Page 32 of Seduction of a Widow

Millie hurried toward the door.

“Millie,” Leslie called.

The maid halted and faced her.

“I know I can count on you to be silent.”

Millie flicked a glance at Evan, then nodded.

“You may go,” Leslie told her.

She left, and Evan said, “She will never remain silent.”

“I know.”

Evan knelt at the tub as she opened the envelope, pulled out the card, and read,

You might be interested to know that a certain young man has issued a challenge that will have him rising at dawn.

A Friend.

Leslie stared. Then she understood.

“Is something amiss?” Evan asked.

She lifted her eyes to his face. “You tell me.” She handed him the note.

***

Evan took the note and read it. Just as he’d suspected. Someone had decided to stir the pot.

He sighed, then met Leslie’s gaze. “I wondered how long it would take for someone to inform you of the duel. Have you any idea who sent the note?”

“It matters not who sent the note. Who have you challenged?”

“That matters not,” he replied.

Leslie flattened her hands on his chest and shoved. He fell onto his backside as she surged to her feet. Water cascaded down her gloriously naked body. God help him, the women truly was a goddess. Leslie snorted—clearly reading his mind—and reached for the folded towel lying on the table. Evan pushed to his feet and swept her into his arms.

She cried out. “You are getting water all over the carpet.”

“The water will dry.” He kissed her soundly.

She glared. “Have you lost your senses?”

“Aye.”

Her eyes narrowed. “I am referring to the duel.”

“I suppose it will not ease your mind if I tell you this is not my first duel?”

“Do not patronize me.”

He laughed and hugged her close. “I am not patronizing you, love.”

She wiggled in his hold. “Do not think that you can assuage my anger with that smile. I am not so easily moved.”

“Of course not.” He lowered his head and nibbled her ear.