safer down here than I would be up there.” “I can see your point,” he agreed giving her a weak smile.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

115

“Since you can’t see straight I do not see the point in you accompanying me to the battle.” “Here they are,” Charles said dropping down beside her he handed her the pistols. She took them and tucked them into her belt. “Thank you Charles. I will be off now.” “I’m coming with you,” Charles muttered jumping to his feet. “Someone needs to watch your back miss!” He still seemed a bit pale and Elizabeth did not want to risk taking him with her. “I think that Seamus will need you here. I’ll be fine on my own Charles. Seamus do you think you can shoot your pistol again if someone charges into the cabin while I’m gone?” “Aye you bet your life I can.” He flashed her a grin and then grimaced. “I could do with a whole pint of good stout.” He winked at Charles as the boy gravitated closer to him. Then he ran toward her and pulled on her sleeve. “You will be careful won’t you?” She studied him thoughtfully. Feeling something resembling tenderness rush through her she knelt so that she would be at his level. “Yes I will take great pains to not get myself killed but I have to go and make sure that Captain Morgan is safe.” “But aren’t you supposed to be the damsel in distress?” His blue eyes were filled with longing and she understood his hesitancy to let her leave. For far too long this little boy had been forced to bear the brunt of his mother’s destructive behavior. “We aren’t living in the times of knights and chivalry. In fact Captain Morgan is a dastardly pirate.” “Aye but he’s the best pirate I’ve ever met.” “The same goes for me as well,” Seamus interjected. “I’ll come back to you,” she said hugging him quickly. Standing back up she dashed out the door. She ran up the companionway stepping over fallen bodies as she went. Blood was splattered across the deck and cries of agony and shouts of anger permeated the air. She searched the fighting men for any sign of Mallory. Stricken with paralyzing terror she stopped in the middle of her tracks. “No!” she screamed. She clapped her hand over her mouth to keep herself from screaming again for she knew that she had a powerful voice. Tears streamed down her face as she pushed her way to Mallory’s fallen body. She did not know how she reached him without being harmed but she could only attribute it to the fact that Mallory’s men were successfully shielding her. She fell to her knees and heard her trousers rip. But she didn’t care. All she cared about was Mallory. He was lying facedown yet there was blood streaming out of his side. He had wrapped a scarf around his head and his cutlass was on the deck a few feet away. Bracing herself she turned him over expecting to see the worst.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

116

Chapter Twenty-Seven She inhaled sharply at the heartbreaking sight that met her eyes. “Ethan!” She gasped. “Dear God,” she pulled him up so that his head rested on her lap. “I suppose I finally got it this time.” He groaned and then he began hacking uncontrollably. “No you are going to live!” she soothed brushing his hair off of his forehead. She had to remain positive for Ethan’s sake even though she knew his chances of surviving his injury were slim at best. “Did I ever tell you that you remind me of your mother?” “As a matter of fact. No.” She had to keep his mind off his pain and if she could do that by keeping him talking ... then she could keep him content. She glanced around at the fighting men and was relieved to see that the tide of the battle was changing. Soon Mallory’s men would claim victory and they would be done with Captain Blood and Chastity for once and for all. “You do,” he rasped coughing again. Blood began to trickle out of his mouth and Elizabeth peeled back Mallory’s greatcoat only to reveal a gaping wound in his abdomen. “But I look nothing like her,” she murmured. She looked up when she heard the war cry of one of Antonio’s men. Wild-eyed she pulled out one of her pistols and aimed. She had never been a very good shot but then these were desperate times and they called for desperate measures. She pulled the trigger and the pistol discharged. With an agonized cry the man fell. “Ah that is right. Yet it is not a requirement for you to look like your mother in order for you to remind me of your mother. You have the same heart.” Blinking back the hot stinging tears that were welling in her eyes she caressed his forehead. “You shall be fine. I shall get you to sickbay and …” “Nay. It is too late for me. I know that it is now my time. I have been cheating death since your mother was unfairly taken away from me. I do believe that I shall be quite happy to see her smiling face again. My other lovers paled in comparison to her ... she was my true love and I shall be happy to see her again. I don’t fear death Elizabeth you need to know that. Please tell that to Mallory for me.” “You need to fight. Mallory needs you.” “Mallory doesn’t need me. He needs you. I think that he’s been waiting for you all of his life. Don’t let him down Miss. All he craves is your love and loyalty. You will find in due course that he is a very easy man to please. Why he’s the most patient and amiable pirate that I have ever met.” She snorted and nearly laughed at his crazy notion. “But you have to help him keep him from losing his entire world. You have the power in your hands.” Ethan grew weaker by the moment and she had to lean down to catch his last words. “Tell him ... tell him that it was quite a ride. Where I am going I do believe there will be fair winds all day long.” His voice trailed off and he looked up toward the fluffy white clouds dancing in the bright blue sky. Then he heaved a great sigh as the light of life left his eyes. Elizabeth sat in stunned silence for what seemed to be an eternity. She’d never had anyone die in her arms before. Fighting back the onslaught of tears that were waiting to come gushing out she shakily pushed herself to her feet. In desperation she scanned the deck for Mallory and found him on the starboard side fighting with Chastity. Swallowing the thick lump in her throat she groaned. He would never be able to overcome her for Mallory was a chivalrous

