At dinner, Jace Elliott went over the hunting and gun control laws mandated by the Colonial Office. for this English protectorate. He continued with the regulations issued by the Imperial British East Africa Company under the title of “Sporting Licences” for a fee of twenty-five pounds which was valid for up to twelve months. He related the 1886 “Schedule of Duties” for controlled items and he stressed the use of quinine to prevent malaria and the danger of drinking unboiled water.
Jace told them his head man—Wanjohi, called “Johi”—was gathering supplies and hiring bearers. When all questions were asked and answered, Jace excused himself, explaining he needed a good night’s sleep because he had plenty of tasks to complete before they left Mombasa on the twentieth. Today was April seventeenth.
Chad grinned and said, “That wasn’t a strain at all. It looks as if Jace and I will get along fine. Anyone dissatisfied with him?”
All four shook their heads.
“I told him about the supplies we brought along,” Chad then said. “He’s to check them out tomorrow. You women decide on what you need in the jungle, then have the rest stored in our supply room. We’ll pick them up as we’re leaving town. I hope you’re all ready and eager to have fun, because I am. I can’t wait to get into that jungle.”
“Me, too, Chad,” Louisa concurred.
Cynthia looked as if she was having anything but fun. Reid acted as if the safari didn’t matter one way or the otherto him. The blonde rose from her chair and said, “If you don’t mind, I’ll read a while and turn. in. It’s late and I’m tired.”
In her suite, Leigh sat on the sofa in deep thought. She tossed her tawny locks over its back and leaned her head against the soft surface. Her dark-blue eyes stared into space. Jace and Chad’s behavior had her confused. She wanted to know what had started the vengeful war between old friends. She knew that Jace had to be wrong about her grandfather and Chad. During the safari, Jace would grasp his error. Afterward, surely he would focus on unmasking the real culprit, and she would help him. If he could get his dark past behind him, perhaps he would seek a bright future with her. He had admitted he was drawn to her, so she had to increase that pull.
Yet all evening Jace had treated her as a client, nothing more. He had hardly glanced at or spoken to her. But, she decided, that could have been a pretense for the others. Their bet hadn’t been mentioned, and Leigh wondered if the other women and Reid knew about the so-called thousand pound one.
The safari would get underway in three days, and her wager with Jace would begin. Despite their bargain, this afternoon he had left her side without making any attempt to embrace, kiss, or seduce her. Jace Elliott had her totally baffled and frustrated.
Leigh jumped up and paced the room. She had learned a great deal about the enticing man since meeting him. She was glad Jace had been open about a few matters. And she had learned more about herself and her emotions. She loved being with him. She felt good in his company. She believed he was innocent, that he was a unique person. She liked and respected him. She was experiencing more than the budding of friendship. She desired him. She was falling in love with that green-eyed seductor.
Leigh was anxious to see what the next day and the safari would bring. Louisa had asked Leigh to give her and Chad time alone, and Leigh had agreed. She had told the redhead she was going to see the old Portuguese fort. Louisa had hugged her and thanked her.
Leigh had been awakened early that morning, as she had each day. While darkness was deserting the foreign land, she had heard the echoing calls of the muezzin from the small towers attached to mosques summoning the faithful Moslems to prayer. It was a custom unchanged since the Islamic traders had first settled in this land. She had listened- to the melodious calls of the “Crier” from the minarets, then dozed for a time. Later, she had risen, dressed, and eaten breakfast alone.
She checked her string purse to make certain her derringer was inside and loaded. She sneaked from the hotel and hired a rickshaw to take her to the old fort. As Leigh was rushed along, she quickly glanced at the scenery much as she had done on her arrival, noticing the same sights, smells, activities, and sounds. When the driver halted, she paid him and asked him to return in an hour to fetch her. Fort Jesus, the sixteenth-century fortress, was located near the natural harbor where her ship had docked to unload its passengers and cargo. It was spread over a large area, and a stone wall encompassed the. fortress, other buildings, and the grounds. The fort was unlocked, but no visitors and natives were around today. In size, shape, and appearance, the main structure reminded her of an English castle. The yard was enormous and, despite their age, most buildings were in excellent condition. Tropical trees and vegetation had been allowed to remain intact here and there, giving the fort a mysterious and sultry aura.
