Siren Menage Amour

Lords of Hawksfell Manor 1

Gabriel’s Guests Gabriel Hawk’s family has long been rutting bastards cursed by their lusts. He can’t find release alone without pain, so he staffs his grand estate Hawksfell Manor with servants to please him. When a storm brings two unexpected guests to the manor, he can’t send them away. Lady Millicent Crowley must marry within three months to get her inheritance. She’s fond of her third cousin Michael but she wants more. She suggested this ill-fated car trip to sort out her feelings. She hadn’t counted on the storm washing them up on Gabriel’s doorstep. Gabriel is attracted to both Crowleys, and they both want him, too. He believes passion is passion, but as the three of them learn how to please each other he feels more for them both. Can he learn that love is love? Or will they find out his secret and leave him forever? Genre: Historical, Ménage a Trois/Quatre Length: 27,804 words

GABRIEL’S GUESTS Lords of Hawksfell Manor 1

Josie Dennis

MENAGE AMOUR

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Ménage Amour GABRIEL’S GUESTS Copyright © 2012 by Josie Dennis E-book ISBN: 978-1-62241-058-3 First E-book Publication: September 2012 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Gabriel’s Guests by Josie Dennis from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Josie Dennis’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Dennis’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION To Ron, one of the managers of my favorite bookstore. When I told him about the new series of lascivious lords I was contemplating, he suggested I set it in a place like that big old house on that popular TV show. Thus Hawksfell Manor was created!

GABRIEL’S GUESTS Lords of Hawksfell Manor 1 JOSIE DENNIS Copyright © 2012

Chapter 1 Yorkshire, England 1912 Lord Gabriel Hawk, the Earl of Hawksfell, poured a generous amount of brandy into his glass then set the empty bottle aside for his attentive staff to refill. Dinner had been fine, eaten in solitude as usual. It was too early to find his bed, despite the lure of the fine linens and ample pillows. The fire crackled behind the grate as if fighting against the rain and wind outside, doing little to warm him. Too many years spent alone had inured him to the solace found in common comforts. It was how he wanted things, in truth. As a Hawk, it was his due. The family was well known in their part of Yorkshire, infamous really. His father, his father’s father, his uncles and cousins, had all fucked their way through the county over the past decades. More bastards, half uncles, and cousins than Gabriel could count littered the countryside. They were all acknowledged, given titles to reflect their respective sire’s status, and apparently bent on continuing the tradition of populating half of Yorkshire without benefit of marriage or commitment. They didn’t seem to be able to cease this behavior. Maybe the first woman wronged by a Hawk cursed all the males in

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their line, or perhaps they were just bred to be a randy bunch of bastards. Gabriel didn’t know the answer to that generations-old riddle, but as the eldest living Hawk, who was he to buck tradition? His ascension to the earldom had come about two months earlier, when his father went down with the Titanic. No doubt he’d been rutting his way across the Atlantic when the ship hit that bloody iceberg. He searched for a flicker of grief, but he’d never been close to his sire. And now he kept to his dark manor. He chose not to frequent the pub in the nearby village of Helmsley with their generous serving wenches. When he was younger, he’d gone there often. He’d taken more girls than he could remember, in more ways than should be possible. Now he made certain to hire servants who knew how to serve their master within the manor’s thick stone walls. “More brandy, my lord?” a feminine voice inquired from the doorway. Gabriel looked over to find his newest maid standing there, a bottle of liquor held in her hands. She wore a starched black uniform with a crisp white apron and matching cap on her head. His man of affairs, Grantley, did well with the new hire. She was a pretty thing, dark and sultry with large eyes and full lips. He felt his cock fill as he studied those lips. Every servant knew what was required when they worked at Hawksfell Manor. Serve the appetites of the lord in residence. In fact, it was rumored that his own mother had been a scullery maid at the manor, but she’d relinquished any claim on him after he was born for a hefty monetary reward. As cursed as they were with lust, they were blessed to have more money than Croesus. He didn’t go about things as the other Hawks had in the past or did now, for he didn’t want a by-blow to inherit. True, he had no notion what it meant to feel a mother’s loving touch. He didn’t wish any child of his to go without it, however. Better his particular line died with him.

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Thus he preferred to spill his seed safely, in the welcoming mouth of a pretty maid or on her soft belly once he pulled out of her tight, wet pussy. Of course when he fucked one of the grooms or a footman, procreation was never an issue. “Come here,” he said, gentling the command with a smile. “Please.” She took a few steps into the room. “What is your name again?” he asked. “Mary,” she answered. Her tongue snuck out to lick those full lips of hers, and she swallowed. “Are you requiring anything tonight?” His smile widened as his blood beat thick and low. “Yes, Mary.” He began to unbutton his trousers. “Are you ready to serve me?” She stared at his shaft, which was throbbing now and huge in his hand, and her pupils dilated. “Yes, my lord.” She came closer and set the bottle on the table beside him then sank to her knees. **** Afterward, Gabriel helped the maid to her feet and nodded. “That will be all, Mary.” She smiled up at him and left him in familiar solitude. He was kind and generous to his staff, and it was really only once or twice a year he had to dismiss a servant due to emotional attachment. Theirs to him, of course. He never let himself feel anything for anyone. Settling back down in his chair, he fought off the shame attempting to wrap itself around his heart. He paid his servants well. He never abused a one of them or made them do anything that didn’t bring them pleasure, too. It was necessary to provide an outlet for the blasted Hawk lusts that ran so high in his veins. God knew he’d tried over the years to satisfy himself with his hand, earning nothing but stabbing pain in his belly and an

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excruciating erection that lasted hours with no hope of release. It seemed sex in any manner had to be with another. It had taken him some time, but he’d found a way to satisfy the craving without hurting anyone. If each encounter left him feeling a bit hollow inside, that was something he would deal with in the distant future. He poured a generous glass of spirits and listened to the spring storm raging outside. Tonight, he’d drink and then sleep alone. Again. **** “Michael, please!” Lady Millicent Crowley cried. “You’ll overturn the car.” Michael Crowley, her third cousin and second son to the Earl of Munson, pulled back with a pout on his handsome face. “We are to be married, Millicent. Is it too much to ask for a kiss?” She quirked a smile at him. “I’ve granted you far more than a kiss, Michael.” He reddened, looking much younger than his twenty-five years. “Ah yes, your lovely touch. I’m hard in my trousers recalling it.” She straightened and gave a nod. “Then perhaps you can let us arrive at our aunt’s in safety?” He nodded and sat back, wrapping his gloved hands tightly around the steering wheel. The Daimler was Michael’s favorite car, though she’d never before seen him wear such a look of intensity as he drove it. “We should have had the chauffeur take us,” she offered. “This is my car, Millie,” Michael said. “I drive it.” She blinked at his determined tone. A storm raged outside, wind buffeting the vehicle as rain pounded the roof and sides. The car lurched from side to side, the well-sprung cushions doing little to keep her from bouncing about. Michael now wore a grave expression as he fought to keep the car steady. A shiver of unease went through

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her. It had been her idea to get away to their aunt’s in the wilds of Yorkshire, though neither of them knew much of their relative. Yes, Millicent had to wed in three months’ time or lose her inheritance, but she wanted to see a bit of the countryside before settling down with Michael for the rest of her life. Michael was kind to insist on marrying her, and his kisses were as sweet as his temperament. Though he was in fact a year older than her, she felt she always had to be the one in charge. For once she would like him to take control, and not just where their travels were concerned. His shock yesterday in the parlor as she’d brought him to climax had been almost comical. She’d been left wanting, but in his stunned condition she hadn’t dared to ask him to touch her to ease her need. Thunder crashed overhead, and the car shook. Her warm thoughts scattered in the ensuing melee, and she gripped on to Michael’s arm as the vehicle listed sharply to the left. She fell against the door, and then the car righted itself onto its wheels. The vehicle was decidedly sunk in the mud. Michael cursed and slapped the wheel. She could see his hands shaking. “Are you all right?” he asked at last, his eyes squeezed shut. She nodded. “Yes, yes.” She brushed her hair out of her face. Michael turned to her then, his brows knit over his blue eyes. “We can’t go any farther, Millie.” Swallowing an unladylike curse, she blew out a breath. “What are we to do? Are we anywhere near our aunt’s?” “About thirty miles away, I wager. Perhaps as far as we’ve come from Scarborough.” “Is there anywhere close to stay?” she asked. “An inn, perhaps?” “Twenty miles back,” he grumbled. Millicent looked out the windscreen, seeing little in the pouring rain. She could just make out a large structure high on the hill above them, huge and hulking. Lights burned in the windows. “What is

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that?” Michael squinted through his window. “Hawksfell Manor, I believe. Heard of it back at that inn.” “A manor?” she asked. “Are they a titled family?” He shrugged. “I think I heard someone talking about the Earl of Hawksfell.” “Hawksfell?” It sounded so ancient. No doubt the earl was a doddering old nobleman with pinched lips and watery eyes. Lovely. “It looks like he’s currently in residence, at least,” Michael said. “Then we shall go impose upon his hospitality,” she said. Michael blew out a breath. “I suppose we must. And get quite wet in the process.” “We’re going to walk?” “What, do you believe fairies will sail across the moors and carry us up to the manor?” She found a smile. “I suppose not.” “Come, then. This storm doesn’t seem inclined to lessen any time soon.” His tone was clipped and brooked no refusal. “We’ll prevail upon the earl for shelter and ask him to send someone for our bags.” Millicent gazed at Michael in astonishment. Where was this forceful man last evening? He climbed out of the car, his hat pulled low, and hurried around to her side. The door opened, letting in a great gust of windswept rain. Her coat was soon soaked, but there was nothing else for it. She took Michael’s hand and stepped onto the slippery road. Michael held her tight, however. “Easy,” he said, dropping a kiss on her brow. It was sweet and just what she needed at the moment. “Let’s hurry,” he added. Her pretty felt hat gave little protection as they set off on the muddy path. Her heeled boots squished and slipped, so she held on to Michael’s arm as they made their way toward the manor. By the time they arrived, they were soaked to the skin and more than a little uncomfortable. Millicent’s hair had fallen from its pins

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and hung in soaking hanks from beneath her hat. Michael stomped along beside her, stoic and silent. His face showed a sort of worried determination, and apparently none of the apprehension she felt going to a complete stranger’s door in the middle of a stormy night. How could he not be worried? It was all so Gothic. They came up to the hulking structure, stopping before a wide door of thick oak. Another blessed flash of lightning showed her a massive iron knocker, so she grabbed it and let it fall. Any sound it might have made was lost as another clap of thunder bellowed overhead. “Bloody hell,” she heard Michael grumble. After a shorter time than she expected, the door was pulled open. There stood a portly butler, his lined face showing surprise. “May I help you?” “I am Michael Crowley and this is Lady Millicent Crowley,” Michael said. “We had an accident down on the road. May we beg your master for shelter?” The butler looked from him to Millicent then nodded. “Come into the hall. I shall speak with Lord Hawksfell.” The place was lit electrically, and Millicent could see that the earl had wealth. From the well-kept look of the place, he also employed plenty of staff to maintain the trappings of that wealth. Fine carpet underfoot, sadly seeping with water and mud now due to her and Michael’s ruined boots. Ornately dressed walls and soaring ceilings gave the place an air of prestige. The furnishings she could see from their vantage point were quite fine. “Who the devil are they?” she heard a deep voice question from somewhere off to the left. She didn’t hear the butler’s answer, but a maid soon appeared and removed their coats. Millicent unpinned her sodden hat and handed it to the girl. She disappeared, and Millicent brushed her hands over her skirt, doing little to improve her appearance. “Look at us. Like two drowned urchins.”

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Michael smiled. “You look lovely despite the spatters of mud on your face.” “My face?” She ran her gloved fingers over her cheek, and they came away smeared with mud. “Wonderful.” “Never mind. Let us meet our host and show him we can be charming guests despite our appearance.” A few moments later, the butler returned. “Lord Hawksfell will receive you in the parlor.” They followed the man down the hall, their footsteps squishing as they tread on the thick carpet. After pausing at a double set of paneled doors, the butler opened them and bowed. “Lady Millicent Crowley and Mr. Michael Crowley, my lord.” Millicent turned to thank the butler, but her breath caught as she glimpsed the tall man standing beside the crackling fireplace. She couldn’t have been more wrong in her preconceived notions of the Earl of Hawksfell. Lord, he was beautiful. And far from old. If she had to guess, she’d put his age at just this side of thirty. He was broad shouldered and long limbed. He had dark, waving hair, deep fathomless eyes, and a face she knew she’d see in her dreams. Finely chiseled nose and cheekbones, a cleft chin and full lips. Those lips were not smiling however, and his eyes were sharp as they roamed first over her and then Michael. “Thank you, Carstairs,” he said to the butler. “Have tea brought in for my…guests.”

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Chapter 2 Gabriel stared at the two bedraggled strangers dripping on his fine carpet. They were young, the man perhaps all of twenty-five and the girl younger still. They were a matched pair, quite fair beneath the mud and water with bright-blue eyes. The young man was lean yet strong looking and obviously protective of the young lady. He stood slightly in front of her. That should be no surprise, really. She was a beauty. He could see that despite the tangled mass of golden hair and mud-streaked dress. They favored each other so closely he wagered they must be siblings. “Well.” He waved toward the chairs closest to the hearth. “Do sit. You look chilled through.” The pair exchanged a look and stepped forward. “Thank you, Lord Hawksfell,” the young man said, leading the lady toward the chairs. “This is most generous of you.” “Yes, thank you,” the lady added, settling on the edge of one chair. “That storm seemed to come out of nowhere.” Her voice was a bit husky. He believed the young man would stay standing beside her, but the girl bade him to sit, and he did so at last. Gabriel sat to face them. He narrowed his eyes then leaned back. “Yes. There is little predictable about the weather out here on the moors. What brings you to this part of Yorkshire?” “Lady Millicent and I were on our way to visit our aunt when my automobile ran aground in the mud,” the young man said. “Not far from your drive, actually. I cannot tell you how fortunate we were to see the manor on the hill.” “Electric lights,” Gabriel answered. “How fortuitous indeed.”

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They apparently missed his meaning. Before his father had seen the placed electrified, it had been all but invisible in the dark. Once more he lamented that particular blasted modernization. A maid, not the talented Mary but another, came in with a tray of tea service and biscuits. She bobbed a curtsey and left. “The tea will help,” Gabriel said to the young woman. “Mr. Crowley, do you wish something stronger?” At the young man’s nod, he poured a brandy and handed it to him. Lady Millicent eyed the brandy with obvious regret then reached for a cup of tea. She was graceful despite the shaking apparently caused by the accident and their chilled walk up to the manor. “You said you were on your way to your aunt’s?” he asked. “From where?” “Scarborough,” the girl answered. Thirty miles at least and in this weather? “Your aunt. May I ask her name?” “Lady Edith Resling,” the young man provided. “Do you know her?” Gabriel shook his head. “I’m afraid not. Is she here in Yorkshire?” “Yes,” the lady provided. “Her estate sits in Northallerton.” Gabriel picked up the bottle of brandy again and held it over her cup. With a flick of her luminous blue eyes in the younger man’s direction, she gave a nod. Hiding a smile, he poured a few drops of liquor into her tea. “I take it you and your sister are expected?” he asked. “We are not brother and sister,” the young man asserted, his fair brows drawn together. Gabriel arched his brows. “Oh?” That cast a different light on the boy’s possessiveness of the lovely Lady Millicent. Pity. “We are cousins, Lord Hawksfell,” she said. “Third cousins, actually. And no, our aunt has no notion we were on our way.” He nodded then caught the look of longing on Michael Crowley’s face. The boy was besotted with her. That was certain. Gabriel felt a

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stab of regret. True, his blasted lusts had been satisfied for the time being, yet he couldn’t help but feel a pull of attraction to the pretty girl despite her condition or circumstance. “Do you not have a driver, Mr. Crowley?” “I drove myself,” he said. “My Daimler is usually most reliable.” “I daresay the roads in this part of Yorkshire differ from those in Scarborough, especially in such weather.” “Michael was doing a fine job,” Lady Millicent put in. Gabriel regarded her for a moment. She felt something for the young man as well. Jealousy mingled with the regret in his gut. “Well.” He came to his feet. “I trust your bags are in the car?” “Yes,” Michael answered, standing. “I wondered if we could trouble you further and beg assistance?” Gabriel waved a hand. “I’ll have someone retrieve them and bring them to your rooms.” “Our rooms?” Lady Millicent asked. He faced her. “I’m sorry, did you expect to share a room under my roof?” he asked, his tone harsher than he’d intended. She bristled, her blue eyes flashing. “I should say not! How dare you assume—” “Thank you, Lord Hawksfell,” Michael cut in. “My cousin was just remarking on your generosity, I’m sure.” Gabriel wasn’t so sure of that, but rousing the girl’s temper had an interesting effect on her. She trembled in an obvious attempt to keep back a scathing retort at his thinly veiled insult, her lithe body giving off a heat he felt to his marrow. As for the young man, he reacted with such ease it was apparent that he was used to the girl’s quick temper. It seemed they weren’t only a matched pair. They complemented each other as well. He rang the bell, and the housekeeper came directly, wearing her usual somber dress and that familiar air of competence. “Did you require something, my lord?” she asked. Mrs. Holmes had been in the family’s employ since before he was

