Page 15 of The Captain Claims His Temptress

Probably making love to her husband.

Madalene bit her lip. “Now, that would be a dreadfully boring conversation.”

“Madalene’s mother is my younger sister, and she traveled to the States twenty-eight years ago to wed Clive Baker. The Bakers own Spencer & Baker. Have you heard of them?” He had not, but the baroness did not wait for an answer. “They supply lumber to our military, as well as many of our best construction companies and furniture makers.”

’Twas no surprise that the beauty was an American heiress. Her husband must be Spencer, and the bloke must still be in the States.

“Captain Eaton, is your breakfast not to your liking?” asked the baroness.

Stephen unclenched his fist. His fingers shaking, he picked up a fork. “It looks delicious, Lady Saxton.” Ignoring his lack of appetite and acting like a gluttonous hog, he shoveled a hunk of sausage into his mouth.

Calhoun glared at him, then focused on Madalene. “They say that your country is one big forest. Outside of New York City, that is.”

“Yes. Our forests are immense and beautiful. But not nearly as lovely as your gardens and country estates.” Madalene’s intense gaze forced Stephen to look into her eyes. “Captain Eaton, I hear you were involved in an exciting adventure recently.”

The bite that was halfway to his mouth tumbled onto his lap. Despite his pique, he calmly wrapped the egg in a napkin and set it beside his plate. She deserved to be challenged if she meant to play games by bringing up their previous evening’s “exciting adventure” in polite company.

He intended for there to be sharp, dagger-like icicles in his tone. “I am unsure of what you mean by asking such a question.”

A blush overtook her cheeks and her proud shoulders sagged. “I meant to ask about Waterloo. Aunt Henrietta said that you were there.”

Was that truly what she meant to ask because Stephen would not call the warexcitingoradventurous? ’Twas a horrific nightmare.

“Please forgive my reticence, but it isn’t something I care to discuss.”

“’Tis not something we want to relive,” Calhoun said.

“I am sorry,” she said. “It had to have been horrible. What an insensitive thing for me to ask.”

“Nonsense,” Calhoun said. “Do not give it another thought. Everyone asks us about it.”

She smiled at Calhoun—a big beautiful, soul-warming grin. “Thank you. I felt the fool and you have eased my embarrassment.”

“Please call me Benjamin,” Calhoun said.

Stephen fought his urge to growl.

The baroness stood. “Benjamin, we are highly pleased that you will be accompanying us this afternoon. Captain Eaton, we hope you consider joining us once you’ve completed your correspondence.” She grasped Madalene’s hand and pulled her onto her feet. “Gentleman, thank you for your company. It has been a most enjoyable meal but please excuse us. Madalene and I must prepare for this afternoon’s activities.” The baroness guided her niece away from the table.

Madalene had barely touched her plate of pastries and her teacup remained full.

“Eaton, that was very unlike you. You were a bit gruff with Miss Madalene. ’Tis my opinion it made her uncomfortable.”

A judgmental observation coming from Calhoun, seeing as how he was drooling like a fool, and flirting as if she were not married.

“Why not join us and paint since you normally handle your correspondence at night?” Calhoun asked.

“Why are you feigning an interest in flowers?” Stephen deflected.

“Last night, I was being polite. This afternoon, I will enjoy the view.” His lips twisted into a lecherous grin. “Madalene is stunning, and she makes a man feel alive.”

Stephenharrumphed. She could also get a man killed. Probably him any second now. However, there was no need to take his frustration out on his mate. He’d find a quiet place to meditate and squelch his lust.

“Please excuse me. I think I will head to my room.”

Calhoun held up a finger. “Wait. I’ll walk with you.” He finished his tea, then clapped Stephen on the back. “Eaton, if you are interested in her, I’ll back off.”

Interested? He was bloody obsessed. Especially after having a taste of her. But she was off limits… married…