Leigh tried to imagine it in olden times—noisy and filled with soldiers, weapons, and supplies. She tried to envision the fierce struggles that had taken place here for control of this crucial seaport. It must have been a terrible loss for the Portuguese.
She strolled about the area, always keeping a tight grip on her purse. Leigh felt safe venturing out alone, but she still did not drop her guard for an instant. Afterward, she planned to visit the bazaar before returning to the hotel. That should give Louisa enough time alone with Chad. Perhaps Jace would return from his business dealings by tea time and they could get together again.
The sun Was past its noon level, and her early-fed stomach told her it was nearing mealtime. Her driver was to return at twelve-thirty to fetch her, so it wouldn’t be long now.
A man in Arab garb raced to her. Seizing her hand and pulling on it, he entreated, “Bibi, memsa-hib, come! Boy hurt. Need help. Mbeia sana, very bad. Please to come help. My son fall, dying.”
Leigh hurried out of the fort with the anxious man, along its right side, and down a path toward the water’s edge. In the distance, she saw a dhow bobbing on the liquid blue surface where sunlight dazzled, then a still body near a large rock. It looked as if the boy had fallen from it, perhaps while playing. His garment was twisted about him. His arms and legs were positioned unnaturally. Leigh’s feet slipped and slid as she followed the nervous man to see if she could give aid.
Before reaching the victim, Leigh noticed the prone figure was too large for a boy and his position was odd, as if skillfully arranged. Her guard lifted with speed. As the man in front of her was turning, she fumbled with her purse-to loosen its string. She yanked the derringer from inside and pointed it at the deceitful man. She saw how his dark eyes had narrowed and chilled; their gaze and his expression were evil. She felt cold menace in the hot air.
When he lunged for her armed hand, she fired. The jolted weapon sent a bullet into his thigh. He staggered and looked shocked. The prone man sprang from his position and headed their way.
Panic filled her. Leigh backed up and warned, “Stay back or the next shot will be in your chest.” She knew she only had one bullet left, but she hoped these foreign men weren’t familiar with this type of gun. Obviously she was right, because they halted, then glanced at each other as if plotting their strategy.
From atop the path near the fort corner, Leigh heard a voice. “Leigh, are you all right?” Jace Elliott called out. “I’m coming.” He moved as quickly as the terrain allowed, shouting, “Stay calm. I’ll be there in a minute.”
The two men exchanged words in their language. The second one helped the first—blood flowing down his injured leg—to rush toward their waiting boat. He shoved it into the water, and off the dhow went the moment wind filled its sail. Leigh didn’t fire at them again; she could not kill a man—even an attacker—in cold blood.
Jace reached her, eyed the gun and vanishing boat, then asked, “What happened? What are you doing here alone?”
Apparently he had put the clues together rapidly and accurately. She explained to the breathless man what had happened. A scowl lined his handsome face. “Don’t scold me again, Sir Lancelot,” she teased to lighten the situation. “Ever since that night in the London alley, I carry my trusty derringer with me for protection. My uncle in Texas gave it to me, and it works perfectly. What are you doing here, Mr. Elliott?”
“I was finishing some business with a man nearby. I saw you leaving the fort with a strange man. I figured something was up. When I heard that shot … You could have been killed or abducted.”
Leigh savored the worried look on his face. “But I wasn’t. I can take care of myself, most of the time.”
“I can see that,” he agreed, still frowning. “You shouldn’t go out alone, Leigh. The Sultan of Zanzibar probably heard there was a beautiful woman with golden hair here and sent his men to capture her for his harem,” he jested, planning to check into the matter.
“You should tell him I would make a terrible slave. I’m willful and stubborn, according to some people I know.”
“This isn’t a joke, Leigh,” he said in a serious tone.
“I know, but it’s over now. It’s nice to know my Sir Lancelot is always around when I’m in danger. How is that so, Jace?”