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

117

man. Even though he was a pirate she knew that it when it came right down to it he would balk at taking her down. She on the other hand was evenly matched and it would be woman against woman. A man collided into her swore a blue streak and then his eyes brightened when he noticed her. Fortunately for her he was one of Mallory’s men. “My apologies. Miss Elizabeth,” he said dodging the blow of his assailant. “If you will be so good as to excuse me I’ll just finish this bugger off.” She nodded her head and was rewarded with a cheeky grin. Her head felt as if it were about to split in two but the fight was not over. She would be the one to finish it with Chastity. She barreled her way through the throng of men and bumped up against a woman pirate that looked like a man except for the fact that she touted breasts. The woman elbowed her and sent her careening across the floor. She backed into another pirate and when she turned around the blood in her veins turned to ice. “Fancy meeting you again,” Phillip murmured baring his teeth like a wolf that was regarding his prey. She groaned and rolled her eyes. “Step out of my way Phillip.” Her voice held steel like confidence even though her knees felt as if they were about to buckle beneath her. “Make me.” He smiled again her stomach churned. She rolled her eyes to the heavens. Why or why couldn’t he just do what she asked him to do? Was there no civility in the world anymore? Thinking she had the element of surprise because he didn’t expect anything from her she quickly pulled out her pistol and shot him in the knee. He howled with pain and collapsed. “It was so nice seeing you again,” She said over her shoulder as she ran toward Mallory. She caught a few snippets of their conversation as she approached. “So what have you done with my little bastard?” Chastity posed the question as if she were inquiring about a misplaced piece of jewelry. “None of your damn business.” Mallory snarled. Elizabeth was taken aback. She had never seen Mallory in such a towering rage before. He cast his eyes over toward her and they nearly became panicked when they caught sight of her. “What the hell are you doing here?” She stared around her and then decided that he was definitely addressing her. “I am trying to do what Ethan told me to do.” “Oh a riddle,” Chastity exclaimed. “And what did that little pratt tell you to do?” “Take care of getting rid of you,” Elizabeth said facing her head on. “Oh what are you going to do hit me with your reticule or your parasol?” she emitted a cruel laugh though Elizabeth merely smiled. “I am going to fight you with this,” she said brandishing her cutlass. “Oh I doubt that you even know how to use that,” Chastity scoffed tearing her eyes away from Elizabeth and leveling them on Mallory instead. “Did you know that your little whore was ready to fight for you? The love that you two share is actually touching. Though I would wager that I am a far better shag than she is.” “Keep your hatch shut,” Mallory threatened stepping toward her. “Well paint me black and blue. Is that Antonio that I see crawling along the deck over there?” Chastity asked obviously alarmed. “Aye. I shot him in the knee. I don’t think he will be walking properly ever again in fact he might not even be able to save his leg.” She kept her voice as indifferent as she was able. She

