Page 45 of Lady Tempts a Rogue

Once she had put aside her feelings and examined the situation with logic and pragmatism, Trinity knew what to do. Keep her emotions under careful control, do not fall in love with the handsome rogue, and make the best of an awful situation.

“Even then, according to Mrs. Peagilly, I might not be. She’d hired guards to protect us, and now that she is gone…”

A shiver zipped across her shoulders.

Devin gave one stern nod. “The captain said as much too.”

Her stomach pitched to her toes at that affirmation.

She had made the right choice.

Somehow, she would make this union work.

“Just so you know, men hired to protect me, and now you, Trinity, are meeting the ship. I have also retained Mr. Amzil to act as our eyes and ears in Casablanca.”

“I like him.” Trinity did.

She plucked her cloak off the peg beside the door. Legs braced, she draped its woolen length over her shoulders.

“I delayed long enough to write a contract with the terms we discussed.” Devin patted his chest, causing the paper to crackle. “It is brief, as there was not time to write a detailed legal document. I made a copy for you too.”

“Thank you.” Her estimation of Devin rose again.

Amid this gale and likely feeling unwell, he’d had the forethought and consideration to honor his word. Even if he had not followed through with the promise, Trinity would’ve accepted his protection but only as his wife. She was a survivor.

Ideals, principles, and ethics did little to provide security, safety, and protection. Devin could do all three.

“Any luck?” He glanced past her to the table where the satchel still reposed.

He needn’t specify what he meant.

“No.” Trinity shook her head. “I do not think Mrs. Peagilly was accustomed to sharing her plans. Perchance because she had been alone for so long. I did find her itinerary. We were to have gone to Greece next. I have never been.” She shrugged. “In any event. There is nothing among her effects that helps me. Us.”

This was not just about her.

Outside, the storm shrieked her rage, and a shiver of fear assailed Trinity for the first time.

“Only her will, a solicitor’s name, a contact in Casablanca, a bank receipt, and a few other items.”

Making a sound in his throat, Devin swiped a sopping strand off his forehead.

After securing the clasp, she glanced up. “Is the captain in his cabin then?”

“No.” He shook his head. “The storm came upon us unexpectedly and is severe. He cannot spare a minute more.”

“I have never been aboard a ship during a storm.”

Trinity tried to sound brave, but being at the ocean’s mercy proved unnerving, even for someone who’d sailed as much as she had.

For Devin, it must be worse.

Strain emphasized the contours of his face, which held a distinct greenish tint.

“Captain Breckett said to send for him when we were ready.” Concern leached into his voice. “The contract can be witnessed at the same time.”

“Very well.” Trinity staggered, and Devin steadied her. “Given the strength of this storm, we’d best hurry before the captain cannot leave the bridge.”

After blowing out the lamp, Trinity stepped into the passageway, and once she’d secured the cabin door, they made their way toward the captain’s quarters in silence.