Jace caught the provocative tone in her voice. “Probably because you’re always into mischief. You’re a very desirable woman, so men everywhere will be after you, including me. You realize this means you owe me an extra night with you. According to rule two, if you get yourself into danger or trouble, I get an extra reward. I wonder …” he murmured huskily. “Are danger and trouble the same or do I earn two extra nights for you getting into both?”
“You are a greedy rogue, Jace Elliott. We aren’t on safari yet, so this incident doesn’t count. Besides, I solved it, remember? Did you connive with those men to help me lose my bet with you?”
Making a X over his chest, he vowed, “I cross my heart those men don’t work for me and never have. I’ll get the Colonial Office to investigate the matter. We can’t have ruffians attacking our visitors and scaring them away from our beautiful land. This is all your fault for going out alone. Don’t do it again,” he cautioned.
“I’ll be good, my legendary guide,” she teased. “Can I ask you a question that you’ll promise to answer honestly?”
“Such as?” he replied, his brow lifting inquisitively.
“Did you pay Jim Hanes to fake an accident so you could replace him?” she inquired, as they headed up the hill.
Jace didn’t halt his step. “Right to the heart of a matter, eh? No, Miss Webster, I had nothing to do with Jim’s being unable to guide your party. If anyone did, point your finger at Chad.”
“Can I ask another question?” she continued, ignoring his charge.
“Go ahead,” he remarked, halting to lock his gaze to hers.
“How could you get a safari together so quickly?”
He chuckled. “I started Johi working out the details the minute I received Chad’s message on Friday. I handle lots of safaris, so I’m well trained and prepared. I never intended to refuse his job, but I wanted it to look as if I needed plenty of persuasion. I didn’t want him to realize how eager I was to spend so much time with his ward. Does it surprise you that I would accept his curious offer just to be near you?”
That wasn’t the expected response. “Yes, I was surprised,” she informed him, “No, shocked. Why would you go to work for an enemy? You don’t appear a man to put himself into a disagreeable situation without a good reason.”
He grinned. “I have a good reason, an excellent one.”
“Like what?” she pressed.
Tapping the tip of her nose with his finger, he said, “You.”
“I doubt I’m the reason—or the only one, at least.” Leigh refuted. “Why won’t you tell me about the trouble between you and Chad?”
“Haven’t you heard the old saying, ‘Let old wounds heal?’ If you pick at them, they fester again. Chad and I have made a truce, so what difference does it make?” He started moving again.
“Is that a polite way of saying it’s none of my business?”
“You’re a smart woman,” he replied. When she frowned, he added, “I promise I’ll tell you everything after the safari.”
“Won’t it be too late by then?” she parried.
“Too late for what, Leigh?” he countered, halting once more.
She didn’t stop. As she moved past him, she tossed over her shoulder, “To be saved from a mysterious rogue like you, of course.”
“Do you want to be spared such a … an adventure?”
“I haven’t decided,” she admitted with frankness.
At the corner of the fortress, he asked, “How long have you known Chad?”
Their gazes fused. “Since I was fifteen. I met him when I visited my grandparents in ‘90. Why?”
“How well do you know him?”
She watched his alert gaze roam her face for clues. “Not well at all. I spent time with him on my last visit. And, after I arrived in London in February, we spent every day and evening together getting acquainted. Too, I had frequent letters from my grandparents about him. I am familiar with his reputation with the ladies, if that’s what you’re referring to, Jace. If you know him, why ask me about him?”
Jace leaned his back against the stone wall that surrounded the old Portuguese fortress. “He’s changed since our old days together.”
Although she hadn’t known the old Chad, to keep Jace talking, she questioned, “Are you sure?”
“Yes.” He straightened to depart, ending the conversation.
Leigh caught his arm to stop him. “Wait, Jace; we aren’t finished. What evidence does the law have against you?” Noting his surprised look, she continued. “Please, just pamper me with an answer. It will help me understand both of you to know the truth.”