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born and was the closest thing to a mother he’d ever had. He nodded to her. “Yes, Mrs. Holmes. See that one of the men retrieves Lady Millicent and Mr. Crowley’s things from their car. I’m afraid it’s stuck on the road near the end of the drive.” He faced his guests. “Mrs. Holmes will show you to your rooms,” he said, stressing the plural. Lady Millicent still smoldered, but her cousin nodded and stood. “Thank you, Lord Hawksfell,” he said. Gabriel watched as the housekeeper led the pair from the parlor. The room felt far emptier than it had before their arrival. He stared at the wet spots on the floor where they’d first stood, seeing once more their close proximity. He should wish them well and gone from the manor, but tonight he acknowledged that it had been refreshing to have guests, unexpected though they were. He didn’t know how long they would be stuck here with him, but to his astonishment he was looking forward to seeing them on the morrow. **** “Here you are, my lady,” the housekeeper said, waving her into a very nicely decorated guest room. Millicent spared a glance at Michael then stepped into the room. “Thank you, Mrs. Holmes.” “If you need anything, please ring. Hawksfell Manor’s staff is at your disposal during your stay, no matter how long its duration.” “Thank you,” she said again. “I’m certain we will be on our way shortly.” “As you say,” Mrs. Holmes allowed. “Mr. Crowley, if you will follow me? Your room is just opposite.” Michael gave Millicent a smile. “Good night, Millie.” “Good night.” Michael stared at her a moment longer then followed the efficient

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housekeeper to the room across the hall. He’d seemed to want to say more before taking his leave, but what? He’d held his own during their discourse with Lord Hawksfell, in any event. More than she had, actually. The man had baited her, for goodness sake! First, offering her brandy he seemed certain she’d refuse and then alluding to the impropriety of sharing a chamber with Michael! Millicent sat and removed her heeled boots, stiff now from misuse and mud. Her stockings were ruined, and it was with trepidation that she approached the glass standing in the corner. Oh, she looked like something dragged out of the lake at Crowley Park! Several smudges of mud streaked her cheeks and forehead, and her hair was a tangled mess. Her dress was dry from the ample fire in the parlor but was wrinkled beyond recovery. Sighing, she turned from the glass and surveyed the room. It was really quite lovely, with a gold-and-ivory coverlet on the wide four-poster bed and thick rose-colored carpet beneath her grateful toes. Electric sconces glowed softly against the floralpatterned walls, a fire burned brightly in the small hearth, and the comfort of the room wrapped itself around her. A glance at the clock set on the mantel showed her it was nearly eleven o’clock. Suddenly, the ordeal of the past few hours struck her. She recalled the impulsive flight from Crowley Park directly after tea, followed by a pleasant drive that swiftly turned treacherous. Finding themselves stranded and wrecked then having to throw themselves on the mercy of a stranger. But what a stranger! Lord Hawksfell had only grown more interesting with every passing moment they’d shared in the parlor. She turned as someone knocked at the door. Pulling it open, she found a liveried and very wet footman carrying her portmanteaux. After directing him to place the suitcases on the upholstered bench at the foot of the bed, she let out a breath. Fatigue dragged at her, that and a frustration she’d felt since making their host’s acquaintance. “Will that be all, my lady?” the man asked her.

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He was good-looking and deferential, ideal traits for a footman. He also looked a bit ragged around the edges. “Yes, thank you,” she answered. He bowed and left her, closing her door behind him. Grateful to see her things, she hurriedly opened the top suitcase. Everything seemed to have escaped getting truly soaked, yet it all felt damp. Rooting through the case, she found her nightclothes relatively dry. She withdrew a nightdress and shook it out. It would be fine once she donned it and sat in the chair nearest the fireplace. Another knock came at the door. “Come in,” she called, now used to the well-staffed household. A dark-haired maid stood there, her hands folded in front of her. “If you please, my lady. Mrs. Holmes asked me to see to you.” Millicent thought to send her away, but the notion of a bit of pampering was too tempting at this hour. “Thank you…” “Mary,” the maid provided. “Thank you, Mary. I daresay I wish to simply ready for bed and sleep for ages.” “Mrs. Holmes said that you had an accident,” the girl said, taking the nightdress from her to lay it out on the bed. “And in this weather.” “Just a run of bad luck, really,” Millicent said. The girl nodded and began to assist her out of her dress. When she was wearing her nightdress, the maid took her ruined dress in her hands. “I’ll have this right as rain for you, my lady.” “Are you sure? It is one of my favorites, but I daresay it’s been treated most ill this evening.” The maid waved a hand. “I’ve seen worse.” Millicent sat before the vanity and began to unpin her hair. The maid bustled about, emptying her portmanteaux. She found Millicent’s brush and combs and set them on the vanity. “I’ll see to this as well,” she said, bundling the pile of damp clothes in her arms. “I’ll do my best to have something readied for you in the morning.” “Thank you, Mary. You are a lady’s maid, then?”

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Mary shook her head. “No. I was, before I came to Hawksfell Manor.” “And not now?” Mary shrugged. “There are no ladies to serve here.” Millicent wondered at that. “How long have you been employed here, if I may ask?” “Just two months, my lady.” “If there are no ladies in residence, whom do you serve?” Mary blinked at her. “Why, the earl of course.” The maid bobbed a curtsey, and Millicent was alone at last. What a strange place the manor seemed to be. No ladies in residence, no mention of any family to the earl either. An ample and skilled staff was present, yet she felt an overwhelming sense of emptiness within these walls. “It is none of my concern,” she told herself, slipping beneath the fine linens and thick coverlet. The storm continued to rage outside, but within her guest chamber, she longed to succumb to the release of sleep from the tumultuous day. She wondered for a moment how Michael was adjusting, but knowing him as she did, she guessed he was dead to the world. Nothing ever seemed to trouble him for long. Lucky man. Whatever he’d wished to say would just have to wait until the morning.

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Chapter 3 Michael paced his fine guest room, his footsteps muffled on the thick blue carpet. The room was vastly comfortable and warm, yet his mood was as foul as the weather outside. It was clear that the earl found Millicent attractive. Hell, who wouldn’t? Even drenched and muddied, her beauty showed through. She’d also sparred with the man, earning a look of carnal interest Michael did not enjoy seeing on his face. When Millicent’s ire was up, she was beyond beautiful. Damn the earl, anyway. He couldn’t deny that Lord Hawksfell was handsome in a blatant, rough manner. He was commanding and compelling, which Michael suspected Millicent would find irresistible. He himself had felt those dark eyes on him as their host had obviously taken his measure. Heat had flared in the earl’s eyes, and for a moment he’d felt an answering spark tingle across his skin. The man was sex personified. Did the earl find Michael lacking? Did he think he could just take Millicent away from him? She was supposed to be his. True, she hadn’t precisely agreed to marry him. Yet she had brought him to pleasure just yesterday afternoon! God, the memory of the feel of her delicate hand on his shaft caused him to groan. He wore his dressing gown, the garment none the worse for wear from jostling about in a wet suitcase. The footman who had brought the bags to his room had served as valet and took any damp garments with him after he’d seen to Michael. Despite the late hour, the staff was efficient and ever solicitous. He’d heard a maid leave Millicent’s guest room just minutes earlier, and he longed to go to her. He shouldn’t, not with things so unsettled between them. Despite the fact

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that they seemed all but made for each other, there was something holding her back from committing to him. She had to marry. That was without question. And soon, before she turned twenty-five. He wanted her to marry him. When she’d suggested this trip to their aunt’s after their sensual encounter, he’d thought she was ready to at last capitulate. For weeks now, she’d kissed him eagerly. She’d received his kisses with apparent pleasure, didn’t she? He hadn’t dared what she had, of course. Ah, how he’d long to. There on the settee at Crowley Park, after she’d stroked him to bliss, he’d wanted to flip up her skirts and touch her as well. He wagered she’d be as soft as down, as warm as her lips. Her pussy would hold the same sweet scent that clung to her skin, as lush and tempting as the lilacs that grew in abundance around Crowley Park. He glared at the closed door. She was but a few steps away, nestled in a room as richly appointed as this one. For once he was tired of letting her dictate matters between them. He couldn’t afford it now. Not with the earl’s growing desire for her. Michael hadn’t shared with Millicent what he’d overheard in that inn during their last stop. What he’d learned of the Hawksfell family’s reputation. Rutting bastards, all of them. The latest earl was as lusty and demanding as his father before him, though this was apparently only rumor passed from servants who had worked at the manor. And had served his needs within its privileged walls. Apparently he didn’t need to come down from his estate to seek release with the women in the village. Millicent was within these walls now. Beneath this debauched nobleman’s roof, as it were. “I’ll be damned if he has her,” he vowed through clenched teeth. His door opened on silent hinges, and he stepped across the hall to Millicent’s door. He hesitated but a moment then opened it without knocking. The sight that met him was well worth this daring move. Millicent, soft and lovely on the wide bed, sitting up with shock

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rounding her beautiful eyes. “Michael!” she gasped. He closed the door and crossed to her. He was never more certain of his decision. He might not take her tonight, but he would show her he knew how to give pleasure at last. “I had to see you, Millie.” He took several steps to the bed and looked about. The room was much like the one given to him, though done in feminine colors. It was well suited to the fair lady tucked within. His belly clenched as desire struck him hard. “You should not be in here.” Her words said one thing, but the open speculation on her face said another. Her gaze ran over him, raking over his chest to linger on his groin. How could she do that? Rouse him with just a look? His cock was pounding now. He settled beside her on the bed, studying the girl he’d known for years. Wanting the woman she’d become. “Kiss me, Millie,” he rasped. Her full lips parted in surprise, but he didn’t miss the heat in her eyes. “Michael.” The way she said his name wasn’t an admonition. No, it was a plea. He brought his mouth to hers and kissed her as he hadn’t ever dared before. When her lips parted once more, he slipped his tongue inside and her fresh, sweet flavor flooded him. Her fingers grasped the lapels of his dressing gown, and she slipped the garment off his shoulders. Her hands clutched at him as she made the most arousing sounds in the back of her throat. “Ah, Millie,” he growled, bringing his lips to her throat. Her skin was silken smooth and warm from sleep. “How long I’ve wanted to kiss you like this.” She nodded, said something he didn’t quite catch, and pulled him down on top of her. “Kiss me everywhere, Michael.” He glanced down at her breasts, outlined in her wrinkled

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nightdress. Slowly, he cupped his hand over one of them, earning a purr of approval from her. Her nipple, pert and plump, pebbled against his palm. The ribbons that held her collar cinched were loose, so he pulled them free to reveal the prettiest breasts he’d ever imagined. Round and white, topped with rosy nipples that made his mouth water. Not wanting to waste another moment, he placed his mouth over one of them, closing his eyes in bliss. “Oh!” she gasped, arching sharply. He teethed the bead, flicked it with his tongue, as he grazed his hand past her slender waist to between her legs. Her pussy burned hot and wet through the thin nightdress, and he lifted his head to watch as he pulled the garment over her shapely legs to reveal the golden curls shielding her pussy. “Spread your legs, Millie,” he said softly. She did, and he flicked his gaze to her face. She watched him, licking her lips and trembling. “Touch me, there. On my…” “Pussy,” he finished for her. He brushed at the damp curls then delved one finger between the folds. “You’re as soft as I imagined.” “Michael, please,” she said through gritted teeth. He smiled at her then put another finger inside her. Her flesh pulled at him, and he stroked her. It was with some luck that he found the nub hidden in her curls. When he flicked her clit she let out a cry. “Does that feel good?” he asked. She nodded shakily, biting her lip. “So good!” He circled her clit then pinched it. Returning to her delectable nipples, he teased and tongued each in turn as he fingered her. “Michael, I’m going to…” “Come?” His breath came fast now. “Like you made me come?” “Y–yes!” With two fingers inside her, his thumb teasing her clit, he sucked harder at one breast. She broke then, letting out a sweet cry as she gave a violent shudder. He continued to stroke her, gently now as she settled back down against her pillows. His cock was throbbing, the

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brush of his dressing gown almost painful against its engorged head. Seeing Millicent replete now was worth his discomfort, though. He’d shown her that he could give her as much pleasure as she gave him. **** “Oh, Michael,” she said, coming back to herself at last. “That was amazing.” He flashed his familiar smile, bringing his hand to her cheek. “It’s what you made me feel, Millie. Back at Crowley Park.” She returned the expression. He really was beautiful, and more strongly built than she’d imagined. Sculpted muscles on his chest and arms, ridged belly leading to his groin. Oh, she hadn’t expected his manhood to be so…interesting. She hadn’t dared take more than a peek yesterday. “But what of tonight, Michael? I can see you need release, too.” He followed her gaze, no doubt seeing as she did that with his dressing gown pushed off his shoulders, his body was bared to her, including his cock. His cheeks flooded with color even as he grew larger. “Millie…” “Let me show you,” she said, coming to her knees. “I can ease you.” She placed a hand on his smooth chest, and he leaned back. She’d never seen his cock—any man’s cock, really—and she found it quite remarkable. Long and thick, its blunt head straining toward her as a bead of liquid appeared on the top. She’d caressed him, yes, but to have the opportunity to explore more fully was too good to pass up. With one finger she brushed the slit at the top of his cock. He hissed then leaned back on his elbows. “Millie…” he moaned, his body rigid. A few strokes over the head, spreading its liquid, made him just slippery enough. Her hand gripped his shaft, moving up and down as she’d blindly done at Crowley Park. He thrust against her hand,

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obviously close to his release. A notion popped into her mind then, a recollection of how delightful his mouth had felt on her breasts. Before she let another moment pass, she took his cock in her mouth. “Christ!” he shouted. “Shh,” she soothed, then bent once more to her task. He was salty and slick, and she nibbled tentatively at the head. He held himself taut now, his expression fierce when she chanced a peek at his face. “Your mouth,” he groaned. She smiled inwardly then sucked harder. He began to tremble, and then her mouth was filled with his taste. It was like his scent, which she’d caught now and again over the years. A bit spicy and very familiar. She sat back on her heels and beamed. “What do you think?” He took a few more gasping breaths then grinned. “I think we should get married right away.” That brought her up short. “What? Why? Because I pleasured you?” He blinked then shook his head. “And I pleasured you, but that’s not the point.” “What is, then?” He sat up slowly, and pulled his robe closed. “If I spend much more time alone with you, I’ll take your virginity. I would wish to wait until our wedding night, but now that I’ve touched your pussy? I don’t think I can wait that long.” Pique filled her. “You know full well that I wish to savor what little bit of freedom I have left. Three months of it, to be exact.” His brows drew together. “And marrying me will be a prison?” “No! I just…I don’t know what I want, Michael.” He turned away. “I thought you wanted me.” “I did. I do!” Her heart twisted as she thought about losing him, her good friend and familiar companion. “I am not certain that what we have can last into the future.”

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“Your future, you mean.” His words cut her. “I am a selfish creature, Michael,” she said, her voice clipped. “You’ve known this nearly all of our lives.” “I can give you everything with a marriage,” he grumbled. “Pity you don’t want me along with it.” He stood before she could make an argument, but what would she say? That she was afraid his passion wouldn’t be enough to sustain her? So she said nothing as he left her guest room. Surely she could mend this rift she’d caused. Surely his calm temperament and willing demeanor would allow her time to figure out what she wanted. She thought of the bothersome earl, no doubt secreted in the family wing of the manor. In her mind the scene she’d just encountered with Michael grew dark, the man beneath her touch turning into the earl himself. Would she have had the nerve to taste him, too? Her body shivered. After finding amazing release with Michael, she still felt curiously empty. And after their argument, her mind was as muddled as her body. What was it about the dark earl that drew her? She’d always been a creature of light, without a care save for this irksome edict that she marry by a certain age. She should just take what Michael offered and recognize it for the blessing it was. There was something here, however. Something about the earl and his home that drew her. The storm had washed her onto the shore of a strange place where her mind and heart were ill equipped to navigate. As astounding as it was to consider, she suddenly yearned to get utterly and completely lost.