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

118

knew that Antonio deserved what she had done for he was a man that raped and killed with absolutely no mercy. He was a bastard of the first rate class and she prayed that he would rot in hell. “Utter rot. I don’t believe that a little waif like you could take down my man.” “Oh well then you would be sadly mistaken.” She slanted her mouth into a caustic smile and watched as Chastity’s smug expression suddenly underwent a startling transformation. “Then I shall gladly fight you,” Chastity said. “Sorry old man but we shall have to get together some other time. In fact I don’t really know what to do with you outside of playing with you.” Elizabeth moved forward and was jerked back suddenly when Mallory grabbed a hold of her arm. “What are you thinking?” he hissed. “I am thinking that I shall save you the heartache of having to kill a woman. For you know as well as I do that Chastity will never stop until she’s twenty leagues under the sea.” “I can’t allow you to do this. I am supposed to be the one that protects you.” “From a woman?” she asked. Just then another pirate that obviously was with Antonio’s company came lunging at them. “You deal with that and I will do the honors with that one.” She said nodding toward Chastity. “Don’t worry little miss I’ll have you taken care of in a few scant minutes.” “Oh why don’t you go to hell,” she muttered. Mallory took the intended cue and met the advancing pirate head on. Elizabeth sighed and gripped the hilt of her cutlass firmly. She wouldn’t allow Chastity to get away with all that she had done. The Royal Navy should have succeeded in hanging her for she definitely had done enough terrible things in her life to warrant that most horrible of fates. “How shall you fight me? Do you even know how to use that thing? You do know that it is sharp do you not?” “Oh aye. I am a fair sword master how do you fare?” “I was taught by Antonio,” Chastity answered smugly. “Oh well then. I was taught by the greatest sword master to ever grace England’s shores.” She had Chastity truly alarmed now. Beads of sweat were popping out on Chastity’s forehead despite the fact that there was a cool breeze blowing. Breathing deeply she met Chastity’s advancing charge. Her blow was strong and swift but it was enough to keep her from deflecting it. They were fighting in a close space and Chastity was very close to the bulwarks. If she timed everything right she might be able to back her up against the proverbial wall. The Valiant was being boarded again and men were climbing across from The Lady’s Warrior The fighting was tense and close and Elizabeth had not anticipated the extent of Chastity’s skill. Her breathing became rapid as she jumped out of the way of one of Chastity’s thrusts. She had to end this and quickly or else she would find herself impaled on the end of Chastity’s Spanish cutlass. She swung her arm up to block another one of Chastity’s thrusts. “You do know that I had him first.” Chastity said laughing. Chastity was trying to goad her and for some unexplainable reason it was working. “But I’ll have him forever. You won’t see forever.” She brought her fist up and punched Chastity right in the face. Chastity’s head snapped back and when she brought her had back to stare at her she curled her lips into a sneer. “That wasn’t very ladylike,” she spat out. Blood gushed out of her mouth along with a few teeth.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

119

“When I am fighting with someone with your sordid reputation I take my own interpretation of the rules. Besides since I’m just a stuck up snob then you’re just a pirate and whore.” Chastity was in a full out rage now. “You shall die today you stupid bitch!” she screamed. They had switched positions during the fight and she was now standing up against the bulwarks. She narrowed her eyes in a crafty slant and stepped out of her way. Chastity’s momentum was great and she could not slow down. She went toppling over the rail and crashed into the sea. Elizabeth rushed over to peer over the side and found Mallory standing by her. “Where is she?” Mallory asked searching the crashing waves. “I do not know,” Elizabeth said shrugging her shoulders. “But she is a good swimmer. I daresay we might see her again.” “You didn’t kill her then?” “I found that I couldn’t do it.” She was surprised at her confession but she realized that it was the God’s honest truth. “You might not be able to kill her but I can,” Antonio said lurching toward them. He had wrapped a makeshift bandage around his knee but his wound was still very serious. Elizabeth followed Antonio’s gaze as it swept across the landscape resting on Chastity who was now desperately trying to climb up onto The Destroyer. “She failed me and she is running away from the battle. I will not tolerate cowards.” He aimed his pistol and shot Chastity in the back. The woman let out an animalistic howl and then she plummeted into the sea. Antonio threw his pistol away and then turned his attention to Mallory and Elizabeth. Mallory shoved her behind him and she let out an indignant snort. She tried to push him out of the way but he was unmovable. “Your fight is with me Antonio.” “Actually my fight is with that little tart that you are so selflessly protecting. She must be pretty good in bed I tried to sample her wares when I had her onboard my ship but she proved to be quite a handful.” He laughed and the coldness of it tore straight into Elizabeth’s being. She watched stricken with dumbfounded horror as he pulled out his pistol and aimed it at Mallory. Elizabeth’s heart and mind raced in perfect time. Mallory was without a pistol. She knew that because she hadn’t caught sight of any on his person and he definitely didn’t have one shoved down his pants. She couldn’t let Antonio kill him. Not in such a cold-blooded way. Her instincts took over and putting all her weight behind her she shoved Mallory off balance just as Antonio discharged his pistol. They went crashing to the ground. The sound of the shot had been so deafening that Elizabeth’s ears still rang. She couldn’t feel any pain so she assumed that Antonio had missed altogether except for the fact that she had blood on her hand. “Damn no don’t you die on me!” she pleaded pulling him against her. She stared up through a haze of tears coupled with the smoke that billowed around her. Antonio was lying a few feet away from her with his eyes frozen in a surprised expression. He was by all appearances dead. She breathed out a large gust of wind. From out of the crowded men a lone woman emerged. It was Mary. “Saints preserve me. Is he alive?” she asked rushing toward Elizabeth. “I do not know,” Elizabeth answered quickly. She did not know what to say for Mary was unlike any other woman that she had ever met. Soft yet strong she was a force to be reckoned