His gaze slipped over her. She appeared sincere. He inhaled deeply and replied in a sketchy manner. “Two witnesses who claim my father was at the crime scene. A knife with his initials. A lantern from Elliott’s of London used to start the fire. Papers in his desk tying him and me to Irish rebels. He and Stokely were political rivals.”
“But how can they tie you to those crimes?” she asked.
“Are you forgetting about the note from my father implicating me? They proved it was his handwriting, and they knew I was in town. I don’t have an alibi; I was asleep in Alfred’s warehouse, getting ready to work my way home on one of his ships to save money. I sailed the next dawn without knowing what had taken place just miles from the wharf. I had been visiting my father. That’s when I learned about his loan from Webster. I told him I’d pay it off when my crop came in. It didn’t; coffee rust destroyed it. Lordy, I can still remember the day I sighted those yellowish, oily spots on the leaves. By then, I’d studied and learned enough to know what had to be done: all bushes had to be chopped down and burned to prevent its spread. That created a total loss of my investment, and years of labor and waiting.”
He stretched his suddenly weary body. “Fortunately, I had enough money left to replant the next spring; young shrubs have to be put in the ground before the rainy season. That allows them to sprout and get strong enough to endure the dry season. As soon as I burned the diseased crop, I sailed for London in December to break the bad news to Father. I docked to learn Father was accused of arson and murder, had committed suicide, and had implicated me.”
His voice was bitter as he continued. “Chad was the one to expose my dilemma to me. I knew from the way he was gloating that I was in deep trouble. I didn’t hang around to be questioned and arrested; the evidence was too cunning and damaging to refute from jail, and I didn’t know what else they had on me. I returned to Africa and threw myself into saving my plantation. I knew I had to let things cool down before I could begin my own investigation. Since a coffee crop takes three to four years between planting and harvesting, all I had was time on my hands and frustration to burn off. Once a crop’s in the ground, its care is limited to the trimming required to give bushes a robust, balanced framework and to stimulate growth. The coffee cherries should be ready next year, if another disaster doesn’t strike. In this business, disease, rainfall, and temperature control your success.”
Leigh realized he was rambling, but she let him talk as he pleased. “How can you stay away from your crop so long?”
“I have an excellent overseer named Kambu, and the Kikuyu village nearby furnishes me with plenty of good workers. To support myself, I work as a safari guide for rich and bored Englishmen. But I got tired of feeling helpless and risked a trip to London. Satisfied?”
“Nope. How did you get to Africa? Why did you stay here?”
He smiled. “I love this land; it’s wild and beautiful, and full of promise and excitement. I hate being away from it very long. After I finished school in ‘82, I joined the Royal Navy and sailed the world over. When I had enough of their tight rules, I took off for bluer seas, until Africa caught my eye. I lived and worked in the southern area for a while. Then, I became a member of the Uganda Railroad expedition. It was on that trip that I lost my heart and soul to this land. I learned my way around while doing lots of different jobs.”
“Why did you go into the coffee business?”
“I wanted to succeed on my own, not live off an inheritance, and I don’t like the textile business. In ‘91 I happened upon an excellent deal with an Englishman who wanted ‘out of this damn jungle and back into civilization.’ I used the money I’d earned to purchase his home, land, and crop. It’s near Kiambu, northwest of Nairobi, near the rail line they’re building. That’ll be a big help with shipments and save me lots of work and time. Satisfied now?” he laughingly questioned.
Leigh grinned and remarked, “A little.”
“Tell me about yourself. Start with how you got your name.”
“Leigh was my mother’s maiden name. Laura was her mother.”
“That’s mighty stingy information. What have you been doing in London? Where are you from? Tell me all about yourself.”
Leigh realized he wanted to change the subject and decided to go along with him. She went over her history, then quipped, “Satisfied?”
With a broad grin, he murmured, “A little.”
“Tell me more about yourself, Jace. And tell me why,” she probed, “are you and he enemies now?”
“I told you that’s a taboo subject for now. Ask me again in two months.”
“That isn’t fair.”
“Life never is, Miss Webster. Who knew you were coming here?”
