“You seem rather agitated this evening,” the vixen said. “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Jealousy exploded in Priscilla’s chest like a firework at Vauxhall. She swallowed down the hard lump in her throat, tried to ignore the thumping of her heart as it echoed in her ears.
Matthew turned to face the fiery-haired woman. “It has been a long night.”
Her hand came to rest on his chest. “You need to relax. You need to let someone soothe away your woes.”
“By someone, I assume you’re offering your services.” Matthew stepped back, and the woman’s hand fell to her side.
Priscilla pursed her lips. The muscles in her windpipe continued to contract until she could hardly breathe.
“We’ve enjoyed each other in the past,” the leech said trailing her fingers across the exposed curve of her breast, “and it seems we find ourselves alone this evening. I know just the thing to occupy your mind and body.”
A host of unladylike curses threatened to fall from Priscilla’s lips. She had a good mind to race downstairs and shove the harlot out of the door. But she would only court ridicule dressed in her prim cotton nightgown with buttons fastened up to her throat. The wife of a gentleman known for scandalous behaviour would have poise, an exotic elegance that made others gape in awe. She certainly wouldn’t behave like an envious harpy and dress like a vestal virgin.
“It may have conveniently slipped your mind, Lucinda,” Matthew said calmly, “but my wife is waiting for me upstairs.” Did his tone carry a hint of disdain for this woman or was it wishful thinking?
The husband stealer chuckled. “The gossips say you married a mouse, not a tiger. She’s not likely to make a scene if you're away from home for a few hours. Besides, she can’t be a complete fool. She must know what she’s let herself in for.”
“You misunderstand me. Or more to the point you misunderstand the importance I place upon my vows.”
“So that’s why you look so terribly miserable.” Lucinda gave a contemptuous snort. “I never took you for the faithful type.”
“That’s because you don’t know the first thing about me.”
“Know you? I’ve committed every part of your body to memory. I know what pleases you, the sounds you make upon your release. I know a virgin bride wouldn’t have the first idea how to satisfy your needs.”
“Your comment only serves to prove my point.”
Priscilla put her hand to her heart. What was he saying? Had he found satisfaction in the marriage bed?
Lucinda raised her chin. “She must surely have the skills of a courtesan if she can keep you from straying. Well, I cannot wait to meet the virtuous creature.”
“I doubt my wife would enjoy the company of dissolute rogues.”
“Why not? She married you.” Lucinda shrugged. “I can be patient. It’s only a matter of time before you tire of her and are on the hunt for something more substantial to appease your appetite.”
Matthew folded his arms across his chest. “Have you not heard? Did the gossips not tell you? We married for love, not out of necessity.”
“Love?” the woman scoffed. “I am sure you are deeply in love — with her dowry.”
Hopkins’ heavy footsteps captured their attention.
“Have John find Miss Pearce a hackney,” Matthew instructed. “It seems she’s leaving alone this evening and I’ll not have her walking the streets.”
“It has already been arranged, sir. There are two cabs waiting outside. If you’d care to follow me, Miss Pearce.”
Lucinda inclined her head. “I shall take your courteousness as a sign of hope, Matthew. Indeed, we can continue our conversation at your next gathering.” She strode towards the door but stopped and glanced back over her shoulder. “I do so love a challenge. Don’t you?”
Hopkins escorted Miss Pearce to her vehicle and returned almost immediately. “There was no need for a hackney. Mr Davis and his companion offered to take Miss Pearce home.”
Matthew sighed. “Wait here and watch the stairs. I’ll take John and Robert and scour the garden.”
“Billings is waiting outside. He said you have an appointment this evening.”
“God, is it that time already.”
Priscilla suppressed a gasp. Was he going out? But it was one o’clock in the morning.