Page 25 of Ruthless, But for Her

“To discuss many things. You. Our taxation of The Aldgate. Your husband's likely retribution and, in turn, Silas de Grey's.”

It was as it had always been. Men deciding her fate.

“That doesn't matter. Margot decided you were her guest and will remain so, for now.”

She couldn't hide her surprise at that.

“She built this place. And us.”

That was all the explanation she would receive, it seemed, about why Margot's word was final. He stood, once again reminding her of the imposing man she'd first met on the ship.

“Keep your door locked, for your safety. In the morning, we will send word to your husband, and you will attend our next meeting to discuss what comes next. In the meantime, I'm certain you would feel more comfortable in your own clothes. Your trunks will be arriving soon. I will have them delivered to you by sunrise.”

Another surprise. “You have my trunks? They were brought aboard The Einar?”

“Aye.”

Had he arranged for such a thing?

Ashton turned to leave but paused at the doorway, which he filled completely.

“The heavier one. Does it contain books?” he asked.

She nodded.

As he turned, she thought she heard Ashton say, “As I suspected.”

But she couldn't be entirely certain because a moment later, the door closed.

Then just as quickly, it was reopened.

“Why am I able to open the door?” he asked.

It took her a moment to understand what he was saying. She stood, leaning toward the table to fetch the door's key.

“You left but a moment ago. There was no opportunity to lock it.”

“There are men above us who would risk their lives to lie with a woman of your beauty. A moment is too long. Good evening, my lady.”

She hurried to the door and locked it.

Cassia had been called beautiful many times throughout her life, but the words had always seemed meaningless.

Until now.

CHAPTER 15

Ashton

He sat up in bed as the door opened. Barely awake, Ashton cleared the sleep from his eyes, expecting to see either Ryker or Sorren in front of him since they were the only two who would enter his bedchamber.

Sorren sat on the bed. As the largest of the three brothers, he took up much of it. The ropes beneath Ashton's mattress creaked beneath the added weight.

Sorren's bright blue eyes were clear despite the early hour.

“Keeping her is a mistake.”

He expected as much. Sorren had made his displeasure known when they met last eve.