Page 34 of Lady Tempts a Rogue

“Yes, of course.” She stepped aside, and he brushed past her, inhaling her subtle scent.

Spring flowers and a hint of Castile soap, if he was not mistaken.

After a moment’s hesitation, she softly closed the door.

Probably for the best. Even though this was necessary, others might take exception.

And then there were those two swindlers who might try to take advantage of the tragedy. So far, there had been no further talk of an investment with Devin. Interestingly, he’d come upon them in deep conversation with Mr. Compton in the saloon and on deck.

The second mate did not seem the gullible sort, but mayhap Devin should warn him. Except that any advice he tried to give Compton would be as welcome as a viper bite. Still, Devin could not stay silent and see Compton conned.

“There is a satchel on the desk.” Trinity pointed to the floral tapestry bag beside a short pile of papers. Her cabin was nearly identical to his, except hers was located on the ship’s port side rather than the starboard.

“You could start there,” she said. “I shall go through her trunk. I am not sure what I am looking for, though.”

“All right.” Devin rubbed an eyebrow. “Letters, receipts, anything that would indicate who she expected to meet or where she planned on staying.”

After shoving her hair over her shoulders, she placed her hands on her hips. “She has more luggage and crates in the cargo hold.”

Yet Trinity only had one small trunk.

“Captain Breckett is holding her valuables in his safe, but I assume she would have kept necessary and important papers with her.” Her voice caught, and she swallowed, the slender column of her throat working as she struggled for control.

The darling tried so hard to be brave.

“I ought to have asked her about the details, but I did not want to seem forward or intrusive.” Self-castigation and chagrin thickened her voice. Or mayhap tears caused the huskiness.

On impulse, Devin turned around and gathered her into his embrace.

At first, Trinity stiffened. Then, with a sigh, she sagged into Devin, burying her face in his chest and wrapping her arms around his waist as she wept softly.

“There’s a love,” he murmured into that mass of silken curls. “You will come through this. I promise. I shall help you.”