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Chapter 4 Gabriel sat in the breakfast room, eyeing the spread of food on the sideboard. The redoubtable Mrs. Holmes had seen to everything, as he’d come to expect. Thus Hawksfell Manor would provide a hearty breakfast for the earl’s unexpected guests and then he could send them on their way. A crack of thunder told him the second part of that plan would not come to fruition this day. Peering out the bank of windows overlooking his gardens showed him a day nearly as dark as the night had been. There would be no departure today, even if his driver managed to repair their car. “Wonderful,” he grumbled, lifting his coffee cup to his lips. “My lord?” one of the footmen asked from the doorway. “Did you need something? I can fetch one of the maids.” “Nothing, William,” he said with a wave of his hand. “Any sign of our guests?” “No, but I believe Cabot and Mary are serving them.” Gabriel nodded. “Very good.” He ate without tasting the fine food his staff had prepared. The thought of the blonde girl under his roof, and her cousin of course, had given him strange dreams in the night. The two strangers were connected, that was obvious. He was devoted to the beauty. What her feelings were for the young man were less clear, however. Gabriel had caught her gaze on him often enough to believe her interests could be turned. Were the two Crowleys lovers? Maybe not, since he didn’t read any partiality on the lady’s part. How long would that condition persist, though? They were far from their home in Scarborough, and

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nowhere near their aunt’s. What was to stop them from indulging? Michael Crowley didn’t seem like a forward sort of young man, but with the temptation of the volatile Lady Millicent? He imagined there was nothing she couldn’t dare Michael to do. He envisioned the two of them together, beautiful and golden as they found their release. Would she cry out when her climax took her? Would he? Desire began to lick at him, that familiar need clenching in his belly. A maid brought in a fresh pot of coffee, and he watched her for a moment. This one was fair haired and small of stature. She was pretty, as all his staff was. He didn’t remember her name, but she was familiar, of course. Had he fucked her in the butler’s pantry recently? It was possible. He’d been known to indulge whenever and wherever he found the need. She turned a deferential glance in his direction, and he knew she was as ready to serve him as any other member of him household staff. He had but to unbutton his trousers and she could suck him until he came. He waited for the inevitable need to rise, for his cock to fill. “Is there anything else, my lord?” she asked. To his surprise he didn’t grow hard. Maybe yesterday’s tryst was enough to sustain him for a few days, but that had never been the case before. “Nothing, thank you,” he answered. She dropped a curtsey and left the breakfast room. He stood and poured hot coffee into his own cup, wondering at his strange reactions. The prospect of taking a willing maid did nothing to him, yet the thought of Lady Millicent Crowley made his mouth water. “Good morning, Lord Hawksfell,” he heard Michael Crowley say. He looked up at the young man. “Good morning.” He sat back down. “I trust you slept well?” “Yes, thank you.” Gabriel waved a hand toward the sideboard and sat. “Help yourself to breakfast.”

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He nodded and crossed to the sideboard. He looked far better this morning than he had last night, his clothes pressed and his hair combed back. His handsome face wore a troubled expression, however. Well, it was of no consequence to Gabriel, was it? Michael Crowley and his lovely cousin would be well and gone as soon as Gabriel could arrange it. “Good morning,” Lady Millicent sang as she entered the room. Gabriel turned to her. Her face was alight, and he felt her appeal like a blow to the chest. His staff had worked on her as well, for her dress was without wrinkle and her hair shining in a fetching style. In the bright morning light, and without mud to dull it, the mass glistened like liquid gold. “Good morning, Lady Millicent,” he returned when he could speak. She smiled at him, and the room seemed to tilt. She lost that expression when her eyes fell on her cousin, however. “Michael,” she said, the song gone from her voice. The young man turned, his blue eyes round. “Millie.” Millie? Gabriel rather liked the nickname even though it made her seem more like a child than a woman. Something passed between the cousins, their faces wearing matching blushes, and they each pulled their gazes from each other. Gabriel knew in the next instant. They’d been together, and under his roof. He was once more struck with the hot flash of jealousy from last night. “Eat, Lady Millicent,” he said. “You must be famished.” She gaped at his sharp tone and reddened further. “What are you saying, Lord Hawksfell?” He leveled a gaze at her. “Surely you are hungry after the night you passed.” “Now see here,” her cousin put in. “What are you implying?” “Implying?” Gabriel sipped his coffee deliberately then lowered the cup. “I merely referred to your sleep in an unfamiliar bed.” Michael narrowed his eyes. “What do you care about Millicent’s

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sleep?” Gabriel shrugged. “I am your host, or have you forgotten how you showed up uninvited on my doorstep, Mr. Crowley?” “I have not, but that doesn’t give you leave to…to…” “Never mind, Michael,” Millicent said. “Apparently Lord Hawksfell is baiting you.” “Me? Why?” Michael asked. She took up a plate and began to fill it. “He wishes to show his power here, though we cannot help but be aware of it.” Gabriel watched her as she glided back to the other side of the table. “My power?” He couldn’t help himself. He stood and walked around to stand very close to her. “Do tell me, what do you believe that to be?” She set her plate down and glared up at him. “You offer us shelter in a storm, my lord. Last night and today.” He smelled her then, lilacs and heat. His blood began to pound as he forced his attention to her words. “Shelter? And do you believe I would deprive either one of you of that comfort?” “I do not know you,” she said with a shrug. “What is stopping you for sending us on our way despite the weather?” Anger bit at him. “You think me a monster?” She arched a brow. “I do not know you,” she said again. “You may take perverse delight in giving comfort and then taking it away.” “Millie,” he heard Michael say in a warning tone. She placed her hands on her slender hips, clearly not heeding her cousin. “You opened your home last evening, but surely you must want us well and gone. Your servants took care of us, but you must wish they would serve only you, isn’t that right?” Gabriel pulled back. Something niggled at the back of his mind. Did she know about the Hawks? About him? “State your meaning, miss,” he said, his voice low. She bristled, crackling with ire. “I am Lady Millicent Crowley.

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Even your stature doesn’t give you leave to address me so.” “A lady?” He scoffed. “After what you and your cousin did last evening, you expect me to believe you a lady?” She gasped and raised her hand to slap him but he was quicker. He grabbed her delicate wrist and pulled her toward him. “Did I get too close to the truth, my lady?” he asked, sneering the title at her. Her face was very close to his, her lips parted as she took in shallow breaths. His mouth watered for a taste of her, and he indulged himself. He caught her cry of indignation as he crushed his mouth to hers. Driving his tongue into her mouth, he took the kiss he’d craved since last night. Her mouth was exquisite, soft and warm and delicious. She responded, he realized with growing hunger. Her tongue touched his as her free hand clutched at the front of his jacket. The next moment he was pulled from her to face an angry Michael Crowley. “You have no cause to use her in that manner!” Gabriel dropped his hand from Millicent and stepped back from the two of them. He licked his lips, savoring her taste. Millicent now held her fingers to her lips, a dazed expression in her big blue eyes. Did she still taste him, too? “Are you claiming her yourself?” he asked Michael. The young man blinked then scowled at him. “Lady Millicent is not one of your maids, Lord Hawksfell.” Gabriel gave a slow nod. “Ah, there it is. My family’s lauded reputation has found its way to you. Didn’t take very long, did it?” “Reputation?” Millicent asked. “What reputation?” He threw a glance at Millicent then faced her cousin again. “You didn’t tell her, Mr. Crowley? The tales you undoubtedly heard either in the village or from a member of my staff?” Michael looked away. “None of your staff spoke ill of you.” Gabriel nodded. “That is something, then. The Hawksfell fortune

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buys more than good work. I’m happy to hear it.” “Michael, what is he talking about?” Millicent asked. Michael stood like a statue then shook his head. “Keep your hands from her, Lord Hawksfell.” Gabriel could still feel the memory of her touch on his chest. “And what of hers?” he asked. “She won’t touch you, either.” “I won’t?” the lady asked. Michael faced her. “You will? God, Millie. I don’t know what you want!” She squared her shoulders, fixing the same baleful expression on her cousin she’d favored Gabriel with a few moments ago. “What I want is not your concern.” Michael snorted. “That’s not what you said last night.” She slapped him across the face, so hard that Gabriel almost felt it. “I cannot stand the sight of either one of you.” She took in a shuddering breath and faced Gabriel. “Please let me know when our car is fixed. I wish to be far from Hawksfell Manor by nightfall.” With that, she sailed out of the breakfast room. In her wake she left a void. That and her lilac scent. Gabriel looked at Michael and saw the angry red mark on his cheek. “I’m glad I stopped her when I did.” Michael sputtered something, then sank into the nearest chair. “I shouldn’t have said that to her.” Something was going on between the young man and Millicent. That was clear. Gabriel realized he was of no mind to bait him further, however. “William,” Gabriel said to the footman, “please fetch a cold, wet cloth for Mr. Crowley.” The footman nodded and disappeared to do as he was asked. Gabriel stood for a moment then sat in the chair next to Michael. “I take it you were lovers last night.”

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His fair brows drew together. “I won’t speak of her with you.” Gabriel shrugged. “You two aren’t my concern. She has the right of it there.” William returned with the cloth and Michael held it to his cheek. “I want to marry her.” Gabriel considered the wording of that statement. “And what does the lady want?” Michael lowered the cloth and faced him, his eyes clouded. “I have no idea.”

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Chapter 5 Millicent paced in what was apparently the library, absently noting the towering shelves of books around her. The carpet was plush in here, too, blast it, and she couldn’t muster up a good stomping footfall. Instead she muttered curses she’d never dare speak in front of her family. Michael’s words rankled. How dare he? She shook her head as she thought of the earl. How dare either one of them? Her lips still tingled from Lord Hawksfell’s incredible kiss. That she couldn’t deny. He’d pulled her so close, his hard chest pressed against her breasts, that she’d lost her breath. His mouth was so hard yet pliant, his taste so different from Michael’s. She’d kissed him back, too. Plunged her tongue into his delectable mouth and tasted him before good sense, and her cousin’s interference, separated them. “Insufferable men!” she grumbled. She plopped down on an overstuffed settee and glared at the fire crackling merrily behind the grate. No doubt another of the earl’s ever-diligent staff had been about. She crossed her arms and slumped against the cushions. Wind and rain continued to pound against the tall windows, which showed her little beyond the deluge. There was no way they would be able to leave today. Michael’s car was surely not fixed, in any event. In reality her family wouldn’t be expecting her, for they thought she and Michael were safely tucked away at their aunt’s. That woman would have no notion that she should be expecting them nor that they hadn’t arrived, either. In truth, the earl could dispose of the both of them out here on the moors and no one would be any the wiser for weeks.

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That melodramatic thought caused a smile to tease her lips. He was no monster, despite what she’d said to him. He was just a wealthy man used to being left to his own devices yet forced to endure the company of two strangers for an indeterminate length of time. She’d been out of line as well, but she would never admit that to either one of them. Let them believe her angry beyond measure. She would keep her feelings about her own shameful behavior to herself, thank you very much. “Did you need something, my lady?” a maid asked. It wasn’t the one who saw to her needs last night and this morning, but a pretty blonde girl. She wore an immaculate uniform and an eager expression. “Nothing, thank you,” Millicent answered. The girl curtseyed and turned to go. “Wait,” Millicent rushed out. “My lady?” the maid asked with brows raised. Millicent thought about the reputation Michael spoke of when the earl got so angry. Never one to let her curiosity go unsatisfied, she smiled and gestured the girl closer. “How long have you been employed here at Hawksfell Manor?” “Three months next week.” Another relatively new maid in the household. Interesting. “Are you happy here?” “My lady?” “Are you satisfied?” A blush covered the girl’s cheeks, gone when she dropped her gaze to the carpet. “Yes,” she said in a low voice. “When the work requires it.” Millicent puzzled over the maid’s reaction. “What are you saying?” The girl looked toward the hall then leaned closer. “The work is most satisfying, my lady. We are paid handsomely as well. The earl is a demanding employer, but he is also—”

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“Posy!” one of the footman said from the doorway. The maid gasped, and then she and Millicent both turned their attention to him. He was young and handsome, with dark hair and soulful eyes. He wore a stern expression on his boyish face then smoothed his countenance in Millicent’s direction. “William! I wasn’t—” “Quiet, Posy,” the footman said. He turned to Millicent. “Was there something you needed, my lady?” Millicent blinked then smiled winningly. “No, thank you. I was merely asking…Posy here about her work at the manor.” “But why?” he asked, his brow furrowed. Millicent sensed something in his tone beyond mere curiosity. The man almost seemed suspicious of her. “Forgive me,” she said with a laugh. “I am simply trying to occupy myself on this dreary morning.” She faced the maid, whose blush was now red hot. “Thank you, Posy. I’m afraid I’ve kept you from your duties.” “N–not at all, my lady,” the maid said before rushing from the room. Millicent turned to the footman now. “Please don’t be harsh on her, William. There is blessed little to occupy myself with on this rainy day.” “She should know better than to speak of—” His lips thinned, and he shook his head. “Do call upon me if you need anything, my lady.” He seemed to lose a bit of his prickliness, and she inclined her head to him. He bowed and stepped out of the room. She sat there in the quiet room, her pique at Michael and the earl momentarily forgotten as she considered the footman’s reaction to the maid’s comments. “How strange,” she murmured. At least it was something to occupy her mind, even as she had no notion as to what the maid was about to say or why the footman was so adamant that she not say it.

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“What are you hiding, Lord Hawksfell?” she asked softly. There was no answer save for the lash of rain against the glass. **** “Will this blasted rain ever let up?” Gabriel growled to himself. He’d spent the day shut in his study, his muscles yearning for a hard ride and his lips craving another taste of the lovely Lady Millicent. Poor Michael was at sixes and sevens over the girl, and at the moment Gabriel put himself not far from that condition. Now he waited for his guests to join him in the parlor to await the dinner bell. “Lord Hawksfell?” Mrs. Holmes called from the doorway. “Yes, Mrs. Holmes?” “I thought you would like to know that your guests should be down momentarily.” “And why would I like to know that?” he asked with a tilt of his head. Mrs. Holmes smiled. “Two guests are quite unusual for the manor, my lord,” she said. “Especially when one of them is as lovely as Lady Millicent.” Gabriel felt his lips twitch. “Is she lovely? I hadn’t noticed.” Mrs. Holmes stepped closer. “I never knew you for a deceitful child.” He barked out a laugh. “All right, the lady is quite beautiful. Is that what you want me to say?” “I thought that perhaps if the right woman were to come along, then the Hawk…” She added nothing more to that statement. “The Hawk Curse?” he finished for her. “What, the right woman could end it? And where, precisely, would that leave me?” She looked at him with affection. “Happy.” He shook his head. “I am not meant to be happy, Mrs. Holmes. The best I can hope for is to be content.” Her eyes grew watery, and then she straightened her shoulders and

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donned her usual air of efficiency. “As you say. Mr. Crowley and Lady Millicent will join you soon.” She left, but not quickly enough for him to miss the clicking of her tongue as she turned away. He considered what she said, and her meaning was crystal clear. No woman had ever made a Hawk happy, outside of the release a spirited bout of fucking brought. “Preposterous.” He thought of the feel of Millicent in his arms, of the taste of her on his tongue. What he’d felt when he’d held her seemed to go beyond the sexual, though he’d been painfully hard when they’d separated. If he could truly find someone to satisfy him, cock and soul, would he take the risk of hurting her? Fidelity was not in a Hawk’s makeup. His father and many cousins proved that fact. Who was he to expect he could have a happy life or a blissful future? He’d given up any sort of hope for a real future years ago, when his raging Hawk lusts first took hold of him. He wouldn’t be the one to bring pain to anyone who would dare to love him. That would make him as bad as his father. **** Michael stood outside Millicent’s door as he had last night, his knuckles poised over the panel. They hadn’t spoken since their horrid exchange in the breakfast room, and he hoped rather than expected that her mood would be improved. Taking a breath, he rapped on the door. “Millicent, are you ready?” “Just a moment,” he heard her answer. He stepped back, nervously running his hands over his clothes. The footman had worked his magic as valet once again, and he was turned out as well as could be expected. He didn’t doubt that Millicent would be beyond lovely. There was no way the earl would ignore her this evening. Not after the kiss he took this morning.