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

120

with. Mary knelt down beside her and gently prodded Mallory with her hand. “Your Grace?” she asked softly. Mallory let out a long agonized groan and then fluttered his eyes open. Elizabeth’s head was a jumble of incoherent thoughts. “What did you say?” she asked feeling her stomach plummet. Her hands began to tremble and she bit down on her lower lip to keep from crying out in frustration. He had lied to her! She had given herself to him without even knowing who and what he was. “Elizabeth,” Mallory implored as she stood up and began backing away from him. He had not been shot only knocked senseless and if she had her way she would knock him for another loop. “You lied to me!” her voice came out as a strangled sob and she knew she was spitting fire through her eyes. He stumbled to his feet and tried to reach a hand out toward her but she slapped it away. “Please Elizabeth. We can talk about this.” “Talk about what? You are a duke for God’s sake. You should have told me. That was an important part of your past you know.” She could not believe what was going on. She kept backing away until she slammed into Seamus. He caught her and kept her from falling. Charles stood by his side beaming up at her. Teardrops were slipping down her cheeks and splattering onto the deck. He had not trusted her enough to tell her who he was. Furthermore he had to be a greedy bugger if he had stolen her for her money. Any of the dukes she knew in England were rolling in gold coins. “We can talk about this. Please Elizabeth I love you,” he murmured talking another tentative step toward her. “What is your real name?” she asked feeling short of breath. She wondered if she was suffocating. “My real name is Mallory St. Martin.” Horrified by his confession she struggled to remain upright on her wobbly legs. “That was my mother’s family name.” Her voice sounded as if it was coming to her down a long hollow hallway. “Aye that is because we are distant cousins.” Shutting her eyes she let out a shocked gasp. She riveted her eyes on him and tried to catch her breath. “I hate you,” she spat out just as her world tilted upside down. And for the third time in her young life Elizabeth Caulfield fainted dead away.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

121

Chapter Twenty-Eight “I can’t believe you didn’t tell her who you were.” Mary’s voice had raised another octave and Mallory winced against it. Ronald stood on the other side of the cabin and gave him a look that clearly told Mallory that Ronald thought he was an idiot. “I admit I was wrong. But I did not want her to know my true identity.” “Well,” Mary scoffed. “Did you not think she would find out once you succeeded in dragging her to the altar? She should have told me that you had kidnapped her. I would have told her to tell you to shove it.” “I love her.” “Now you do you stupid fool. But can you tell me that you wouldn’t have married her and taken her money even if you discovered that it was a mere infatuation instead of a life altering love?” “I do not know,” Mallory admitted. He stared at the floor and wished that he could find his way to Elizabeth’s bedside. “Of course she does not know that her bastard of a father cheated you out of your legacy.” “I did not tell her.” “Do you know what landed you in this mess in the first place?” “My need to reclaim my legacy.” His voice was flat and she raised her red eyebrows another notch. “No, that wasn’t it. It was your damnably stubborn pride. Why you are sometimes the most priggish man that I have ever met.” “Please Mary,” he said raking his hands through his hair. “I am tormented enough without thinking about what I could have done or should have done. I have lost my entire world. Elizabeth refuses to speak with me and I fear that we shall never be able to reconcile for you protect her as if you were a bloody lioness and she was your cub. She still says that she hates me. I shall never be able to overcome that. And then just this morning I asked Seamus to fetch Ethan for me. And then I realized after the fact that Ethan was dead. So pray save your lectures. I shall go back to The Valiant now and when we reach Portsmouth I will give Elizabeth back her ship. She may rest easy in knowing that I will never torment her again. But you may relay one message to her. Tell her that I shall wait until the end of time itself to have her back in my arms.” “Then you do truly love her?” Mary studied him intently. “I love her as Andrew loved you.” Mary stiffened and glanced over at Ronald who was as quiet as a mouse. He didn’t seem bothered in the least bit which met that Mary had told him about Matthew. “Then you should not have to live without her. I shall try to talk some sense into her but I can not make any promises.” He beamed at Mary and rushed forward to take her hand. “Thank you. You are an angel sent down from God, Mary Higgins.” “I know,” Mary murmured. A soft smile played at the corner of her lips. Mallory embraced her quickly and planted a kiss on her cheek. Then he saluted Higgins and walked out of the cabin. Soon he would be back on his own ship and within a day or two they would be in England. He prayed to God that somehow Elizabeth would find her way back

