Page 55 of The Captain Claims His Temptress

Stephen fought his urge to interfere with the closing door. “Bollocks.” He wanted to slam Dupont up against the stone wall and beat the bloody hell out of him. He plopped onto the torture rack once inhabited by the troll. Settling on his back, he cradled his head in his elbows. How in the hell had everything gone so wrong? Now he would hang, and there was nothing anyone could do to help him.

But he couldn’t give up hope. He hadn’t accomplished his life goals.

He wanted to set up an aid society for injured soldiers and grieving widows, where they could be healed by meditation, music, art, and nature. He also needed to check on poor Horace. The man had no one. Not to mention, his siblings and grandmother would mourn his loss. And, finally, he wanted to marry and have children. Madalene Spencer would make a doting mother.

He just had to remain positive and resolute.

“Hmm.” Interesting. His spirits remained high despite being in a dungeon and days away from admitting his negligence to the secretary of state.

“There will be no nightmares tonight,” he whispered to the Wheel of Catherine. “Only sweet dreams of Madalene.”

And…dare he admit it? Perchance peaceful dreams of a life helping others?

Chapter twenty

October 6th, 1817

Maddiedroppedherbrushonto the dressing table. It was no use. Even though she wore her fashionable burgundy riding habit, she had no desire to primp. What did it matter anyway? There was no way she looked handsome with her eyes red and puffy from tears and lack of sleep. She half-heartedly plopped her new hat onto her head and tied the velvet ribbon. The peacock feather seemed to mock her as it waved to and fro. She growled at her reflection, then stood and paced.

Mere hours ago, the exceedingly vexing Hugo Adams had dug his fingers into her as he brutally escorted her to her chamber, leaving her arms covered with little round bruises. Then her uncle had grumbled unseemly language as he locked her away as if she were an impertinent child.

Outside, the rising sun cast gentle rays over the colorful foliage, and it would soon be time for the morning meal. Meanwhile, Stephen was locked in a musty cell awaiting his fate. Even if he proved his innocence for the pirating, he might be hanged for aiding his troublesome siblings. And now, Maddie had brought him more trouble, and she had no idea how to help him.

Trust no one,he’d said. He was wrong because Aunt Henrietta was loyal. Furthermore, she was wise and would know what to do.

Maddie retrieved the travel satchel she’d packed earlier. Cracking the door, she peeked into the hallway. The ill-tempered sentry tasked with guarding her was sound asleep. Drool dripped from the corner of his mouth. She tip-toed past him and then dashed toward Aunt Henrietta’s chamber.

Unfortunately, someone behind her called, “Mrs. Spencer. I mean Madalene.”

She cringed and looked over her shoulder.

Benjamin Calhoun, looking quite dashing in his cravat and tailored waistcoat, frowned. Thankfully, his loud greeting had not awoken the sleeping man.

She held up her finger, letting the second lieutenant know he should be quiet, then curled her fingers, calling him to her. Luckily, he understood her pantomime and stepped lightly. Once they were face to face, his eyes widened with concern. He pointed in the direction of Uncle Elias’s man. One questioning eyebrow arched.

Surely, Calhoun could be trusted. She tugged him into an alcove.

“We must be quiet,” she whispered. “He is watching me.”

Benjamin opened his mouth to say something, then clamped it shut. His jaw worked from side to side.

“What is it?” she asked.

“I cannot find Captain Eaton. Have you seen him?”

Since she could not look into his eyes and tell an untruth, she stared at her slippers and shrugged.

“I am sorry to be so bold, but this is most important. Is he by chance in your chamber?”

Oh, how she wished he was. She kept her gaze lowered as she shook her head. “No.”

“Madalene, I fear something is wrong, and he is in danger. He has not been himself these past few days.” He placed his palms on her shoulders, forcing her to meet his gaze. “He is my best mate, and I know him well. He is always reflective and contemplative. And I see the way he looks at you. He is overcome by emotion.”

Overcome by emotion? Despite the frustrating situation, she smiled.

“Alas, this is different. He is keeping something from me. I fear it has to do with those two men in the dungeon. And something is off with Dupont.” He scratched his chin. “Or one of Stephen’s siblings has dragged him into something again.” He snorted. “Maybe his younger brother Evan angered some vindictive married chap.”

Seeking her aunt’s assistance was already breaking her promise. Thus, she would tell Benjamin the truth. She shifted her weight. No. She must honor Stephen’s request and rescue him on her own.