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He’d been solicitous toward Michael after she’d left them both, though. It was obvious his mind had still been on Millicent, yet he’d taken care with him. Michael hadn’t ever received such condescension from his male relatives, few as they were. They were interested solely in the Crowley fortune and holdings, and far older. No, Millicent was his closest and dearest, yet Michael couldn’t answer the earl’s question about what she wanted. It seemed he never knew what was in that woman’s head. The door was pulled open, and a maid stood there. “Good evening, Mr. Crowley,” she said with a curtsey. “Lady Millicent will be out directly.” The maid closed the door behind her and passed him as she went on to some other duty, leaving Michael alone in the hallway again. “Come on, Millie,” he grumbled. “I heard that,” Millicent said from just on the other side of the door. Michael’s cheeks heated, but he couldn’t help but smile as she opened the door to face him. She wore a lacy dress done in deep blue, nearly the color of her eyes. Only a few strands of beads adorned her glorious hair, done in an upswept style with curls left to frame her face. “You look lovely,” he said. “Are you ready for dinner?” “With the odious earl?” she asked, pulling on her gloves. “Yes, of course.” Michael nodded and waved her ahead of him as she pulled the door shut behind her. “Odious, is he?” She stilled, opening her mouth to deliver what he expected was a caustic set down. To his dismay she shook her head. “I don’t want to argue with you, Michael.” Her words made his heart lift a bit. “Nor I with you.” She nodded. “Then let us go down to the parlor and get this evening over with.” They made their way down the grand staircase and found

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themselves in the parlor. Though not by any design, they stood in the exact same spots they’d stood dripping wet last night. The earl was near the fireplace, staring into the flames. He wore a look of melancholy on his face before he turned to face them. The mask of genial host soon slipped into place. “Good evening,” he said. Michael greeted him, but Millicent merely gave a nod. Millicent might not want to argue with him, but she appeared to welcome animosity from Lord Hawksfell. A smile lifted one corner of the earl’s mouth, and Michael wondered at that. “I suppose we should thank you for your continued hospitality, Lord Hawksfell,” she said. “Millie,” Michael said softly. “Thank me or don’t,” the earl said with a shrug. “I know my duty, unexpected though it is.” Millicent bristled and Michael braced himself for whatever would come from the girl’s mouth. At that moment a maid stepped into the parlor to announce dinner. “Well, that is it then,” Millicent said. “I shall see you gentlemen in the dining room.” She followed the maid out of the parlor, and Michael released the breath he had been holding. “She is prickly this evening,” Lord Hawksfell said. “More so than I’ve ever seen her.” The earl stepped closer. “You are set on your course, then?” “To marry her? God, yes.” He felt a bit embarrassed to admit this to the earl, but there was something to be said about unburdening yourself to someone wholly unconnected to you or your family. He couldn’t shake the closeness he’d felt toward him that morning, either. “She must wed and soon.” “Soon?” The earl’s eyes rounded. “Never say she’s expecting!” “No! She must marry before her twenty-fifth birthday or lose all but a small portion of her inheritance, and she is but three months

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from that milestone.” “What is holding her back then? You’re an affable gentleman and clearly smitten with her.” Michael thought to deny his observation then shrugged. “I don’t know what she wants. Yes, she returns my kisses. But she returned yours as well.” “Listen, Michael.” He started then smiled. “May I call you Michael?” It felt right, his name on the earl’s lips. “Yes.” “Michael, it seems to me that the girl doesn’t know what she wants. Now I have absolutely no experience with courtship, believe me, but you should make certain of her feelings before you commit to anything.” “She is impossible to read.” “It seems to me the lady prefers the direct approach.” He appeared thoughtful for a moment. “Perhaps if I—” “Dinner is waiting, my lord,” the maid said, worry creasing her brow. “Yes, yes,” Lord Hawksfell said with a wave of his hand. The girl left again, and he grinned. “We should go to the dining room before Mrs. Holmes herself comes and drags us in there.” Michael nodded. “Mend your fences with Lady Millicent,” the earl said. “It’ll be a few more days before your automobile is fixed, in any event. Use that time to ascertain the depth of feelings. On both sides.” What he said made sense, in a fashion. Michael could get back to that closeness with Millicent again. Perhaps he could even share passion like they had last night. Had that only been last night? God, things were in a muddle. “Thank you for letting me vent my spleen, Lord Hawksfell.” “Please, call me Gabriel.” It was Michael’s turn to smile. Once more he felt a pull toward the earl. “Gabriel. Despite what Millicent said, you have been a very

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good host.” Gabriel put a hand on Michael’s shoulder. “Then Mrs. Holmes will have no need to berate me upon your eventual departure.” They left the parlor, bound for the dining room. He had no idea how he would find Millicent within, calm or fiery. With Gabriel for company, he realized he was almost looking forward to sparks. Say what you would about Millicent, the girl was never boring.

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Chapter 6 Dinner had been an absolute trial, in Millicent’s opinion. Yes, the food was divine and the service impeccable. The company was a different story entirely. Both men had seemed quite chummy when they’d finally joined her in the dining room. As she’d attempted to conduct a civil conversation with either one or the other, they’d shared looks of some mysterious import between them. It would not do. She let out a sigh and slumped in the chair set at the vanity. “My lady?” the maid given to her care asked. “Is something wrong?” “Oh, it’s nothing,” Millicent rushed out. Mary nodded and continued to brush Millicent’s hair. When that was done and Millicent was in her nightgown and wrapper, she saw to her clothes. “Will there be anything else tonight?” she asked. Millicent wanted to question her as she had the little parlor maid but was loath to cause the maid any difficulty. The memory of the censure that footman had shown earlier was fresh in her mind. “No, nothing. Thank you, Mary.” The girl bobbed a curtsey and left her to her thoughts. What was the famous, or infamous, Hawk reputation? Surely Michael knew something of it. Lord Hawksfell and he had probably discussed it in fine detail after her departure. Over brandy and cigars, no doubt. “Men,” she grumbled. Oh, but the both of them had been beyond delectable tonight. Michael was as shiny as a new guinea and as bright as the sun. The

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earl, however, was dark and mysterious as a flicker of moonlight. True, the rainy day had deprived her of both sun and moon today. And her own prickly mood had precluded her from gazing her fill at the two of them after dinner. She turned down the lamp beside the bed and slid beneath the counterpane. Of course her mind turned to what she’d shared with Michael on this very bed last night. His kisses had been stunning, his mouth on her breast delicious. When he’d stroked her to pleasure she’d been shocked at the intensity of it. She shocked herself as well, truth be told. She’d never imagined tasting his cock in that manner. He seemed to derive incredible pleasure from her ministrations. Perhaps that explained his odd behavior today. Her orgasm had left her befuddled for a time. Perhaps that effect was longer lasting in the male of the species. On the heel of those recollections came the memory of her astounding kiss with the earl this morning. Lord, he was forceful. Her body began to tingle in all her secret places. What would he dare if he was in her chamber tonight? Her pussy flooded with juices as she swelled at the thought. He had such large hands, such long, graceful fingers. The thought of his hard mouth sucking at her breast, his strong fingers stroking her… It was beyond the pale to consider such with him, yet she couldn’t seem to set it from her mind. Flashes came to her, images of the earl’s big body pressing her into the bed as he ground against her center. Michael came into her mind then, his mouth fastened to her breasts as the earl moved his mouth over her belly toward the very spot that now begged for satisfaction. A rap came at the door, and she bolted upright in her bed. Perspiration dotted her brow, and her heart still pounded from her wild imaginings. Would Michael dare to come to her tonight? After barely exchanging two words with her though dinner? Desire or no, she wouldn’t let herself give in to him tonight. Climbing out of the bed on shaking legs, she donned her wrapper

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and stepped soundlessly to the door. “Yes?” she asked softly. “I need to speak with you, Lady Millicent,” The earl’s voice came from the other side of the door. She gasped, holding a hand over her mouth. Brushing her hair back over her shoulders, she reached for the knob and opened the door. “Lord Hawksfell, it’s late.” He acknowledged that fact with a quick nod. He filled the doorframe, broad and strong. He still wore his dinner clothes, minus his jacket. She could see only part of his face in the light from the sconces in the hall, yet what she saw caused her heart to double its rate. His features were so intent on her, his mouth almost cruel. “I need to speak with you,” he said again. She glanced across the hall at Michael’s door then waved him into the room. Closing the door, she clutched at the crystal knob before letting go and turning to face him. “What is this about, Lord Hawksfell?” He grabbed her to him and pressed his cruel and beautiful mouth to hers. It was like this morning but with more hunger than pique. She responded, urged by his taste and the recollection of all she’d been considering in her lonely bed. His tongue stroked hers as his hands ran over her. Every nerve began to sing as her pulse raced. He brought his lips to her throat, the bristled line of his jaw gently abrading her skin. “This isn’t what I came here for,” he rasped. She clutched at his shoulders, unable to release him. “What, then?” she managed to ask. He lifted his head and stared at her, his eyes so dark in the lowered lamplight. “I wanted to speak with you.” She reached up and touched his face, feeling the rigid muscles beneath her fingers. Unable to resist, she traced his lips. “Then speak.” He sucked in a breath then took her hand and kissed her palm. It was a sweet gesture and precisely what she wasn’t expecting from

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him. “Come.” He sat on the edge of the bed, tugging her hand to bring her down to sit beside him. “I thought to speak to you about your cousin, but I can’t for the life of me remember why.” There was a touch of humor in his tone and the hint of a smile on his lips. “What of Michael?” she had to know. He shrugged his broad shoulders and leaned close to her. “He’s in love with you.” He brushed his lips against hers and sighed. “He wants to marry you.” She kissed him back, taking little nibbles of his delectable mouth. “I know.” “Yet you make him wait.” He pushed her wrapper off her shoulders and drew his tongue over the hollow of her throat. “Why is that?” She could barely catch a thought as he turned and pressed her down on the bed. “I…I don’t know.” He straightened and removed his tie. “What is it you want?” he asked, unbuttoning his shirt. Her mouth went dry as she stared at his chest. Broad and strong, swirled with hair as dark as that on his head. His belly was deeply ridged, and she wondered what his cock looked like. She licked her lips. “What do I want?” she wondered aloud. “Millicent,” he said in a low voice. She raised her eyes to his and saw the carnal glint there. Once more she was seized with the images from her heated mind. “I want you…” “Gabriel,” he said with a crooked smile. “Call me Gabriel.” She breathed in his spicy scent and slowly let it out. “I want you, Gabriel.” ****

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Gabriel felt lust pound through him, that familiar need rising to consume him. It felt different, however. A sharper, sweeter craving than he’d ever experienced. Millicent was clear in her desires, but surely she couldn’t mean to let him take her. He wouldn’t leave either of them less than satisfied, however. Her lilac scent was heavy in the room, the slight salt of her perspiration and arousal adding to the mix. He had to touch her. To taste her. Then he would tell her to marry Michael. And after they left Hawksfell Manor he would never give either one of them a thought again. “Gabriel,” she said again, her voice a caress. He made little work of her filmy nightgown and soon she was bared to him. She had skin like peaches and cream, and he watched the flutter of her pulse at the base of her delicate throat. Her arms were over her head now, her graceful hands curved palms up on the pillow. But her breasts…Lovely alabaster skin with deep rose nipples. He couldn’t resist a moment longer. “Ah, Millicent,” he breathed, burying his face between her breasts. Her scent was stronger there, and he licked his way from one nipple to the other. Settling for one at last, he suckled her and reveled in her response. She clutched at him, her fingers pulling at his hair as she writhed beneath him. “Touch me!” she commanded. He stroked his hands over her flat belly to her golden curls. God, she was wet. “Spread your legs,” he said. She did so, and he glanced at her face. Her blue eyes were nearly violet, they were so dark. He suddenly wished for more light in the chamber. Next time he would take her in the sunlight. He stilled. Next time? Her pussy was so slick, her flesh so hot. He set aside any other

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thought but possessing her. Shifting on the bed, he buried his face in her cunt. “Oh!” she cried. “You’re so sweet,” he murmured. He used the edge of his tongue to tease her clit, and she whimpered in delight. Driving his tongue into her sweetness, he licked and sucked until she shattered. Her breath was still coming fast as she sobbed her release. He couldn’t wait another moment. Tearing his trousers open, he freed his throbbing cock. He’d never been so aroused, not even in the early years of his manhood. He felt every kick of her pulse in his cock, every breath she took in his own lungs. This was no ordinary fuck. This was Millicent, his contrary angel. “I’m sorry,” he said as he settled between her quivering thighs. “I’ll try to be gentle, but I cannot withstand another moment outside of you.” “Take me, Gabriel,” he heard her whisper. It was all the permission he needed. He pushed into her, and she was so very tight yet slick with juices. He breached her maidenhead and was soon as deep as he could go. Holding himself still for several moments proved to take all of his strength. “Please,” she said, stroking her hands over his back. He gave a quick nod and began to move. It was heaven, being inside of her. This was no servant beholden to him. This was no wench or stableboy paid for a quick release. No other coupling touched him as this did, no other lover fit him so perfectly. His arms shook as he held himself above her, their bodies slick with sweat. They moved together, harder and faster, until he felt his climax start. He couldn’t withdraw. He had to join with her in the most intimate way and would stop at nothing to make her his. That thought, that compulsion to possess, was so foreign yet he couldn’t deny it. He wanted everything Millicent had to give. He looked down into her exquisite face and nearly spilled his seed.

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“Come for me again, love,” he bit out. She opened those amazing eyes and nodded. Arching, she came around him, and he finally let go. Great waves of pleasure crashed over him as he came inside of her. Taking in gulps of air, he collapsed upon her. “Millicent,” he said with reverence. She shifted and settled against his side, making sounds of contentment as she stroked his hair. He had never experienced sex like this, a true connection with nothing between him and his lover but a mutual need for satisfaction. For connection. Tonight he’d take a few blessed moments and savor the feeling of being with someone who held a bit of himself afterward. She’d been a virgin. He couldn’t deny that. He’d come inside of her. He’d worry about it tomorrow. That and how the devil he was going to tell Michael.

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Chapter 7 Millicent woke to an empty bed. Her body was sore in the most intriguing way, her breasts tender and her center throbbing with remembered pleasure. Lord Hawksfell, Gabriel, had been a thorough lover. His mouth had been magic on her breasts, but to think of his putting it on her pussy? She’d never imagined such a thing. He’d been surprisingly tender, too. When he took her, his cock so deep inside her, he’d taken care. For all his intensity she’d seen the restraint he’d exercised in every taut muscle. Yet he’d commanded every response, his words as compelling as his touch. She slowly sat up, giving a lusty yawn. To her surprise the sun shone through a slit in the draperies. Had the storm passed at last? Perhaps their stay would end today. That thought soured her mood a bit. She felt decidedly sticky and thought a bath would be heavenly. Rising, she went to the bell pull and rang. A glance in the mirror atop the vanity showed a wanton girl, flush from passion and exhausted from her lover’s attentions. Millicent knew the truth, however. Gabriel might have taken her virginity, but it was Michael who was in her mind this morning. What would his reaction be? Pistols at dawn? He was just romantic enough to think that would win her. She frowned at herself. As if she were the woman to elicit such a gesture. She felt like no prize today. It was inevitable that he learn of this, however. He was so set on marrying her. If she capitulated he would know on their wedding night that she’d been with another. Should she marry him? Gabriel’s affectionate words and caresses aside, she suspected she was nothing more than a warm body to him. Had she thought matters through, she

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would have sent him from her room. In truth, she’d wanted him. She gave a shiver. She wanted him still. But what of Michael? A knock came at the door, happily distracting her from her riotous thoughts. “Come in,” she called. Mary bustled into the room, her face alight. “You rang, my lady?” “Yes, Mary. I would so love a bath this morning.” The girl nodded. “I shall have it drawn directly, my lady.” Millicent thanked her and sat at the vanity. Her virtue was gone, taken by a man who would forget her once she left this place. Any future she’d considered with Michael was surely torn as irreparably as her maidenhead. After her bath, a soothing pleasure, she readied for whatever the day would bring. Mary was contentedly quiet, though her eyes strayed to the rumpled bed more than once. Did she know what happened here last night? Servants seemed to know everything that went on in the houses where they served. The ones at Crowley Park certainly knew all of her secrets. Though the maid had only been here for two months, she must know all that went on before her service. “Has Lord Hawksfell ever had a mistress here?” she asked. “A lady of the manor?” Mary stilled, and then she shook her head. “Not to my knowledge, my lady.” “No countess?” “No, not him nor his father before him.” Millicent turned from the mirror to face her. “No particular lady friends visiting the country?” “Lord Hawksfell never has visitors of any kind, my lady,” she said as if the notion were preposterous. “Until you and Mr. Crowley, that is.” “And we were completely unexpected,” Millicent said with a smile. Mary returned the expression. “I think the earl is pleased

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nonetheless.” Millicent thought of the satisfaction stamped on his features after he’d loved her. “Yes, I imagine so.” Mary dropped her hands from Millicent’s finished coiffure and turned to the ruined bed. “I’ll see your room set to rights, my lady.” Millicent felt her cheeks heat. “Thank you.” The maid took up her clothes and things, and Millicent left her to her work. When she went down into the sunny breakfast room, she found it empty. Perhaps she’d taken too long in her bath. “At least I won’t have to face both of them this morning,” she said as she served herself. “My lady?” the footman said in question. “Nothing, William. I take it the earl and Mr. Crowley have already eaten?” “Yes.” William motioned for a maid, who filled her teacup. “The gentlemen have gone shooting.” Alarm filled her. Surely Gabriel wouldn’t boast of his conquest to Michael this morning. Not when he held a loaded rifle. Michael was a crack shot, after all. She schooled her expression and smiled at William. “Thank you, William. I suppose I shall find some way to occupy myself.” She glanced out the windows, seeing the bright gardens for the first time. “Perhaps a walk after breakfast.” “Very good, my lady.” With that, she was left in solitude. Her eyes strayed to the woods beyond the formal gardens and sloping lawns. Were they talking about her right now? Was Gabriel telling Michael how she’d begged him to take her? Was Michael vowing to avenge her dubious honor? She shivered as she considered that last question. “Far too maudlin a thought on such a pretty day,” she said. She only hoped both gentlemen kept their own counsel today. She wouldn’t want to tell her family that she not only shamed them but destroyed a favored son.