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

122

into his arms. **** Elizabeth stared up from the book that she held in her hands and sighed with relief when she realized that it was Mary. “I have met with him,” Mary said plopping down into the small chair by the bed. “That is wonderful,” Elizabeth said turning her attention back to the chapter she was reading. Mary swooped down upon her and wrenched the book out of her hand. “You must listen to me.” “I am listening.” “Aye but as soon as I mention his name again you shall turn off your hearing.” Elizabeth looked her straight in the eyes and folded her hands in her lap. “Go on I am listening.” “Fine I will. Mallory still loves you. I can see it by the haggard look he wears on his face and by the dark circles that rim his eyes. He is going mad without you. Would you have that on your conscience?” “I do not feel anything when it comes to that pirate.” “Oh yes you do or else you would not show such vehemence whenever someone mentions his name. You cannot stay mad at him forever. I wager that your heart will not allow you to.” “You know nothing about this. You do not know what it is like to love a man that can make you crazy.” “Oh yes I do.” Elizabeth stared up at her and caught Mary at a weak moment for an expression of pure anguish had crossed her features. “You forget too easily. I was in love with his brother.” “I am sorry.” “Yes well nothing can be done about your love affair. It was ill fated and now I find myself without the man that made fire go rushing through my blood. But I am more than content with Ronald. He has given me a beautiful son and a wonderful life. But do not think that I do not sometimes dream of Matthew and wonder about what could have been. You have two paths set before you. If you decide to walk down the one path you will find an endless amount of happiness. You will have Mallory and all of his extended family. And you will also have the children that you and Mallory shall create. But if you don’t walk down that path you will be robbing yourself and cheating your future children out of their fulfilled and happy lives.” “You must be in jest.” “I have never been more serious about anything in my life. Mark my words Elizabeth and choose wisely. For if you do not make the right decision you will be haunted for the rest of your life.” “I can’t marry a man that has already lied to me so effortlessly. He shall do it again and again. It will be an endless circle.” “Mallory is a truly good man. He hasn’t a malicious bone in his body. He would never hurt you and he will take great care of you and shower you with love the likes of which only comes along in dreams.” Elizabeth wanted to believe everything that Mary said. She wanted to throw herself in Mallory’s arms. But she could not bring herself to do it. “He has told me too many lies. Why ever would he kidnap me when he is a powerful and

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

123

wealthy duke?” “Powerful yes but wealthy? I’m afraid not. He is struggling to keep his legacy from slipping away from him. In order to save it all he needs your hefty purse. If he does not all will be lost for him and I am afraid of what he might be driven to do.” “What do you mean?” “His father the late Duke of Haverston lost everything to your father in a game of whist. The only thing that he was left with was a large amount of debt. Your father has graciously allowed his sisters and his mother to remain on in a small manor house on one of his former estates. Soon I fear your father will tell them to leave entirely and then they will have nothing. His family has fallen and fallen hard. But your Mallory is far too proud to take any offering of charity from his friends. He is determined to reclaim his inheritance all on his own.” “It shall be a fruitless quest. My father will make sure that he never gets back what is rightfully his.” “Aye but you told me that your father was on his deathbed.” “Aye he is. And if he dies and leaves me everything then I shall sell Mallory’s legacy back to him at a fraction of the price. But until then I can do nothing for the poor bastard.” Mary sighed heavily and stared at her imploringly. “If he knew that he had you he would be filled with a new fighting spirit.” “Well he doesn’t have me and he never shall,” she whispered. The finality of her words consumed the room almost as if she had slammed down a gavel. The following days passed by in a daze. Elizabeth kept to her cabin most of the time. Mary had told her that Mallory was now taking care of Charles. She often wondered about the both of them and as time went by she found that her anger toward Mallory was slowly fading. How could she fault him for wanting to reclaim his lands? In a weird sort of way she knew that her mother would have sympathized with Mallory and that she would have been rooting for his triumph over her father. So she had begun to chart a course of action that she would take against both her father and Mallory. By the time she was done with the two of them they would each be in awe of her. She walked at of her cabin and headed for the deck. The Valiant was weighing anchor and they were docking right next to The Lady’s Warrior. Soon she would be on solid ground again. She felt Mary come up beside her and her Declan was cuddled in her arms. Elizabeth smiled down at the babe and made a funny face at him. She couldn’t wait to walk down the gangplank. All that she wanted was to make it back to her nearby townhouse. It was taking quite a while to go through the necessary procedures of coming into port. Suddenly her eyes were drawn to a large figure standing amidst a crowd on the docks. “Well I’ll be damned,” she muttered. “What is it?” Mary asked. Elizabeth pointed to the docks and groaned. “That bastard tricked me. He was in England all of that time. Deathbed my arse. He looks as fit as a fiddle. I guess my spies weren’t as skilled or as faithful as I believed them to be.” “I don’t follow,” Mary said kissing Declan. “That rather large man surrounded by that crowd is my father. He looks healthier than I do.” She wanted to scream out in frustration but kept her mouth firmly shut for fear of frightening Declan. “He must have had spies stationed on the docks for he could have had no way of knowing that I was coming into port.” “What will you do now?”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