“Only one person. No, two: Louisa and the rickshaw driver.” Leigh hadn’t forgotten that Louisa had sent the note in London that had resulted in her attack. Her suspicions returned.
“Chad’s … sweetheart?”
She tried to sound light when she said, “That’s right. She wanted time alone with him, so I gave it to her. Why?”
Jace sensed how much the redhead wanted his enemy. “If this wasn’t a chance attack, somebody planned it,” he hinted.
Leigh reasoned aloud, “Louisa didn’t. She couldn’t have. She doesn’t know anyone here, and she only learned about my visit last night. There was no time for a plot, Mr. Elliott.”
Her mention of a ruse alerted Jace. He worried that the redhead had told Chad about Leigh’s plans today and that his foe had plotted this perilous mischief. Or, Louisa could be Chad’s accomplice in a plot against Leigh. But that didn’t make sense, if Chad truly wanted to win and wed this golden creature. Under English law, if anything happened to Leigh, Fiona—and eventually Chad—would inherit the Webster empire. So, if Chad couldn’t win or didn’t want to wed Leigh … That thought sent Jace’s mind to reasoning frantically. Perhaps Chad needed someone to frame or a logical explanation for the timing of Leigh’s death—so close to William’s. It didn’t make sense for Chad to risk losing her to him. Yet that wager had been created to provoke his interest. He wanted more facts; but he held silent for now.
Leigh intruded on his silent fears. “If you don’t mind, please don’t tell the others about this trouble,” she coaxed.
“Don’t want to worry or alarm them?” When she nodded, he asked, “What is my silence worth?”
“Do you always expect payment for everything?” she quipped.
“Why not? That’s why I took this job.”
“I thought you took it to please and pursue me,” she jested.
“You did, did you?” he mirthfully retorted. “You’re right. There are plenty of other safaris.”
Jace’s engaging grin had a weakening effect on her. The tropical sun caused his eyes to squint, and it danced in his windblown hair. He was too tempting. When he made no attempt to kiss her or to even move closer, she said, “I should be getting back to the hotel. I told my driver to return at twelve-thirty. He’s probably come and gone by now. Care to find me another carriage, Sir Lancelot?”
“Why don’t I see you back? I am responsible for you,” he murmured.
“Only in the jungle, my alert guide. But thanks.”
At the hotel, Leigh was surprised to discover Louisa had moved into a private room on her floor. Passing the redhead in the hallway, the woman told the blonde she wasn’t feeling well due to her monthly flow and that she didn’t want to disturb Reid and Cynthia. Leigh didn’t believe her, but she said nothing to challenge her.
“Why did Chad want you to change rooms?” Cynthia asked.
“He wants me to go after Jace to help him win a bet.” Louisa explained. “He was a fool to reveal it to me, because now I know he’s serious about winning his little ward. He pretended their bargain was a joke when he asked for my help, but I know better. He didn’t make that damned wager just to provoke Jace into coming to work for him. Chad Hamilton would never risk losing that much money to any man. I’m supposed to make certain Leigh doesn’t fall under Jace’s spell. Chad said that if Leigh is convinced there’s something between me and Jace, she won’t give our guide a second look.”
“As soon as I have my traitorous lover believing I’m doing everything I can to aid him,” Louisa spouted with a sneer, “I’ll make certain Leigh won’t turn to Chad and tempt him even more before I can get rid of her. But, for now, I have to distract Jace, just like Chad wants me to do. Besides, that handsome devil keeps thwarting my plans for little Leigh, damn him! When I met that Arab, I had to pay him double, because his friend was wounded and he threatened to expose me. She actually shot one of them before Jace showed up again to help her. I would have stolen her gun, but that might have aroused her suspicion before she left the hotel. I was hoping to be finished with her and return home. That hot jungle doesn’t tempt me at all, not with Chad rutting for her. If I don’t break Jace’s concentration, I’ll never get rid of Leigh and win Chad. Besides, Jace Elliott is up to something. I can feel it. I think he wants Leigh, too.”
