Scandalous Deception (Russian Connection 1)

“Every country has its share of traitors. The radicals, the power-hungry, and those who are simply mad.” He gave a slow shake of his head. He was honest enough to admit Russia’s numerous faults, but it did nothing to diminish his love for his mother’s homeland. Or his determination to thwart those who would see it destroyed. “Russia, however, is in a state of transition between those who would keep it locked in ancient tradition and those who are determined

to see it forcibly altered to resemble its European neighbors. The state of upheaval offers ample opportunity for treachery.”

She tugged her cloak tighter with a small shiver. “It hardly sounds a comfortable place to choose for your home. Why not remain in England?”

He reached out to flick a finger over her pale cheek. Mon dieu, she was a beautiful creature. Even in the gathering dusk, her hair glowed with an astonishing fire, a handful of curls framing her delicate ivory face.

“Like you, I possess a love for adventure. I could not bear the placid life my brother holds so dear, nor could I spend my days prancing about London,” he murmured, his finger shifting to touch the corner of her full mouth. “Besides, I am half Russian. My mother would be pleased to know that her son is dedicated to the welfare of her homeland.”

Her expression abruptly softened. “That is why you put yourself at risk. For your mother.”

Edmond stiffened, belatedly realizing he had revealed far more than he intended.

Christ. He should hire the woman to become one of his spies. She could seduce the secrets from the most hardened scoundrel.

“Do not endow me with any sense of nobility, ma souris, you will only be disappointed,” he deliberately mocked, ignoring the pang of regret as her expression swiftly hardened and she pulled back from his lingering touch.

“So we are to follow the traitor to Russia and then what?” she demanded, ice coating the words.

He shoved his fingers impatiently through his hair. It was that, or grabbing Brianna and hauling her onto his lap so he could soothe her wounded sensibilities in the only manner he felt comfortable with. In this moment, she would no doubt reward him with nothing more than a slap to the face.

“Eventually he must meet with his associates,” he said, restlessly shifting on the seat. He did not want to be discussing Viktor Kazakov or traitorous plots or even their upcoming journey to Russia. “Once I am convinced that we have identified the majority of the villains, I will turn them over to Alexander Pavlovich and allow him to bring them to justice.”

“Somehow, I doubt it will be quite so simple as you make it sound.”

His lips twisted at her tart tone. “There is no need to be frightened, ma souris. I will keep you safe.”

“I am not frightened, but I am confused.”

“Confused about what?”

“Why do you insist that I accompany you?” she demanded. “I have no experience in hunting traitors.”

His brows arched at her ridiculous question. She could not be that naive.

“I cannot hunt traitors every moment,” he pointed out.

“So I am to be a bit of fun when you have the time to spare? Lovely.”

Edmond stilled, startled by the edge of bitterness in her voice. “Are you suggesting that you desire to be more than my mistress?” He reached out to grasp her chin and forced her to meet his searching gaze. “Brianna?”

“Of course not.”

“Then what do you want from me?”

“Nothing.”

On this occasion, Edmond refused to be put off by her instinctive retreat.

“Liar.” He leaned close enough that her swift, unsteady breaths brushed his cheek. “I have promised you will not be a source of scandal among society. What else could trouble you?”

“I…” Her tongue peeked out to wet her lips, sending a raw flare of heat through his body. “I am simply surprised that you do not already have a mistress awaiting your return to St. Petersburg. Or perhaps you do.”

Edmond was genuinely astonished by her accusation. “You think I would be spending time with another woman when I have you waiting in my bed?”

The green eyes flashed. “It would not be the first occasion.”

“What the devil is that supposed to mean?” he snapped, his fingers tightening on her chin as she attempted to duck her head. “Oh, no, ma souris, I will have an answer.”