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**** “Are you saying you took her?” Gabriel winced at Michael’s question. “Yes.” Michael’s face grew hot, his hands shaking, then he slumped against the nearest tree. “I should have known it would come to this.” “I didn’t force her, Michael,” Gabriel said, his tone surprisingly gentle. “I know I shouldn’t have gone to her room, but I had the noblest of intentions.” Michael laughed without humor. “I’ll just bet you did.” Gabriel set his rifle down beside Michael’s and faced him. “I went to talk to her about you.” Michael raised his eyes to him. The woods were thick around them, the shade dappled over his striking features. “Never say that.” “I did.” Gabriel appeared earnest, and a bit embarrassed. “What about me?” Michael asked. Gabriel blew out a breath. “I thought to get her feelings clear about your marriage proposal.” He turned away, his body held stiff. “I’m sorry to say that particular line of questioning didn’t get very far.” Coldness settled in his belly. “Because she said she doesn’t love me.” Gabriel turned to him. “She didn’t say that. She told me she doesn’t know why she makes you wait.” Michael dragged his fingers through his hair, letting out a grunt of frustration. “Our family wants us to wed. It seems my only worth to the Crowleys is keeping her fortune in the family.” “Your only worth?” The truth he’d known forever sat like a hard stone in his belly. “I’m a second son, with little but my Crowley good looks to

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recommend me.” “Yet they are pushing the two of you together. What are Millicent’s feelings on the matter?” “I don’t know what that woman wants!” His words struck him and he let out a harsh laugh. “Well, that’s not entirely true. She wants you.” Gabriel lowered his gaze. “I have never felt what I did last night. I thought to stop but…God, she was amazing.” Michael closed his eyes as he pictured Millicent as Gabriel must have found her. He’d seen her naked, had touched and tasted but a bit of her delectable body, but he’d stopped at taking her maidenhead. Now Gabriel claimed her, at least physically. “Tell me,” he urged softly. “What?” Gabriel asked. “Tell me what you did with her.” “Michael, you don’t really want to know.” He heard the hesitation in Gabriel’s voice. “Do you?” Michael opened his eyes and gazed at his host. “I’ve touched her. I’ve brought her to climax. She is amazing in her release.” A smile flashed across Gabriel’s face, one he quickly dispelled. “I know.” “She touched me,” Michael said. “She put her lovely mouth on me.” “She sucked your cock?” Gabriel flushed. “I…I hadn’t thought she would…” “Millicent is unlike any girl I’ve ever met, in and out of Yorkshire. She is who I want to spend my life with and now we have an obstacle between us.” “You speak of me, I presume?” Gabriel snorted. “If you had no obstacle before, I couldn’t have fucked her last night.” Michael began to make an argument then nodded. “I know.” He wanted to know all of it, though. Something about his Millicent taking all of this big man in front of him was intriguing to say the least.

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Gabriel was large, all over no doubt. Again, he felt that tingle of attraction he’d never felt toward another man. “Tell me.” Gabriel folded his arms and leaned against the tree at his back. “I went to talk to her about you.” “Not that,” Michael said with a wave of his hand. “Tell me what you did to her. What she did to you.” Now Gabriel couldn’t seem to keep the grin from his face. “What she did to me? She made me forget what small scrap of honor I have.” Michael closed his eyes again as Gabriel began to describe what happened in Millicent’s bed. He’d kissed and sucked her luscious breasts, he’d stroked her hot, wet pussy. She’d run her hands over his chest, his back. She’d begged him to touch her, and he’d buried his face in her cunt. “She was so sweet I could have eaten her for hours,” he said, his voice thick. “She came so hard against my tongue, Michael. I held her smooth thighs wide open and tongue fucked her over and over again.” Michael felt his cock throb at the image the other man evoked. He was painfully hard, so needy he turned away and cupped himself. “Go on,” he rasped. “She opened for me. She spread her legs wide and took all of me.” Gabriel drew in a labored breath. “I was in so deep. She held me so tight, so right. I fucked her hard, I’m not sorry to say. And she rose to every thrust.” Michael swallowed thickly as he processed what Gabriel said. Unable to keep from touching himself, he clutched at his cock through his trousers. The thought of Millie’s pussy wrapped around his shaft, the thought of fucking her so hard she came with a scream, had him aching for release. “Touch yourself, Michael,” he heard Gabriel say from behind him. He hadn’t even heard him approach, and now he pressed close to his back. “We’re alone here. Ease your aching cock before you explode.” Michael opened his trousers and freed himself with a groan. He’d

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pleasured himself before, but that was a long time ago. He clasped a hand over himself and stroked, letting out a low moan. “You haven’t taken Millicent,” Gabriel said in his ear. “Are you a virgin?” “No,” Michael bit out. “There was this maid, when I was sixteen.” Gabriel chuckled in his ear. “Ah, a maid. I’ve fucked a maid. Just the other night, as a matter of fact.” Michael wondered at that, but soon Gabriel’s actions sent any questions out of his mind. He cupped his ass in his strong hands, kneading as Michael continued to stroke himself. “Gabriel…” “Just feel, Michael. Let go.” One of Gabriel’s hands now covered his own, moving faster and with a purpose as his other hand teased his ass. One finger dipped into his hole, just for a moment, and his cock surged. Michael had never felt anything like it, and when Gabriel brushed his lips over the back of his neck, he felt his balls tighten. The next moment he came hard spurts of cream into the grass at his feet. They both still held his cock, Gabriel’s finger was in his ass, and Michael felt the sweet ache of release.

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Chapter 8 Michael pulled away from Gabriel and righted his clothes. He looked mortified. “I don’t know why I…” Gabriel shook his head. “Why? You needed release.” “But you and I…This isn’t…” “Normal?” Gabriel managed a laugh. “Passion is passion, Michael. Believe me, I’ve learned that in my long and sordid life.” “What do you mean?” Gabriel had never spoken of it, of the Hawk lust or its consequences. Michael’s countenance, so open and concerned, gave him the courage to divulge a bit of his story. “We Hawk men are cursed. Lust runs so high we’ll fuck anything. It takes all of my willpower to keep myself to my well-paid staff.” “You fucked a maid,” Michael said. “You said that earlier, but I didn’t give it much thought.” “That’s because you had your hand around your cock. Other matters intruded.” “Like your hands on my ass,” he said. Gabriel smiled. “I couldn’t resist. Your ass is almost as pretty as Millicent’s.” Michael waved that away. His eyes fell on the front of Gabriel’s trousers and his brows raised. “You’re hard, too. Why don’t you please yourself?” “You mean now? Or instead of fucking my maids and footmen?” “Footmen?” Michael gasped. “Passion is passion,” Gabriel said again. He frowned. “Then Millicent was just another pussy.”

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“No! What I felt when I was inside of her, hell, when I kissed her, was something I’ve never encountered. Yes, the passion was there, but she took all of me.” He let his words settle on Michael, whose mouth then dropped open. “You spilled your seed inside her?” Gabriel nodded even as the memory of that moment caused him to pound with need. “Yes. And she is someone completely free of any duty or dependency. I’ve never been with someone without payment of some sort.” “And with Millicent you felt free,” Michael said. Gabriel nodded then winced as his cock strained at the front of his pants. “I’m sorry. I can’t stand this any longer.” He would find a maid and fuck her until he could think again. For the first time the prospect shamed him, now that he’d had Millicent. Now that he felt such a pull toward Michael. He turned to go, but Michael grabbed his shoulder. “Why don’t you give yourself release, Gabriel? Out here, I mean? We have no shame between us, now that you’ve watched me do so.” “It’s not that,” Gabriel said. He pulled away from Michael and leaned against the tree, using the rough bark in an attempt to distract his body from his rampant erection. His balls were so tight they ached. “I can’t find pleasure by myself. It leads to excruciating pain I can hardly describe. I mustn’t be…alone.” “That’s the curse, then.” Michael blinked as he apparently processed his words. “Not just needing release but needing a partner for it. Why not marry?” Gabriel shook his head. “Hawks don’t marry.” Concern was etched on Michael’s face. “Why not?” How could he tell him about the string of unfaithful men, the horde of Hawks bearing legitimate titles and names if bastards in truth, the scores of women hurt by betrayals too numerous to mention? “Michael, that is a story for another day. I can’t stand this a

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moment longer.” When Michael touched his arm, Gabriel sucked in a breath. “Find release here, Gabriel. I’m right here.” Gabriel looked into those blue eyes so like Millicent’s. He wanted to just let go, to use his own mind and his own hand to make himself come. Damn his ancestors to Hell, he couldn’t. “I can’t.” Michael placed a hand on his chest. “Your heart is pounding. Let go before you hurt yourself.” Gabriel opened his trousers, and his cock surged forth. Even the warm summer breeze stung against his turgid flesh. The head wept as he took in a shuddering breath. Wrapping his hand around himself, he felt his shaft kick. He groaned. Michael came closer, his hand stroking his shoulders as he murmured words of encouragement. Gabriel could catch a bit of his scent, a muted version of Millicent’s though less flowery. He wanted to take Michael then, to brace him against a tree and fuck his ass until they both came. He’d never craved a man before. It had always been out of necessity when he’d taken one. Michael roused passion in him today, though. “Michael,” he groaned. Michael’s lips grazed his neck. “I liked when you kissed me, Gabriel. I’ve never felt that before.” He didn’t know why he’d kissed Michael, but he’d felt a hint of that closeness he’d had with Millicent in that moment. He began to move his hand over his cock, closing his eyes as he imagined taking Michael. Taking Millicent again. “Millicent sucked your cock,” he marveled aloud. “Tell me.” Michael chuckled. “I’ll share the details like you did. Turnabout and all of that.” Gabriel managed a smile. “Do.” Michael drew in a breath, and Gabriel knew he was reliving the pleasure of Millicent’s attentions. “Her mouth was hot and wet, her little tongue a delight.”

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Gabriel growled at the image he evoked. “She licked and sucked at me, her hands fondling my balls. She took all of me, Gabriel. All of me down her throat.” Gabriel let out a cry, pain so sharp stabbing through his belly. “I can’t!” He dropped his hand, taking in great gulps of air. “I can’t do this!” Michael stared at him in alarm. “You have to.” His gaze dropped to Gabriel’s throbbing cock. “You’re in pain.” He gave a violent shake of his head. “I can’t, Michael,” he moaned. Michael’s hands wrapped around his shaft. “Then let me.” “You don’t have to.” Gabriel stared as Michael began to stroke him. “Ah, that feels good.” “You’re so thick,” he said. “Thicker than me.” His thumb teased the slit in the head. “You’re hot, too.” His blue eyes flicked up at him. “You’re close, aren’t you?” Gabriel nodded. “Yes.” He dropped down to his knees before Gabriel. “Michael,” he said in astonishment. “Millicent sucked me.” His tongue flicked out to touch the head. “You ate Millicent’s pussy.” He licked him again, and Gabriel felt it to his soul. “Do you want me to eat you?” “Suck me,” Gabriel said on a breath. Michael closed his mouth over his cock and sucked. His motions were clumsy, his uncertainty evident, but it felt like heaven. Gabriel thrust into his mouth once, twice, then pulled out to spill his seed on the grass. Taking great heaving breaths, he collapsed against the tree once more. The pain was blessedly gone, and in its place was another connection. He felt as he had after loving Millicent. It was beyond strange. “You didn’t have to do that,” he said at last. Michael came to his feet. “You eased me. Believe me, it was a first for me. But passion is passion, as you said.”

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“You’ve never done that.” Michael shook his head. “It felt right.” A rueful smile curved his pretty mouth. “I admit I never thought our walk in the woods would end like this.” Gabriel stuffed his sated cock back into his trousers. “Truth be told, I thought you would shoot me after I confessed about Millicent.” Michael’s expression grew bleak. “What are we to do about her?” “Do you still want her?” Determination showed in his eyes. “Yes. Do you?” “Yes. I’ve never wanted a woman for herself, Michael. I know you should marry her and take her far from here, but I can’t stand the thought of either of you leaving.” Michael smiled. “But you have your dedicated staff.” “They are not what I want now.” He took a good look at this young man who was making a place in heart as surely as Millicent was. “I don’t want to be alone again.” Michael seemed to grasp his meaning. He touched his shoulder as he had earlier, camaraderie in the gesture now. “I don’t even think Millicent will have me. In her bed or out of it.” He saw the pain on Michael’s face and longed to ease it. “Look, let’s go down to the barn and see how they’re progressing on your car.” “What if it’s fixed?” “What if it is? There’s no reason for you to leave Hawksfell Manor just yet.” Michael flashed a sunny smile. “Do you honestly think a few more days will change Millicent’s mind?” Gabriel shrugged. “I have no idea, but it’s worth a try.” “You think I should take her.” “Yes, but not alone.” Michael’s eyes rounded. “You want to share her?” “I want to feel what I felt last night.” He smiled at him. “And this morning.”

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Michael’s cheeks reddened, but he grinned. “I find myself open to ideas I’ve never before considered. But to share the woman I have wanted forever?” Gabriel held his breath as Michael apparently considered all the ramifications. There was still the matter of his seed inside the girl. Those consequences had not yet been discussed, and Gabriel wouldn’t bring them up now. “If you care for her, and I believe you do, then we should see what Millicent wants,” Michael said. Gabriel let out the breath he’d been holding. “You’re a fine man, Michael. No matter what your family believes. Millicent has to know that.” Michael nodded with obvious gratitude. They picked up their rifles and made their way to the car barn. **** Millicent watched Michael and Gabriel exit the woods. The two of them walked closely together, their strides matched. They looked deuced handsome in their shooting clothes. Their rifles were held comfortably in the crooks of their arms, and neither man appeared to be bleeding. Perhaps Gabriel hadn’t told Michael about what they’d done last night. Maybe he regretted it and wished to pretend it never happened. That would be the best course for her as well, really. She couldn’t be so duplicitous toward Michael, though. He was nothing but loving and giving and yet she couldn’t bring herself to make him the promise he craved. She did want him. The memory of the passions they’d shared over the past few days made her think he could be the man to share her life forever. That was before Gabriel, though. The two men headed for a large building she guessed was the car barn. Her heart skipped. Would the car be fixed already? Just last night she couldn’t wait to leave the manor, and today she worried

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over that very possibility. Gabriel surely wanted them gone. They’d been unexpected and had certainly overstayed any sort of welcome he’d reluctantly given them. In her traitorous heart she knew the truth. She didn’t want to leave him any more than she wanted to lose Michael. Aside from the glaring fact that he’d taken her virginity—well, she’d surrendered it willingly—she wanted him, too. She couldn’t marry Michael without giving herself completely. Not just physically, either. She doubted she would ever be able to set Gabriel from her mind. Thus she would end alone, her inheritance lost, her life empty. “Enough,” she chided herself. Letting out a sigh of exasperation, she leaned her head back and breathed in the fresh air. The day was warm with just a hint of the rain from the last few days lingering in the breeze. The grounds were lovely, aside from the sight of two men wholly ignoring her. The gardens beyond the terrace were well-tended riots of color. She didn’t see the gardeners at work but couldn’t ignore their handiwork. All of the earl’s staff were quite proficient. She closed her eyes. Again her mind drifted to the rumors she’d yet to have clarified. Something was wrong here at Hawksfell Manor. Something dark, and Gabriel was at the center of it. Perhaps she could get Gabriel’s chauffeur to drive her into the village. No doubt those residents would know all about the Hawk reputation if Michael had heard of it on so brief a stop at the inn. “Millie!” she heard Michael call. She opened her eyes to find him and Gabriel striding toward her. Michael looked bright and affable, a big smile wreathing his face. Gabriel didn’t appear quite as carefree, but he wore a smile as well. What were they about? “Hello, Michael.” She turned to Gabriel. “Lord Hawksfell.” “You agreed to call me Gabriel, Millicent,” he said. She gasped, her cheeks flaming. She looked sharply at Michael to gauge his response, but he merely smiled again.