124

“I shall play the part of the dutiful daughter. But now that I think of it I do believe that my father needs to learn a few lessons taught by me. Can I count on your assistance?” “I shall do whatever you wish,” Mary murmured staring at her quizzically. “As long as it doesn’t involve dancing with your father that is. I don’t want to get within two feet of him.” Mary shuddered. Elizabeth chuckled and then relayed her whole masterful plan to Mary. Before long she would have her father going mad. **** Mallory watched her carefully as she walked onto the docks. He could not keep his eyes off her. “She will find her way back to you,” Seamus declared puffing on his infernal pipe. “For once Seamus I pray that you are right.” He walked down onto the docks and was surprised when Higgins rushed over to him and intercepted him. “Mary told me that you will probably be hitting some of the gaming hells tonight and then returning to the call of the sea.” “Perhaps. I shall visit my family tomorrow and then in about a fortnight I shall have to answer the call of the sea.” Higgins nodded his head adamantly. “Of course of course. Shall you be at the Danby Club tonight?” “I think that I might.” “How well do you fare at cards?” “I am able to hold my own.” He narrowed his eyes wondering at the man’s line of questioning. “Excellent. My wife tells me that Geoffrey Caulfield is over there bragging about his many wins at that particular gaming hell. He shall be there tonight. If you know what is good for you, you shall make sure that you are there, as well. I would expect that you will be able to challenge the pompous prig to a game of whist.” Higgins left without another word and Mallory followed him with his eyes wondering what had inspired such a strange line of conversation. “Well Seamus now that we are respectable merchant sailors for the next fortnight I see no harm in going to that gaming hell tonight do you?” “I would say that tonight just might be your lucky night.” “Aye that’s exactly what I was thinking.” He winked at Seamus and left the docks for the entertainment that Portsmouth offered. Perhaps he would find something that would take his mind off Elizabeth. He groaned and then realized that all of the rum whisky or port in the world wouldn’t be able to do that.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

125

Chapter Twenty-Nine Elizabeth had a long night ahead of her. She stared at her reflection in the mirror. Her father had just left for his night on the town. As she had suspected there was absolutely nothing the matter with her father. Well he was still a jackass but she knew that nothing could cure that ailment. She pulled on her dark green jacket and smoothed out her trousers. Now all that she had to do was don her wig moustache and spectacles. Then she would be ready to take her revenge. She walked over to her dressing table and stared down at the miniature portrait of her mother. Mallory’s hair had been tucked inside of the locket and she picked it up to run it through her bare fingers before she pulled on her gloves. Sighing heavily she shut her eyes and whispered a plea for forgiveness. Tonight she would succeed and she would have everything back that she had lost. She walked out of her bedchamber and down the marble staircase. The servants had all retired and she would be able to slip out unnoticed and climb into Mary’s waiting carriage. Her outfit felt strange for she had not disguised herself as a man for over three months. She by-passed the sleeping footman that stood on watch until her father returned and slipped out the door. She walked down the steps and smiled when Mary’s carriage pulled into view. The footman climbed down and opened the door and lowered the steps so that she could climb up. She settled herself next to Mary and then Ronald tapped the ceiling with his walking stick to tell the driver to move on. “Goodness gracious! If I had not been prepared I would have never suspected that it was you.” Mary’s eyes were wide and Ronald merely chuckled. “Then you don’t think that Mallory will recognize me do you?” “I daresay not.” Mary shook her head adamantly and then smiled “Though when he does discover the truth he will think that he has gone straight to Bedlam.” “Oh Mary. I would say that she does look the part of an effeminate dandy.” “Yes I suppose so,” Mary relented. “I don’t care one way or the other so long as it gains me admittance to the Danby Club as your guest.” “You can be sure that it will.” “Of course it will,” Mary decided. “I shall wait in the carriage outside until Ronald introduces you to Mallory and then the two of us shall take our leave.” “I don’t know how I can ever thank the two of you for your help.” “Think nothing of it. Though perhaps we could use your townhouse in Brighton during the little season.” “Ronald!” Mary exclaimed. “We do not expect anything from you my dear. Except that is to make Mallory a happy man.” “Oh you can bet on that one,” Elizabeth sighed. They were nearing The Danby Club and before she knew it she would be bowing to Mallory as if she had just been introduced to him. She would have to watch her tongue closely for she did not want to accidentally call him by his first name for that would definitely blow her ship right out of the water. “Here we are,” Ronald said as they drew up to the gaming hell. “Godspeed you two,” Mary murmured squeezing Elizabeth’s gloved hand affectionately.

