Scoundrel's Honor (Russian Connection 3)

“I will soon know if the Katherine Marie has recently docked. Until then I prefer no one know we have arrived in London.”

With an effort, Emma shrugged his hands away and stepped back. How could she think clearly when she was distracted by the temptation of his touch?

“There is no one who could possibly recognize me.”

His jaw tightened, but thankfully he contented himself with folding his arms over his chest and regarding her with a narrow gaze.

“Do not be so certain. I, better than most, know that there are eyes in the most unlikely places.”

Emma didn’t bother arguing. Of course Dimitri would know where danger might be skulking. It was one benefit of being a talented criminal.

“Do you intend to remain on the ship until we find the Katherine Marie?” she asked instead.

“No. I have requested the assistance of an acquaintance. He will be awaiting us once night falls.”

She rolled her eyes at his vague explanation. “Is there any place you do not have acquaintances to offer you assistance?”

“My reach extends far beyond Russia.” His brooding gaze swept down her slender form. “It is something you might wish to keep in mind.”

A cold chill of premonition shivered down her spine. “Is that a threat?”

“I am not stupid either, Emma. No matter how many warnings I might offer, you will happily rush into danger if you believe it will help your sister. I intend to make certain you are not allowed to tumble into disaster.”

The ship swayed as a larger vessel surged past them, sending Emma careening into Dimitri’s waiting arms. For a moment she was lost in the heat and scent of the man who had taught her the meaning of ecstasy. Her mind might have decided that Dimitri was no longer her lover, but her body was eager to respond to the feel of his hard muscles pressed tight against her.

She sucked in a shocked breath as she hastily pushed away from his clinging hold. What was the matter with her? Was she truly so weak?

Grasping the rail to keep her balance, Emma glared at the man who was now smiling in smug satisfaction.

“On how many occasions must I remind you that you are not my keeper?” she said tartly. “If I wish to tumble into disas

ter then it is none of your concern.”

He reached to cup her cheek in his hand, the golden eyes shimmering with a sinful temptation.

“As your lover it is my right to protect you. Even from your own stubborn nature.”

“Dimitri, I am not, nor will I ever be a helpless female who must depend upon you to decide what is best. And you are not my lover.”

“No?”

“No.”

His lips twitched. “Then I imagined the nights you spent in my arms? And the taste of your sweet lips? And your soft moans when I enter you—”

Without thought she reached up to cover his mouth with her hand, her cheeks hot with embarrassment.

“Shh.” Her gaze darted about to ensure the crew were scurrying about their duties. “Someone might hear you.”

He stepped closer, his head lowering to whisper directly into her ear.

“Do not ever deny I am your lover.”

She shivered, clenching her hands against the urge to tug the leather cord that held his hair in a tidy queue and run her fingers through the satin darkness.

“Dimitri, please,” she husked. “What happened between us is a madness that must end.”

His thumb gently caressed the chilled skin of her cheek. “It is too late for regrets.”