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“Gabriel,” she choked out. “I’m afraid Michael’s car won’t be ready for a few more days yet,” Gabriel said as he stepped up onto the terrace. “Something about the axle. I leave those details to my chauffeur.” “So we’ll have some time to enjoy the manor,” Michael said. “The outside, in any event. I’m pleased to see the sun,” Gabriel said. “You two enjoyed your outing today, I gather?” she asked. They shared a look of some import, and then each answered in the positive. Michael stepped close to her and took her hand. “I’m sorry we argued yesterday, Millie.” She stared down at the hand she’d held often over the years. Today, as that night in her guest chamber, she felt a shifting inside of her. Raising her gaze to look into his eyes, she saw something different there as well. He appeared…determined. A glance at Gabriel saw he watched them with a pleased expression stamped on his handsome face. Her heart dropped to her stomach. “What are you two about?” She had to know. “Nothing,” Michael said with a laugh. Gabriel’s eyes were hot on her now, causing her breath to catch. “Let’s go get ready for lunch, Michael,” he said. “Millicent, we’ll see you in the dining room.” He and Michael left her staring after them, her heart pounding. What had they discussed on their walk in the woods?

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Chapter 9 “The both of you?” Millicent asked. Her heart pounded at the preposterous but oh so titillating notion. There were no servants in the parlor this afternoon, astonishing as that was, and it was only the three of them present behind tightly closed doors. She deliberately put down the cards she held, attempting to hide the trembling of her hands. “You cannot be serious, Michael.” He wore that look of determination on his face she’d glimpsed the night of the accident. “I have wanted you forever, Millie. You can’t deny what happened with Gabriel, but that doesn’t change matters.” “What happened?” She gasped as the truth settled on her. She glared at Gabriel, who watched with a neutral expression. “You told him.” “Yes.” Gabriel lost a bit of his rigidity and leaned his arms on the card table. “I couldn’t keep the truth from the man who loves you.” She spread her hands on the table, her body flushing hot. “You couldn’t wait to gloat over your conquest, you mean,” she said, ignoring his words. “No,” Gabriel said, his gaze dark. “I went to you to speak on Michael’s behalf. I told him that as well.” She recalled his words before he’d loved her beyond reason. He had asked about Michael and his concern had seemed genuine. Before he’d stripped her nightgown from her body, that was. “Why?” she asked. “He wanted me to know all of it, Millie,” Michael said. “When did the two of you become bosom chums, may I ask?” Michael’s cheeks flushed, so she glared at Gabriel. “You’ve wanted

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us gone from the first night and you,” she added, rounding on Michael again, “you have done everything but drag me to Gretna Green. What could the two of you possibly have in common to have such a deep conversation?” “You,” they both said. They shared a smile, and she felt the very air in the room still. “M–me?” Gabriel grabbed her hand, his large fingers stroking her skin as he stared into her eyes. He was rough and beautiful, his lips parted and his gaze intent. “I took you last night, Millicent. It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced.” She swallowed thickly. The way he’d taken her, braced above her and so deep inside… “Unlike anything,” she agreed. “But you told Michael?” “He told me all of it,” Michael said, taking her other hand and drawing her attention to him. “What he did to you.” He licked his lips, a glint of lust clear in his blue gaze. “What you tasted like.” “How you screamed when you came,” Gabriel added. She pulled out of their grasps, her fingers curling against her empty palms. “You told him all of it?” she asked in a small voice. “You know, Michael?” “It only made me want you more, Millie.” “How can that be? I betrayed you.” He shook his head. “I don’t believe that. Perhaps if this had transpired a week ago I might feel different. You must feel something for Gabriel to give him what I want.” “And now you wish me to make love with both of you?” They both nodded. “Why?” she asked. “We both want you,” Gabriel said, stroking his fingers over her arm. “Michael has waited patiently for you, don’t you think?” She came to her feet. “You speak as though I have been dangling my virtue in front of him like a carrot! I was unsure of what I wanted,

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Gabriel. That is why I hadn’t given in to Michael’s marriage proposal.” “What is it you want, then?” Michael asked, using nearly the same words Gabriel had last night. “Tell me, and I’ll do everything in my power to give it to you.” She looked from one to the other. Strain showed on their faces. That, and worry as well. Was she really so important to both of them? Her body tingled with the prospect of loving both of them, but that couldn’t be right. Shame and desire crashed through her. “Oh, why didn’t I just marry you when I had the chance?” she wailed. “Millie,” Michael rushed out, standing to wrap her in his arms. “I know why now. You needed to find Gabriel.” He held her closer, stroking her hair. “I needed him, too.” She nodded, admitting in silence at least to the truth in his words. Something else he said confused her, though. “You needed him?” She pulled back to look at him. “Why?” Michael smiled. “There’s nothing for me at Crowley Park, which you well know. I say we take the time here to find out if we can have a different life.” “Different?” She watched as Gabriel stood and crossed to them. “With Gabriel?” Michael nodded. “I want you, Millicent,” Gabriel said. “Don’t deny you want me, too.” “I don’t deny that,” she said quickly. “But—” “Shh,” Michael said, placing a finger over her lips. “I can smell your scent, Millie. So sweet and hot. I know you want me, too.” She gave a shudder as she realized how right he was. Her pussy was throbbing with need for him. “I do,” she said on a sigh. Michael took her mouth, his tongue dipping inside to stroke and tease as her blood pounded in her ears. His hands were on her, her bottom, her breasts, and she felt like she was falling. Another pair of

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hands, very large hands, grasped her from behind. Gabriel’s lips were on her neck, his body pressed tight against her. His cock was hard against her bottom, and she wriggled against him. “Oh, my,” she sighed. Gabriel chuckled in her ear as they moved her over to the couch. She sat, nestled into the thick cushions at her back, as they removed their jackets. Her breath seized in her lungs. Would they take her here? Now? “You’ll fuck her this time, Michael,” Gabriel said, his voice harsh. He flicked his gaze at her and she nearly swooned. “If the lady agrees?” She opened her mouth but could form no reply other than a nod. “What of you?” she managed to utter. Michael shared a laugh with Gabriel. “That’s my Millie.” She thought to deliver both of them a set down, but then their shirts were off, and she could only stare. The lighting was quite good in the parlor, and there was no detail she missed. They were both so beautiful. Different yet equally compelling. They left on their trousers, blast it, but she could see their cocks outlined through the fabric. They were hard. For her. Her pussy began to swell, and she moved against the couch to ease the ache. “Now for you,” Gabriel said, taking her hand and gently pulling her up from the couch. “I need to see you in the light.” “She’s gorgeous,” Michael said. “Trust me.” She couldn’t do more than stand there as they made quick work of her shoes and dress, her corset and slip. They left on her stockings, though. It was curious, but she felt so very pretty dressed this way. “Back on the couch, Millie,” Michael said. “Spread your legs.” His tone was so commanding she simply obeyed. They both stared at her, from breasts to pussy, making her juices flow. She was hot and tingly and wanted them to do something. Maybe Gabriel would put his mouth on her again? The couch dipped slightly as Gabriel joined her. He kissed her as

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Michael had, demanding kisses that drugged her, and placed his hands on her breasts. He made the most intriguing sounds as he teased and pinched her nipples. “Oh!” she gasped. Michael joined them, his fingers stroking up her thigh to touch her pussy. When Gabriel released her mouth, she missed his taste but could make no protest as he sealed his lips to one breast. Sharp pleasure arched through her, and she spread her legs wider. “Oh!” “Eat her, Michael,” Gabriel murmured, pausing to lick her tortured nipple. “Like you ate me.” She nodded then froze. “Like you…Michael?” He smiled at her and settled between her legs. “I wager you’re sweeter.” She blinked, her mind twisting around the possibility of Michael loving Gabriel. Was that what they’d done in the woods? How was that possible? All thought flew from her mind as Michael’s tongue stroked her. She closed her eyes and just felt. He was thorough, sucking at her clit as his fingers moved within her. It was beyond wonderful, his attentions on her as Gabriel teethed her nipple. “So sweet, Millie,” Michael said. His motions became rougher then, his tongue stabbing deep inside. She felt herself climb toward climax and clutched at Gabriel’s head and held him tight to her breast. The next moment she came, and great sobs tore from her throat as she bucked beneath them. When she opened her eyes, she found Gabriel staring at her. “Take Michael, love,” he said, his voice rough. She flicked her gaze to Michael, who smiled from his position between her legs. “Do you want me?” he asked. “Yes,” she breathed. ****

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Michael stared up at the girl he’d loved forever, more aroused by that one word than by her wanton display on the couch. He’d made her come so hard his ears rang from her cries of pleasure. His mouth was full of her taste, and he licked his lips. Gabriel watched, his gaze hot, as Millicent reached down to tug Michael up to her. He crushed his mouth to hers, loving her lips as he had her pussy. She moaned and arched against him. Freeing his cock from his pants, he rubbed his shaft against her. She was scalding hot, and he let out a groan. “Now,” Gabriel said. “Take her now, Michael.” It wasn’t given like a command or any sort of permission, just an urging to give their girl what she needed. What they all needed, really. Rearing back, he held her legs apart and drove inside of her. “God, Millie!” he cried as he felt her inner muscles tighten. Her cunt squeezed at him, so tight and slick and demanding that he nearly came in that instant. Bracing an arm on either side of her, he rose to stroke deep and fast. Gabriel reached down to pinch her clit as he sucked one of her nipples, causing her to keen softly. He could feel what the two of them did to her, could feel her climax start around his cock. She cried out again, shuddering in her release as Michael let go and poured himself inside her. She was a mass of satisfaction, such a lovely bundle of bliss there on the couch. Michael dropped a kiss on her parted lips and withdrew with a sigh. “Michael,” she breathed. Her gaze flicked over to Gabriel. “What the two of you did to me…” Gabriel shifted on the couch and held her close. “Michael gave you those orgasms, love. I merely assisted.” Michael couldn’t help but grin at his praise. “But what of you, Gabriel?” His dark eyes flicked between him and Millicent. “I’m about to burst,” he admitted. Millicent smiled and came to her knees. “Then we must do

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something about that.” Michael thought she’d take him in her mouth and was eager to watch Gabriel climax that way again. To his surprise she opened his trousers and straddled him. “Love me, Gabriel.” Millicent’s beautiful ass was perched on Gabriel’s thighs. She began to move, up and down, to take him high inside of her pussy. Her smooth thighs clenched as she rode him. She grabbed on to his shoulders and leaned her head back. Michael came up behind her and cupped her magnificent breasts. He pinched her nipples, and she cried out. “Yes!” She moaned. “Oh, yes!” Gabriel grunted as he arched off the couch to meet her every thrust. “I’m coming, love.” “Come, Gabriel,” she whispered. “Please.” His hands grabbed at her ass, moving her faster over him. He dipped a finger into her hole, and she shivered with obvious delight. Michael continued to squeeze her breasts as Gabriel fingered and fucked her. She came with a scream, and he pumped a few more times before shouting his own climax. For a long minute the only sounds in the room were their labored breathing and contented groans. Michael dropped a kiss on her supple back as Gabriel stroked her hair. “Lovely Millie.” She smiled over her shoulder at him then cuddled against Gabriel’s chest. Michael sat beside them. He stroked her hair, her cheek. He felt such a connection to the girl he’d known forever and the man he’d known just a few days. There was something to the three of them. Something he’d never felt before. “This is what I want,” he heard Gabriel say in a low voice. “Forever.” He heard such longing in Gabriel’s voice, but that wasn’t what shocked him. No, he was stunned to realize this was what he wanted, too.

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Chapter 10 Gabriel wished he could draw the cursed words back into his mouth. He held Millicent close, his cock and finger still inside her while Michael hugged her from beside him. His release was as shattering as it had been the night before, her body fitting his completely. Michael eyed him as he obviously tried to make sense of what he’d just said. “How do you feel, Millicent?” he asked instead. She let out a sigh of supreme satisfaction and lifted her head, pushing her golden waves out of her face. The smile she gave him caused a shift inside his chest. “I feel complete.” He smiled at her and kissed her nose. “Three orgasms will do that.” “More than three, I wager,” she said with a grin. “Your finger is in my bottom.” He withdrew it and squeezed one cheek. “It’s such a lovely bottom, too.” She laughed and reached over to Michael, drawing him to her. “Michael, you were so wonderful.” Michael beamed, pride shining in his blue eyes. “I’ve wanted you for so long, Millie.” “Gabriel said you love me,” she asked, her eyes flitting between him and Gabriel. “I do,” Michael said, the words clear and true. They kissed, tender caresses that Gabriel couldn’t help but watch. His stomach twisted. He’d never said that to another person, except maybe Mrs. Holmes when he was a little boy. He’d certainly never

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said it to any of his partners. God, he’d never felt it. He stroked Millicent’s hair. Was this love? He liked her, that was certain. Her mind, her face, and her body. He saw what was between the two of them and wished for one heartbreaking moment that he could be a part of it. He let out a breath, and Millicent pulled away from Michael to stare at him. She gave Michael another quick kiss then sealed her mouth to Gabriel’s. He took it as tenderly as he could. His eyes stung, and he squeezed them shut. Sex he knew. He’d lost count of the number of partners he’d had over the years. This connection, though? This closeness he craved with Millicent and Michael? That was completely foreign to him. She sat back, a cheeky grin on her face. “Is this to be expected during the rest of our stay?” “I hope so,” Michael put in. Gabriel nodded. “And maybe beyond.” She blinked and tilted her head. “What are you saying, Gabriel?” “Never say you want us to stay here!” Michael asked. It was as if his tongue was frozen in his mouth. He pressed on, finding some words at last. “I simply meant that you two are always welcome at Hawksfell Manor.” Identical pairs of blue eyes looked at him in obvious confusion. Michael’s confusion soon gave way to resolve. “I don’t want to leave,” he said at last. “Michael, you can’t mean that!” Millicent said. “Our family has plans.” “I don’t want any part of their plans.” He stood and began to put his clothes on. “Oh, I want you. I’ve always wanted you. But I don’t want to be a means to an end.” She moved to get off his lap and Gabriel dropped his hands from her. She stood, her hands braced on her hips, seemingly unaware that she was stark naked. “And what of my inheritance? Am I to lose everything because of your pride?”

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“My pride?” Michael raked his fingers through his hair. “Hell, you and I both know I have none.” Gabriel sucked in a breath. Easy, man. He stood and got dressed himself, trying his best to stay out of the Crowleys’ argument. Michael had a point, though. Millicent had been leading him on a merry chase for years. He knew now that it wasn’t because she was selfish or cruel. The girl really didn’t know what she wanted. Michael was apparently in no mind to hear that particular truth, however. Gabriel picked her clothes up off the floor and silently handed them to her. “You have no pride?” Millicent countered, donning her slip and corset. “Why? Because you love me and I am such an unworthy creature?” Again Gabriel said nothing. He just deftly laced her corset and handed her dress to her. “No! Damn it, no.” Michael put on his jacket with jerky movements. “I do love you, Millie. I have for years, and it seems that even now, after we’ve been together in every way, you don’t think of me as a man.” Gabriel saw the pain on Michael’s face and felt it himself. Millicent didn’t seem to see that, though. She pulled on her dress and stepped into her shoes. “How can you say that?” Michael seemed to lose the fight in him in the next breath. His shoulders sagged. “I need something more than a life of being your husband for propriety’s sake. For our family’s sake. I need to know that you love me.” Millicent’s eyes filled with tears, and Gabriel fisted his hands to keep from touching her. “I thought I…Now, after this?” She waved to the couch. “I don’t know who I love.” Gabriel’s mouth dropped open. The realization was like a rock in his belly. He’d done this. He’d taken from Michael the one woman he loved. “Michael, I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

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Michael turned to him, pain clear on his face. “No, Gabriel. I knew what we were about. I thought if I wasn’t enough for her, then perhaps together…” He shrugged, the movement shaky. He left the room, and it was like that first night they’d left him in the parlor. The place felt empty despite the stunning creature still standing beside him. “Do you love him?” he asked. Her head whipped around to him. “How can you ask me that? Not ten minutes ago you were inside me.” “And it was beyond anything I’d ever felt,” he acknowledged. “But do you love Michael?” “I have been with the both of you, Gabriel. How can I love Michael and do such a thing?” He shrugged. “I’ve never shared a lover before. All I know is I got nearly as much pleasure from watching him take you as I did when I took you myself.” Her brows drew together. “You did?” “Wouldn’t you if you saw us together?” Her mouth dropped open. “Michael put his mouth on you. You said that before, but I didn’t quite catch your meaning.” “He did. I was in a bad way, and he eased me.” She sank back down on the couch and stared up at him. “What of him?” Gabriel let her see his smile. “I helped him bring himself to orgasm.” He sat beside her. “All the while talking about what it was like to taste you. To take you.” His words evoked more images from last night. “You never did!” He nodded. “I told him how sweet your pussy tasted.” He chuckled at her blush. “I told him how tight you were when I fucked you.” Her breath left in a rush. “How can he stand to look at me?” she asked in a small voice. “He loves you.”