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

126

“I think that when this night is through Mallory will discover that you are the rarest jewel on Earth.” “I dearly hope so,” Elizabeth murmured sliding toward the door. She climbed down the steps and inhaled deeply. It was a clear night and the stars were visible in the sky. She followed Ronald up the steps and stopped as he gave in his card. They were soon admitted and found Mallory over by the billiards tables. She could not see her father anywhere though she knew that he would turn up in due course. “Your Grace I have brought you a gaming partner for tonight. My friends say that he is the best whist player this side of the Atlantic.” “Is that so?” Mallory asked inclining his head toward her. She looked away and tried to keep herself from suffocating. “Aye,” she managed to stammer out. She had lowered her voice and hoped that it would convince him just as it had convinced so many men before him. “His Grace I wager will find in due course that you will prove yourself a worthy partner.” “Oh I hope so,” she murmured still avoiding his gaze. “To whom do I have the privilege of having as my gaming partner?” Mallory asked studying her with that intent gaze of his. “Forgive me Your Grace I should have made introductions before this. Might I introduce Mister Evan Sterling? He hails from Warwickshire.” “Indeed,” Mallory said. Elizabeth held her breath for a moment or two and then dipped into a respectful bow. “Evan as you already realize this is His Grace the Eighth Duke of Haverston.” She remained silent and then waited for Mallory to make the next move. “Well there he is now.” Mallory looked as if he had just sucked a lemon. Elizabeth turned around and felt her mouth go dry at the sight of her father. Now came the moment for her to shine and reclaim the only thing that truly mattered to her. “Your Grace,” she called out. Mallory turned and walked back toward her. Ronald as planned had done his disappearing act and Mallory didn’t even seem to care. “Yes?” She still could not believe the way that Mallory looked and was behaving. She would have never guessed that he was a sea thief for he stood regally tall and his manners were above reproach. For a moment or two she found herself actually wondering if he was the man that she had fallen in love with. “You must wager everything. I feel quite sure of victory this night.” “Confident eh? Well I shall take you at your word but be forewarned Evan I shall not be a happy man if we lose everything.” They settled themselves at the gaming table and Elizabeth had a moment of pure panic when she was introduced to her father. She felt certain that he was going to recognize her but he didn’t seem fazed in the slightest. Why he was even more of an insufferable prig than she had originally supposed. As she accepted her cards she found herself unconsciously glancing at Mallory out of the corner of her eye. She had sorely missed being next to him. She bit down on her lips and sighed. He turned a quizzical eye on her but said nothing. She was so intent upon studying her cards that she did not even notice the strange way that his eyes had gazed at her. She was bound

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

127

and determined to claim victory over her father. Her father on the other hand believed that he truly was playing with Mallory. She yearned to whisper some words of encouragement into Mallory’s ear but knew that then she would risk giving herself away. They began playing and played for a few minutes before her father cleared his throat and interrupted the game. “So what shall we be laying bets on?” Geoffrey Caulfield asked staring at Mallory with his beady little eyes. “I shall be betting on everything that you stole from my father.” Mallory’s voice was cold so cold that Elizabeth wanted to shiver. “Your Grace,” she mumbled as he turned to look at her. “I do not want to overstep my bounds but perhaps you should ask for some compensation as well. Say all of his lands in England not to mention a few thousand pounds and his daughter.” She coughed and stared down at the tricks that had been played already. She had a winning hand now all that she had to hope was that Mallory would go along with her. He stared at her in open-mouthed amazement. “What’s this? What are the two of you whispering about?” She groaned and kept herself from smiling. Her father was losing his hearing and she knew that it had to be driving him mad to not know what was going on. “If you throw that bet in you will soon find that everything will be yours.” Mallory’s eyes flashed with blue fire and then he turned back to her father. “Since you did not hear old man I will tell you. I want everything you own in England including your daughter.” “Now see here young man,” Geoffrey muttered. “You shall address him as Your Grace,” Elizabeth snapped. She wanted to get up from where she sat and walk over to him and give him a good slap across the face. Instead she remained seated and prayed for patience. “Your Grace then,” her father repeated. “I have some lovely properties here in England that I purchased for a right handy price. I shall not give them over to an upstart like you.” “Begging your pardon sir but you aren’t giving them over. His Grace shall have to win them first.” Her father grumbled for a bit more and then let out a large sigh. “Fine then. Have it your way. But I shall be the one left laughing when all of this is said and done. I honestly do not know why I am worrying so much. It isn’t as if you shall win anyway.” He smirked at them and threw his card into the pile. The little bastard had not even been concerned about losing her in the bid but he would soon find that his world was about to be ripped right out from underneath him. Elizabeth’s heart had stopped for the briefest of moments but as soon as she saw her father’s card she knew that she had finally outfoxed the fox. “I would not be getting too cocky sir for I do believe that my trick trumps your trick.” She carefully placed her card face up on the deck and watched as her father’s face fell. He rested his eyes on her Ace of Spades and then he began blustering. “It would seem Your Grace that you can walk away from this table a winning man.” “Thanks to you I can.” He smiled at her and she felt her heart skip a beat. She leaned over toward him and whispered in his ear. “You asked me to teach you how to win well if you do not know now then I fear that I will never be able to teach you.” She smiled at him and placed her hands on the table. He remained motionless and she wondered if he had even understood what she had said. Her father was working himself up into quite a temper and as she

