Ecstasy (Notorious 4)

When she reached Hyde Park, however, there was no sign of Dare, so she enjoyed an easy gallop along Rotten Row. It was perhaps a half hour later when she spied the marquess riding toward her. She barely waited for his charming greeting before she brought up the matter of her former betrothed’s possible vindictiveness.

To Raven’s dismay, Dare only confirmed her fears.

“Yes, I’m afraid Halford has been disparaging your husband’s club. He has persuaded a number of his acquaintances to shun it, claiming the Golden Fleece is living up to its name-fleecing its customers.”

“Does he have the slightest bit of proof?”

Dare gave her an arch look. “Proof isn’t necessary to paint a man as dishonorable. The mere accusation from someone of influence can be just as lethal. I wouldn’t be surprised if Halford has never stepped foot inside the Fleece.”

Raven frowned in dismay. “Surely something can be done to stop him.”

“Well, I can help Lasseter make up for lost business by patronizing his hell more often. And I could ensure that my fellow Hellfire League members do the same.”

“Would you, Dare, please?”

“Of course. But no amount of patronage can repair a club’s tarnished reputation. It’s much like a lady’s good name. Once lost, it is almost impossible to regain.” Dare pursed his sensual lips thoughtfully. “It would no doubt help if Lasseter made an effort to become better known to his more celebrated clientele-give them the opportunity to size up his honor and character. As it stands now, he’s merely a notorious enigma.”

“But how is that to be accomplished?”

“He could start by getting about in society more. I would be perfectly happy to sponsor him, as I’m sure would Lucian, but your husband must be willing to take part.”

“I don’t think he would,” Raven said ruefully. “He despises society.”

“Even to save his club?”

“I don’t know. I will have to ask him.”

She visited the club that afternoon but was informed by the hulking doorman that Mr. Lasseter was away. Emma Walsh, however, came down the stairs at just that moment and greeted Raven with a graciousness that seemed unfeigned.

Raven felt herself flush with embarrassment. She had not seen the beautiful hostess since her abduction and wasn’t quite certain how to act.

But Emma seemed determined to put her at ease. “Kell is at a fencing match, but he should return within the hour. Would you care to wait for him?”

Absurdly, it irked Raven that she knew less about her husband’s whereabouts than this woman did. Surprised by the invitation, though, she accepted readily. When Emma had directed the doorman to have a tea tray sent into the bookroom, Raven surrendered her cloak and followed the hostess, gazing about her covertly.

Everywhere she looked, she saw evidence of tasteful richness: the sheen of waxed wood, the sparkle of crystal chandeliers, the sumptuousness of velvet and brocade furnishings.

Emma evidently noticed her interested glances. “Have you ever seen the inner workings of a gaming club?”

“No, but I admit to a vast curiosity.”

“After tea I would be happy to show you about if you wish.”

“I would like that very much.”

“This is the most comfortable room in the place,” Emma said, leading Raven into the library. “It is designed to give the club an air of refinement and remind our patrons of their libraries at home. Here they may enjoy a cheroot or a short respite from the gaming tables.”

When they were seated around the tea table, Emma gave her an assessing glance. “Perhaps you might be interested to know that Sean has left for an extended stay in Ireland.”

Raven drew a hopeful breath. “Truly? He is gone?”

“Yes. Kell persuaded him to go.”

“I wonder how he accomplished that?”

“I am not quite certain, but Kell is the only one who can influence Sean when he turns wild. They are very close, even for brothers. I expect you must be relieved.”

Pressing a hand to her temple, Raven managed a smile. “You cannot imagine how much.”