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She shook her head. “But I was with both of you.” “Yes.” He tucked a thick curl behind her ear. “And hopefully you will be again.” “Again?” He could see her clever mind working as she imagined them all together again. Her head cocked in contemplation, she nibbled her luscious lower lip. “When?” He hid his smile. “Tonight, if you like.” She shook her head. “I don’t know if I can do that.” “Think on it.” He wouldn’t push her, no matter how much he wanted to be with them both tonight. “Michael is a good man, Millicent. He needs to feel valued. As much as anyone does.” She gazed at him for a long moment. “As much as you?” “No one values me.” Before she could think to argue with him, he patted her hand and stood. “I’ll leave you alone now.” He couldn’t resist giving her a sweet kiss. Her lips clung to his for a moment. “I’ll see you tonight at dinner.” He left her sitting there, her hair and dress a mess, befuddlement on her beautiful face. He knew Michael loved her. He knew she loved Michael, even if she didn’t realize it yet. What he wouldn’t think about was the fact that he would never have love like that in his own life. No matter how much he wanted it. **** “Where is Lord Hawksfell’s room?” she asked William, the handsome young footman. His face was impassive. “I can take you there, my lady.” She nodded and followed him through the upstairs hallways until they came to what she presumed was the family wing. Crowley Park was large and very comfortable, but it was nothing compared to Hawksfell Manor. Electric sconces lit their way, which was a good

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thing. The place seemed gargantuan. Finally, William stopped before a door. “Lord Hawksfell’s chamber is here,” he said with a bow. He left her there, and she wondered about the staff’s response to the tale William would carry belowstairs. He didn’t seem to like gossip, taken with the way he’d scolded Posy the other afternoon, but perhaps that was only when the servants divulged secrets to guests. No matter. She had to speak to Gabriel first. She wanted both him and Michael, but she needed his help. She lifted her fist and rapped on the door. “Come in,” she heard him say from within. She opened the door to a sumptuous sitting room, done in tones of burgundy and gold. It was the master’s room. There was no question. Through an archway she saw his bed, wide and high and of ornatelycarved dark wood. The thought of him on that bed made her tingle. “Gabriel?” she called. A shuffle of feet and he stood there, a magnificent dressing gown on blue satin draped over his body. “Millicent!” “I had to come,” she admitted. His eyes took in every inch of her. She wished now she’d had the courage to come here in just her nightgown and wrapper, but the way was unknown to her and the manor too well-staffed for such clandestine games. The dress she’d worn for dinner would have to suffice. At least until he and Michael took it off of her. He came closer and kissed her tenderly. “What have you decided?” “I love Michael,” she said. “I want you, too, Gabriel.” A smile slowly spread across his face as he reached for her. “Millicent—” She held up a hand to stop him. “I don’t know what that makes me, but I want what I want.” “Passion is passion,” he said, losing his smile. She shook her head. “No! I want you because I…care for you,

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too.” Something flashed in his eyes, something like hope. Then he gave a curt nod. “What will you tell Michael?” She stared down at the floor as she tried to think of the words that would express the conclusion she’d come to in her room. “I want you both, but I don’t want Michael to feel like he’s less than a man.” She lifted her head. “He’s very capable of satisfying me, Gabriel. I don’t need you.” He recoiled as if she’d slapped him. “What?” “I want you!” she rushed out. “I don’t need you, but I want you. Will you come with me to Michael’s room?” His brow knit, and then he shook his head. “I have a better idea.” He grabbed her, gave her a quick kiss, then pushed her toward the bedroom. “Wait in here. I’ll have Michael fetched from his room.” Relief flooded her, that and heady anticipation of what the three of them would share tonight. From out in the sitting room, she heard Gabriel call to an ever-present footman. She didn’t hear his orders, but she knew that soon both of her men would join her. Working as quickly as she could manage, she stripped off her clothes and unpinned her hair. With no other option, she left on her slip and perched on the edge of the bed. What would Michael think about Gabriel’s summons? Would he come? Yes, she decided in the next moment. He cared about Gabriel, as Gabriel did him. They’d pleasured each other. Just days ago she would have been certain such a thing wasn’t possible. Yet the thought of the two of them bringing each other to orgasm made her insides ache with need. That afternoon in the parlor, first with Michael then with Gabriel, she’d experienced more pleasure than she’d ever imagined. When she’d taken the initiative and ridden Gabriel’s magnificent cock, when he’d grabbed her and pushed a finger into her bottom, she’d been overwhelmed. She straightened. His finger? Was that how he aided Michael in the woods?

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“Millie!” She looked to find Michael standing in the doorway, the belt of his dressing gown tied crookedly in obvious haste. “Michael,” she breathed. He came to her and cupped her face, bringing his sweet mouth to hers. She did love him. Yes, she was beginning to care for Gabriel as well. Perhaps if there was room in her bed for both of them there could be room in her heart? “Gabriel said you had to speak to me.” She nodded, watching as Gabriel stepped into the bedroom and closed the door. He leaned against the door and crossed his arms over his massive chest, watching as if her words mattered to him as well. “I love you, Michael,” she said. Michael’s face lit like the sun, and he wrapped her in his arms. “Millie, I’ve waited for those words.” She held him close, loving the feel of his embrace, yet wanting more. There was more she needed to say as well. “Michael, you are all the man I need.” He pulled back and shot a look at Gabriel, who kept his expression impassive. “What do you mean?” “You are enough for me, but I want Gabriel, too.” She waited for censure, for hurt to cloud his eyes, but to her surprise he smiled. “I’m glad.” He stroked her cheek. “I’ll always want you, but I want something more now.” “More?” “The way you felt when Gabriel and I loved you,” he said. “How much I liked watching you come with him.” Gabriel came closer. “I want you, Millicent. I want Michael here as well.” “Tonight?” she asked. He shrugged. “For a start.” “Well, I’m not going to waste another moment,” she said, coming

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to her feet. “I need you both.” They dropped their dressing gowns, and she stared wide-eyed at their cocks. “You need me, too.” “Yes,” Michael said, pulling her toward him. They kissed again as Michael’s hands roamed over her. He held her so tightly, her breasts flush against his chest, her hips cradling his erection. Her nipples throbbed as she rubbed against him. Suddenly Gabriel’s hands were on her but not as she’d expected. She leaned slightly away from Michael and saw Gabriel stood behind him, his hands reaching around his waist to cup her bottom. She lifted up on tiptoes and kissed his mouth and the expression on his face was one she’d glimpsed earlier. Hope. What he did next shocked her, but only for a moment. He turned his head and dropped a kiss on Michael’s neck. Michael closed his eyes and leaned his head back. He looked so beautiful, like a statue come to life between them. She kissed his throat as Gabriel stroked his chest. Gabriel wore a look of determination on his face, that and pure passion. She didn’t know precisely what they would do, but she knew she wanted to be a part of it. She kissed Gabriel’s firm lips again then kissed Michael’s delectable mouth. She exchanged a glance with Gabriel, communicating that she was open to whatever would happen next. He flashed her a smile then nuzzled the back of Michael’s neck again. Juices flooded her pussy, and she felt like her skin was on fire. And weren’t they just the loveliest two men she’d ever seen?

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Chapter 11 Michael held Millicent close in his arms as Gabriel ran his talented hands over him. His cock was stiff against Millicent’s belly, Gabriel’s rock hard between the cheeks of his ass. Millicent kissed him, then Gabriel, then stroked her fingers over his cock. His senses were overwhelmed as each of them seemed determined to drive him out of his mind. “Gabriel,” he gasped as his finger dipped into his ass. “Easy, Michael,” he said, his voice rough. “I’ll ease my way.” “Your way?” Michael heard Millicent ask. Gabriel released him and Michael swayed on his feet. His every nerve was pulled taut. Millicent licked his chest, and he trembled. “Ah, Millie,” he groaned. Her fingers wrapped around his shaft, stroking him as he felt his blood pound. It was amazing, her loving him as Gabriel…Where was Gabriel? “You’ll like this,” Gabriel said as he stepped behind him once more. He teased his ass again then slipped two fingers inside. They were coated with some sort of cream, which warmed with his touch. “How does that feel?” he asked, moving his fingers in and out. Michael squeezed his eyes shut and drew in a breath. “So good.” He heard Millicent make a sound of encouragement, and Gabriel said something in return he didn’t catch. He shifted, and Michael felt the tip of Gabriel’s cock at his hole. He thought he should stop this, but it felt too damn good. Millicent ran her tongue over his nipple, and he shivered. Reaching up, he grabbed onto Gabriel’s shoulders

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and moved his ass toward him. Gabriel let out a groan and sank inside him. It was incredible, his cock hard and hot and deep inside him as his own began to weep with need. Gabriel held himself still for a moment then began to thrust. “God,” Michael bit out. “That’s…” “Does that feel good, Michael?” Millicent asked, her voice betraying her obvious excitement. He peeped one eye open and saw her watching, her eyes hot and her mouth open. Her face shined with love and passion, and he nearly came in that moment. “It’s beyond words.” Gabriel murmured words of encouragement behind him, moving in and out as he moaned his own pleasure. Millicent’s hands grew frantic on him, and before he guessed what she was about, she fell to her knees and took him in her mouth. Michael let out a shout as he gave a great shudder. His every nerve was on fire, his ass taking everything Gabriel gave and his cock reveling in what Millicent did. She nibbled around the head, sweet sounds of pleasure coming from her lips as she stroked him. Up and down, her delicate hands cupping his balls, she took him deep in her mouth. It was too much. Gabriel was hot and thick moving inside of him, Millicent’s mouth was driving him mad. The sensations combined to send him hurtling over the edge. He came in hot spurts in her mouth as Gabriel climaxed behind him. It was as if he’d been turned inside out, panting and moaning as he surrendered. He slumped back against Gabriel, who held him up as he took in rasping breaths himself. When Michael at last recovered his senses, he opened his eyes and gazed down at Millicent. She sat back on her heels, a smile fixed on her face. “Oh, Michael.” ****

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Gabriel clapped Michael on one shoulder. “That was incredible, man.” Michael gave a shaky nod of agreement. “I never imagined such a thing, but what the two of you did to me…” “I loved watching you both,” Millicent admitted with a blush. Gabriel silently agreed with her. She was obviously aroused, her body pink from head to toe. “But what of our lady?” Gabriel took her hand and tugged her to her feet. “Are you hot for our passion, Millicent?” She nodded, licking her lips. “But you have both spent already.” He glanced at Michael, who now slumped on the edge of the bed. He was completely languid, and Gabriel couldn’t help but smile. He took Millicent in his arms and tossed her onto the bed. She let out a squeal as he spread her legs and buried his face in her cunt. She was dripping wet, her lips so swollen from what she’d seen and what she’d done to Michael. His every sense was filled with her. Each lick of his tongue was met with a cry of delight. He held her thighs wide, delving deep inside as he rubbed his thumb over her clit. She began to sob, so close to release she could barely draw breath. Her juices flooded his mouth, and he closed his lips over her clit and sucked hard. “Gabriel!” she screamed, arching off the bed. Her legs trembled in his hands as he nibbled at her, wringing every bit of passion from her as she bucked beneath him. When she stilled at last, he lifted his head and grinned at her. “I made love to both Crowleys tonight.” “Oh, yes,” she sighed. He fell beside her on the wide bed and held her. “Michael, come up here.” Michael yawned then crawled up to curl against her other side. “I can scarcely move.” Gabriel was exhausted as well, but to have the both of them in his bed felt so right. Michael and Millicent were soon asleep, so he pulled

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up the blankets and tucked all three of them beneath. When they left he would be alone once more, with no one but servants to ease him. He didn’t want that any more. He wanted love and passion both. He wanted the chance to have a real life with real partners. Something else whispered in the back of his mind, a longing he’d kept buried for years. He admitted the truth to himself at last. He wanted legitimate children of his own. It was so unlike anything he ever believed he could have, but with Millicent and Michael at Hawksfell Manor, he could father children who would feel no shame. Sons and daughters who would know their mother. Who would know their father loved them. Hot tears stung as he settled beside them, another truth settling on him. After the life he’d led, fucking everything that moved, how could he hope for happiness now? He couldn’t. It was inescapable, but no matter how much he wanted that life, he didn’t deserve it. When they both left the manor, he would let them go. Pushing the thought from his mind, he prayed for sleep. **** “What are you saying?” Michael asked. “Your car will be ready tomorrow,” Gabriel said, not looking up from the papers on his desk. There was nothing of import in them, just a report of his financial accounts that continued to grow. “You and Millicent will leave. It’s what’s best.” “What’s best for whom?” He looked up at last to find Michael glowering down at him. “Michael, the life I’ve led—” “What of it?” Michael sat in the chair across from him and leaned forward. “Tell me what is so awful that you would send us away now.” “You can’t mean to stay.”

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Michael looked away for a moment, a pensive expression on his face. When he faced Gabriel again, his determination was clear. “I want to. And I might be presumptuous, but I believe you want us to stay, too.” Gabriel couldn’t deny it, but he wouldn’t admit it, either. “What I want doesn’t matter.” “Why the devil not?” Michael stood again and began to pace the study from end to end. “You want us both here, Gabriel. The way you love us both, I know you don’t want us to go.” “You have to marry Millicent,” Gabriel said. Michael stopped and turned to face him. “Not necessarily.” Michael stared at him until Gabriel caught his meaning. He tamped down the spark of hope inside him. “What, you believe I should marry her?” “Yes. She’d get her inheritance, and both of us would be out from under the thumbs of our family.” He shook his head. “She would never agree to marry me.” Michael’s mouth curved up at one corner. “You didn’t say you don’t want to marry her.” For one brief, shining moment he imagined it. In the next breath he let out a curse. “Hawks don’t marry.” “Now, why—?” A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. “Come,” Gabriel said. The door opened, and Grantley stood there. “My lord, I thought— Oh, excuse me.” “What is it, Grantley?” The man of affairs’s eyes darted to Michael and back to Gabriel again. “I’ve been to the village, Lord Hawksfell.” His brows raised above his blue eyes. “To the inn.” Gabriel waited for the man to continue. He was as young as Michael, handsome in a quiet way. He was also very efficient, and Gabriel trusted him completely. “Say what it is you came to say.”

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“There is another Hawk there,” Grantley said. Gabriel blinked in surprise. His gaze darted to Michael, who was watching their exchange with obvious interest. “Who?” “I’m not sure. He’s been…staying at the inn for a fortnight now.” Gabriel caught Grantley’s meaning. There was another damned Hawk man fucking his way through the peasantry. Lovely. “What am I to do about that?” he asked. Grantley’s cheeks reddened. The man’s embarrassment was always surprising, as he was the one who secured the staff here at the manor. “Look, Grantley,” Gabriel went on, thinking to spare him any more discomfort in front of Michael. “Find out what you can about him and report back to me.” “Very good, my lord.” Grantley nodded to Michael. “Mr. Crowley.” Michael nodded, and Grantley left them alone once more. “What’s this about another Hawk?” Michael asked. Gabriel just shook his head. “It’s none of your concern. Hell, it’s none of mine.” After another moment, Michael waved away the troubling topic of a Hawk in the neighborhood being a…Hawk. “You said that Hawks don’t marry.” Michael placed his hands on the desk and leaned closer. “Tell me why.” There was no reason to sugarcoat it. Not with the man he’d known intimately and cared for as much as Millicent. “Hawks spread their seed far and wide, Michael. Fucking anything and everything and leaving illegitimate children in their wake. No doubt that’s what my Hawk relative at the inn is about. The countryside is strewn with cousins born on the other side of the blanket, recognized and titled but raised without any care from their fathers.” He sucked in a breath. “Or their mothers, in my case.” Michael reared back, his brow furrowed. “You had no mother?” Gabriel shrugged, masking the pain the realization always caused

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him. “It’s rumored she was a scullery maid, paid to leave me behind after she birthed me.” “Your father raised you?” Gabriel laughed without humor. “Hardly. Mrs. Holmes did more to bring me up than the late earl ever did.” Michael sank back down into the chair. “But you keep to your servants. You told me so. They don’t seem abused or unhappy.” “They are well-paid for their part, and for their discretion.” “Have you any bastards? Is that why you don’t want to marry?” “No! I have never come inside a woman.” He looked away. “That is, before Millicent.” Michael wore that contemplative expression again. “Then marry her. She might have your child.” He grinned. “Or mine. Either way it would be a Hawk and would have the life you never did.” Gabriel shook his head. “It wouldn’t work.” “Are you saying you would continue to take your servants even if we stayed?” “No.” He looked into Michael’s bright-blue eyes. “In fact, I haven’t needed that release since loving the two of you.” “Then you must at least try. Ask Millicent to marry you. Today. I’ll stand by the both of you.” He felt that connection to Michael again, that assuredness that he and Millicent were what he needed to emerge from the dark. “What of your life?” “What of it? I have my own money. And really, I have nothing at Crowley Park, Gabriel. Marrying Millicent was all I had to offer the family, apparently.” He slid a wicked smile at him, his eyes sparkling. “Now Millicent will get her money and they won’t rule either one of us.” Gabriel leaned back in his chair and rubbed his hand over his face. He closed his eyes and gave voice to his desires at last. “I want to marry her. I think I love her.” “Then ask her,” Michael said again. “I’ll help convince her our

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lives can be here at Hawksfell Manor.” Gabriel opened his eyes. “I’ll have to tell her all of it. She’ll hate me.” “She might.” Michael bit his lip then shrugged. “Millicent is not your ordinary girl. Last night proved that to me if not to you.” “Oh, I’m well aware of that.” He slowly nodded. “I’ll try, Michael. I want the both of you here with me forever.” Michael beamed at him. “Now let’s discuss that proposal.” Gabriel returned his smile, feeling his aching heart beat full again.