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

128

pushed herself to her feet she couldn’t help but hope that he would just disappear. When she turned to leave the table Mallory was asking for the deeds to his property. Smiling she made her way through the throng of assembled men. They nodded at her as she passed with looks of admiration. She had finally triumphed even if she had not succeeded in winning her hearts desire. She stumbled past the rest of the men and somehow made it out of The Danby Club. Mary and Ronald had already left and now she was left to her own devices. She gripped her walking stick and stared up at the street lanterns. She wanted to find a coach for hire and get back to her townhouse before her father could reach it. She heard someone pounding down the steps behind her and let out a startled exclamation when that someone grabbed a hold of her arm and pulled her around. Speechless she stared at Mallory. He raked his eyes over her and they were full of hungry desire. “Did I hear you right?” His question was spoken so quickly that she nearly did not catch it. “Yes,” she muttered. She blinked against the oncoming tears which always seemed to be plaguing her. She dropped her gaze to the street and then looked up when she felt his hand on her chin. He tilted her face up so that he could drink her up with his eyes. She stared over his shoulder when she heard a familiar voice. Groaning she stepped away from Mallory and turned around when she saw the look of fury on her father’s face. Had he realized who she was and the part that she had played in tonight’s trick? “St. Martin I want my property returned to me.” “Well I am happy to say that you can’t have it back.” She could imagine the ear-to-ear grin that was by now splitting across Mallory’s gorgeous face. “Now see here you young rascal I shall have it back from you one way or another.” “I do not think that you wish to go any further.” Mallory’s voice had turned deadly and if her father had any brains left in his fat head he would take the cue and run the other way. “I do not care for your impertinent tone young man.” She grimaced and turned back around. Now she knew that her father didn’t have any brains left in his fat head. “Well I do not care what you think,” Mallory returned “But if I were you I would be taking my leave right about now.” “Do not presume to tell me what to do.” “When you are in my country I shall presume to do whatever I wish. I’m sorry to tell you this Geoffrey but here in England I hold all of the cards. If you push any further I will make sure that certain people make life a living hell for you.” “You still do not realize when you are speaking to your betters.” “I have grown weary of you. Unless you are an addle-brained nitwit you will already know that I am a Duke here in good old merry England. Just in case you were not aware that position holds a great amount of sway in London.” Elizabeth watched the exchange with hope in her heart. Then her father put the icing on the cake when he took a swing at Mallory. Mallory of course easily blocked the punch and then returned it in kind. Her father was knocked clear off of his pudgy little feet. By the time someone had helped him to his feet Elizabeth was already walking away from the scene. But she couldn’t escape Mallory that easily. “Elizabeth I know that it’s you.” She slowly turned around and smiled sheepishly. “If you must know I recognized you as soon as you let out that rather womanly sigh. I have told you in the past that you can never escape me. Now do you believe me?”

I’LL BE YOURS

Marly Mathews

129

“Why would you want me now after I turned you away?” He laughed and stepped closer to her. “In case you blacked out for a moments back there I just won you in a game of whist.” “I know. But I also know that you aren’t the type of man to hold me to that bargain. You do not need me anymore. As you can see my father is alive and well and I fear that he shall live for another good twenty years.” “Maybe so. But none of it matters to me anymore. You are correct in your assumption. I do not need that bastard’s money anymore and I pray that I shall never see him again. But I if do not have you nothing else matters.” She licked her lips and walked toward him. “Let me just clarify a few things. First of all I shall not marry you unless you agree that I am my own independent woman.” “Agreed.” He kept his eyes trained on her almost as if he were afraid that she was about to disappear into thin air. “And you must agree to never leave me behind no matter what.” “Not even if I want to go to sea?” “Not even if you want to go to sea. I am willing to brave unimaginable dangers as long as I am by your side. For this must be a partnership.” “I think we have been partners since our very first meeting.” He smiled at her and she could feel her heart melting. Mary had been right. She was about to walk down the path that she had always been destined for. “In that case Mallory St. Martin, I’ll be yours,” she whispered her last profession and then fell into his arms. Their kiss was filled with insatiable hunger and she knew that for once and for all she had found a place to call home.

The End