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Chapter 12 “Shut your mouth, Posy.” Millicent paused outside the library, the sound of William’s admonition stilling her. A quick glance down the hallway showed her she was alone out here. If William and Posy were in the library maybe she could at last get answers to her questions, even though the manner was a tad devious. Her heart began to pound as she leaned closer to the doorframe. “Admit it, William,” Posy said, her tone high. “We got it easy now, getting paid handsomely yet not having to do any of that mischief.” “Mischief?” William asked. “We serve Lord Hawksfell, Posy. It’s our job.” “Oh, is that so?” Posy laughed. “Tell me you don’t enjoy serving him on your knees!” Millicent’s mouth dropped open. William pleasured Gabriel? Dread curled in her belly. Was that the Hawks’ secret? “You’ve had your mouth on him, Posy,” William said, his voice low. “He’s fucked you, too.” Millicent bit her lip, managing to withhold her cry of shock. Gabriel took his maids? It was too horrible to consider. “Yes, and it was no hardship,” Posy returned. “I’m just sayin’ now that the lady and Mr. Crowley are here, that part of our duty is over.” “Will you miss it?” William asked her, his voice holding quite a different note from a moment earlier. It was low and smooth. Posy let out a giggle, and Millicent could almost see her eyes

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sparkling up at the handsome footman. “Now, William. Don’t you think I have a different duty in mind now?” William was quiet, but Millicent could hear the rustling of clothes. Posy’s sounds of delight made it easy to guess what William was about with the pretty maid. Millicent pulled back, leaning against the wall as her pulse pounded. Could it be? Gabriel had sex with his servants? All of them? He paid them for that service, like some sort of slave trader? “No, it can’t be,” she whispered. A gasp came from the library. “Shh,” she heard William urge. Time seemed to stop as the two servants held themselves still. Millicent knew the ever-efficient footman would be out in the hallway soon, once he adjusted his trousers, no doubt. She couldn’t be found here. It was just too much. She rushed down the hall, not caring a whit if anyone heard her now. Once in her guest chamber, she closed the door tight and collapsed against it. Tears streamed down her cheeks, tears for everything she’d lost and hadn’t even known she’d wanted. Gabriel was not the man she thought he was. He was so tender with her, so kind to Michael. Last night, as he’d loved Michael so thoroughly and then brought her to stunning climax, she’d thought she’d never been as happy. Sleeping between them, tucked safe and secure in their arms, she’d felt like she belonged somewhere at last. Her family couldn’t touch her or demand she make certain her inheritance stay in their hands. Michael wouldn’t wear that sad expression she glimpsed now and again when he believed himself less than worthy. Now that dream was shattered. She had to get away from the manor. She had to get away from Gabriel and the life he led here. She’d marry Michael and the two of them would never speak of Gabriel or their time at Hawksfell Manor again. She clutched her belly, sobbing softly. What if there was a child? Both of them had spilled inside her. It had been wonderful and

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right, but now she knew it was oh so wrong. Would Michael even have her now that she’d done all those things with Gabriel? Would he raise a child that might not be his own? “I have nothing now,” she whispered, her throat hoarse with tears. She sank down to the floor and buried her face in her hands. Some time later, a knock came at her door. She jumped then came to her feet. She stepped away from the door. Scrubbing her palms over her cheeks, she dried her tears and took a fortifying breath. “Yes?” she called. “It’s Mary, my lady,” the maid said from the other side. Had Gabriel been with Mary, too? “Come in,” she said. Mary opened the door and hurried in her usual fashion. She came to a startled stop as she saw Millicent. “My lady! Whatever is wrong?” Millicent nibbled her lower lip then squared her shoulders. “Mary, I have to ask you something about Lord Hawksfell.” Mary’s eyes rounded. “About Lord Hawksfell?” “Yes. I heard something today. Something disturbing.” Mary colored but she held her place. “W–what, my lady?” Millicent took in a breath. “Is it true Lord Hawksfell takes certain…liberties with his staff?” Mary went pale, her head giving a tiny shake. “L–liberties?” “Does he take advantage of his position?” “No! Lord Hawksfell is kind and pays us very well.” Millicent knew what the girl meant. Pain cut into her belly. “Kind.” Mary nodded. “Yes, my lady.” Millicent saw the distress in Mary’s eyes and couldn’t bring herself to push any further. “Thank you, Mary,” she managed to say. “Can you have my things ready to leave this evening?” “This evening? I wasn’t aware…Does Mrs. Holmes know?” “I don’t know,” Millicent rushed out. “I only know that I am

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leaving Hawksfell Manor, with or without Mr. Crowley.” Mary bobbed a curtsey and rushed from the room, no doubt to escape as much as to gather her things and advise Mrs. Holmes. Millicent sank into the chair before the vanity. It was fact, then. Gabriel was a rutting bastard who used his servants like chattel. She and Michael had been nothing more than sexual playthings for the lord of the manor. Nausea roiled through her, and she swallowed thickly. “How could I have been so blind?” She only prayed the truth wouldn’t destroy Michael when he learned of it. **** She hid in her guest room until the sky began to darken. There was no time to delay. She didn’t even know if their car was ready or if Michael would accompany her. She only knew that she was getting out of there before nightfall. Mary had come back an hour earlier, her face set as she’d seen to Millicent’s hair and dress. Her portmanteaux were packed, her coat cleaned and readied, yet still she hesitated. She had to speak to Michael first, to tell him of all she’d learned. He was so dear to her now, she couldn’t bear the thought of hurting him. The truth would hurt him, though. As sharply as it pained her. A knock came at the door, and she started. “Yes?” she called as she had earlier. “Millie?” Her heart plummeted to her toes as she stood. “Coming, Michael.” She went to the door and opened it. Michael stood there, a silly grin on his face. Her heart twisted. “What’s keeping you?” he asked. He lost his smile. “What’s wrong?” She took a breath. “I’m leaving Hawksfell Manor, Michael. With

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or without you. Tonight.” He blinked rapidly, apparently trying to process her words. “Leaving? Why?” “I can’t say here.” Her composure broke, and she fisted her hands at her sides. “Gabriel is not the man we thought he was! He is wicked and manipulative and I cannot wait to be well and gone from him!” Michael’s mouth dropped open, and then he wrapped her in his arms. “He isn’t. I know him.” She shook her head, burying her face against his chest. “You don’t. Neither of us do. What he makes his servants do…What he takes from them…He’s a monster.” Michael’s chest expanded against her cheek, and then he let out a long breath. “I know all of it, Millie. Gabriel told me. That and the reason.” She pulled back to glare up at him. “The reason? Did he tell you some story about how the privileged can take what they wish? How it’s their right? God, he’s manipulated you, too!” “No.” He stepped back and took her hand. “Come with me. We’ll go to him, and you’ll see.” She pulled away but he held fast to her hand. “No! I don’t want to see him again!” “I’m sorry to hear that,” a deep voice drawled from the doorway. She turned to find Gabriel standing there, as big and strong as ever and now as dear as Michael. Damn his despicable hide. “Go away, Gabriel,” she said, her teeth clenched. “I don’t want to see you.” He shot a look at Michael, its meaning lost on her. Michael nodded with obvious encouragement, and Gabriel stepped inside. “I’m sorry you learned of it this way,” he said, closing the door. “I planned to tell you all of it tonight.” “All of it?” she echoed. Gabriel nodded. Millicent felt almost numb as Michael tugged her toward the bed. He placed her there on the edge and settled beside

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her, still holding her hand. “Listen to him, Millie. I know you’re stubborn, but I’ve never known you to be unfair.” She gaped at him. “Unfair? You call me unfair after what he’s done?” “Just listen,” he said. She had to know all of it. Leaving in the dead of night was no longer an option, not if she wanted to hold on to what little sanity she had left. Michael needed her to hear Gabriel’s confession, as it were. She was burning with curiosity as well, though that urge was nearly eclipsed by her distrust. Gabriel stared at her until she gave him the smallest nod. “Tell me, then.” She braced herself for the Hawk mystery to reveal itself at last.

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Chapter 13 Gabriel dragged the chair from the vanity over to the bed and sat facing her and Michael. He folded his hands and leaned forward, taking in a big breath and slowly letting it out. “Hawks are cursed, Millicent. Lusts run high, and we have to find release.” He paused but she gave no reaction, her beautiful face still. “My father and uncles and cousins continue the family tradition of rutting their way through the countryside and leaving bastards in their wake. I don’t want that. I’ve never wanted that.” “Yet you use your staff to…” Apparently she couldn’t finish, her eyes filling with tears. “I pay them well, and they do their duty. I have never taken advantage of anyone. I’ve also never fathered a child.” Her hand went to her belly, and for a moment he imagined his son or daughter growing there. Glancing at Michael, he caught his nod and continued. “I can’t be alone in my pleasure. I’ve tried.” “So you used us,” she said in a small voice. “No! I wanted the both of you, yes. But what I feel for you both is unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. I want you to stay, both of you, forever.” “Forever?” She scoffed. “And we are to be, what? Your concubines until you tire of us and turn once more to your willing, well-paid staff?” He winced as her words bit at him. “I haven’t needed their services since I’ve been with you. I love you.” Both sets of blue eyes widened, but Michael’s were accompanied

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by a grin. Millicent reared back. “You love me?” Gabriel nodded. “God, it feels good to say those words at last. I love you, Millicent. You and Michael have come to mean everything to me.” She looked at Michael, who stroked her cheek. “Don’t you see, Millie? We can stay here with Gabriel. We don’t have to kowtow to our family any longer.” “My inheritance, Michael. What of that?” “Well,” he slid his gaze to Gabriel. “Perhaps there is another way to gain that money.” She whipped her head around to face Gabriel. “Never say you want to marry me, Gabriel.” He couldn’t hold back a smile at her fiery response. “Yes, love. I want to marry you.” Her lovely mouth gaped again, and he resisted the urge to kiss her senseless. “What of Michael?” “I’ll stay here, too,” Michael answered. “I never needed to marry you for your money, Millie.” “I love you, Michael,” she said. Michael kissed her with obvious tenderness. “What of Gabriel?” She closed her eyes. “I love him, too.” Gabriel couldn’t wait another moment. He grabbed her and pulled her into his arms. “You love me?” She nodded but didn’t lose her wary expression. “What of your staff? Will you continue as you have been?” “No.” He kissed her, tasting the salt of her tears and cursing himself for a lout. “I will never take another lover. You and Michael are all I need.” She gazed up at him, uncertainty in her eyes but love as well. “You love us both.” “I do. Please marry me, Millicent. Be the mother of my children.” He shouted out a laugh. “Children! I can’t believe how much I want them now.”

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“You have none?” she asked. “None.” He touched her flat belly. “Not yet, anyway.” It seemed like she was going to find another reason to refuse, then she pressed her mouth to his. He plunged his tongue inside, drowning in her fresh, sweet taste. “Ah, love.” She stroked his face, a smile curving her lips. “Make love to me, Gabriel.” Reaching behind her, she grasped Michael’s hand and glanced over her shoulder. “Both of you.” Michael stood and came behind her, running his lips over her neck as Gabriel kissed the swell of her breast. He was rock hard and wanted to lose himself inside of her. Both of you, she’d said. “Go to my room and get the cream, Michael,” he said as he nibbled her ear. “You want to be inside her, too.” Both Crowleys gasped, and then Michael grinned. “Right away,” he said, all but running from the room. Gabriel cupped Millicent’s face in his hands and stared into her eyes. “You will take us both tonight, love.” Her pupils dilated as she nodded. “Oh, yes.” He stripped her out of what he guessed were traveling clothes and set her on the bed. Her eyes were hot on him as he disrobed, causing his lusts to rise to their highest. It was more, though. It wasn’t the thought of a willing pussy tonight. It was Millicent. She would take him and Michael, and that was more than he could deserve. When he was naked he climbed into bed with her, turning to lean against the headboard. “Come, Millicent.” She straddled him as she had in the parlor, rubbing her hot, wet cunt over his shaft until he moaned. “I want you inside me, Gabriel. High and deep.” He growled at her then took her mouth. Her breasts were tight against him, her nipples pebbled as she rubbed them over his chest. He cupped her ass, pressing up against her until they were both so close. Shifting slightly, he took a nipple in his mouth and sucked. She grabbed his head, arching into him as she ground against his

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cock. “I love your mouth on me.” “You taste so good,” he murmured. Michael joined them and quickly disrobed. Gabriel lifted his head and gave him a kiss before he took up his place behind their girl. “Millie,” he heard Michael say, his tone tender. “You’re so beautiful.” He pressed close to her, his hands cupping her breasts as Gabriel began to finger her pussy. Juices drenched his fingers as she cried out. “Take her ass, Michael.” Millicent nodded, her eyes closed tight. “Take me, Mathew. Like Gabriel took you.” Gabriel held her hips still. Michael glanced at him over Millicent’s shoulder, a question in his blue eyes. “The cream,” he managed to say. Michael moved to grab the jar and the faint floral scent filled his nose. “Easy, Millie.” Gabriel kissed her mouth, catching her gasp of surprise as Michael first fingered her. “Just feel, love.” Millicent trembled as Michael readied her. He could hear Michael’s labored breathing, and knew he was full and hard. His own cock strained against her soft belly, and he squeezed his eyes shut. “I’m coming inside,” Michael bit out. She trembled as he began to enter. “I’ll...God, you’re so tight!” He pushed inside, and Millicent let out a cry, her dainty brows drawn together. “That is…Oh, Michael!” Michael said something, his voice laced with wonder, as he began to move. “Ah, Millie!” Gabriel increased his motions. He moved his fingers in and out of her pussy as Michael thrust slowly from behind. “I need you, Gabriel,” she said on a breath. “Take me, too.” He didn’t need a prettier invitation. Positioning her over his cock, he lowered her and thrust inside. She cried out again, clinging to his shoulders, and he and Michael began to move in and out of her.

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“It’s so…” She panted. “Oh, it’s everything!” Gabriel could feel Michael inside her, could feel her pussy holding him tight, and he closed his eyes and gave in to it. He’d never loved two people at once. He’d never really loved anyone. This was beyond even what he’d felt with Millicent that first night he’d taken her. She was wet, tight. Made full from Michael’s cock and his own. Sweat filmed their bodies, Michael groaned as he obviously neared his release. “Gabriel, can you feel it? Can you feel me?” “I can,” Gabriel breathed. “I feel…everything, like Millicent said.” “I’m coming,” Michael bit out. “God, Millie. Gabriel!” He began to shake, shudders of pleasure racking him as Gabriel managed to hold on to Millicent. Michael broke then, going still as he poured into her ass. Gabriel gave in, thrusting hard and fast up into her until she screamed her release. In the moment before climax, Gabriel knew. This was what he’d wanted. What he’d craved. He pulled her down one last time and exploded inside her. Collapsing against the headboard, he held her close and kissed the damp curls at her temple. Michael was still on top of her, wearing a look of absolute bliss. Their bodies were filmed with sweat, their scents mingling in the closeness of the room. “That was incredible,” Millicent sighed. “Passion is passion,” he offered. “No,” Michael said with a yawn. “Love is love.” Gabriel couldn’t help but smile. “This is what I want,” he admitted out loud. Millicent lifted her head and gave him a beautiful smile. “Then you shall have it.” She kissed him and cuddled close. Michael finally withdrew and fell beside him. “It seems Hawks do marry.” Gabriel cuffed him on the shoulder, looking into the eyes so like Millicent’s. “It seems this one will.”

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The sky rumbled with an approaching storm, but it didn’t matter. No one was leaving him. He wanted more, and not just for himself. The other Hawks deserved this, those that were of a like mind in any event. Maybe the curse could end with his generation. He wasn’t sure, but it was worth pursuing. He’d try first with the Hawk staying at the village inn. Maybe he could make his family one that Michael and Millicent could be proud to join. Gabriel’s unexpected guests had changed his life simply by their arrival. He would have it all, love and passion and a real life. Hawksfell Manor would never be the same. Love was love, and he would hold onto it forever.

THE END WWW.JOSIEDENNIS.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Josie Dennis writes erotic romances for the discerning reader. Her characters find love in the most amazing places, and the Happily Ever After is a guarantee. Readers who like their romances hot and their heroes and heroines open to ideas they’ve only explored in their fantasies will find her erotic romances quite satisfying.

For all titles by Josie Dennis, please visit www.bookstrand.com/josie-dennis

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