“I hate Chad for using you this way Louisa. You think Jace will respond to your note to come here tonight?”
“What man wouldn’t enjoy a taste of me?” the redhead teased. “Do me a favor, Cynthia; find out why Jace and Chad are enemies. I’m sure Reid knows. Wheedle that information from him. I don’t like mysteries.”
“Anything for you, love,” the brunette promised, alarmed over this new obstacle to their plans.
“Since Jace is wanted by the, law and he lost everything to the Websters, it will be easy to frame him for Leigh’s death. We have to be more careful than ever, Cynthia. Chad craves Leigh, so we have to make Jace look guilty in his eyes, too. Once Leigh is gone, Chad will settle for me. Then, I’ll take everything and destroy him. Damn the bastard! He doesn’t have me fooled. Still, it will be nice to get Jace Elliott beneath me before he dies.”
There was a knock at Leigh’s door. She was annoyed for she had sent a note to Chad explaining she wouldn’t be joining the group for dinner because she was tired and turning in early with a book. If it was her guardian, she would get rid of him quickly. She was moody tonight. Jace hadn’t contacted her all afternoon, had dropped her off like baggage after their misadventure. As for the curious exchange between Louisa and Chad, that had her worried. If Chad lost interest in Louisa before the safari … “Yes?” she hinted as she opened the door.
Jace swept past her with a tray of fragrant food. Leigh whirled and stared at him. He placed it on a table and grinned at her. She closed and locked the door, then went forward to join him. “What is this?” she questioned, glancing from him to the food and back again.
“You are hungry, aren’t you? You didn’t join us and the man downstairs told me you hadn’t ordered dinner yet. Why?”
Leigh was perplexed. “Frankly, Mr. Elliott, I wasn’t in the mood to be with anyone tonight. This is very kind of you, but—”
“But what?” he interrupted.
“I wanted to be alone. I have some thinking to do.”
“About what?” he probed as he arranged the table.
Leigh joined him and responded, “About many things.”
“Such as,” he continued in a persistent manner.
“Such as about our brazen guide,” she retorted.
Jace halted his work to look at her. She was attired in a fetching gown and wrapper of sapphire silk. He halted himself from asking, out of jealousy, if Chad had given it to her. “Why would you possibly want to think about me?” he jested. “I’m dull.”
“You are anything but dull, Mr. Elliott.”
“Why is it you get formal with me when I make you nervous?”
“I hadn’t noticed,” she said, taking the chair he pulled out for her. “I’m starved.”
He leaned over her shoulder and asked, “Then why didn’t you come downstairs for dinner?”
She tried to ignore his warm breath on her cheek. He smelled of heady spices, and she tingled all over. She was vexed with this tantalizing man who tempted but didn’t give. “I didn’t realize I was so hungry. This is wonderful. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” He leaned against the wall nearby. Her tawny locks flowed down her back, and the color of her garments intensified the blue of her eyes. Her skin looked so soft, and he yearned to caress it.
“Are you planning to stare at me while I devour my food?”
“Naturally. I have to make certain you eat every bite to keep up your strength, and I love watching you do anything.”
After Leigh forced herself to eat most of the delicious meal, she hinted, “I finished, sir, so your task is done.”
“Is it?” he questioned with an evocative look.
“Did we have other business to discuss?”
“What did you expect after this alluring note?” Jace teased.
The blue-eyed blonde looked at the paper he was waving beneath his nose. She eyed his smug grin, twinkling eyes, and merry expression. “How could I resist such an intoxicating summons?” Without releasing her captive gaze, he repeated its startling message from memory. She listened as he repeated its startling message from memory. “ ‘Come to my suite late tonight. We’ll go over old times and make new ones. Tell no one. I’m eager to see you.’ It’s signed with a flowing L. I’m glad to see you’ve become the aggressive predator so I can be the helpless quarry for a change.”
Leigh jumped up and snatched the note from his hand. He chuckled as she stared at it with wide eyes and parted lips. He knew it was from Louisa Jennings, but it suited his needs.
Leigh was jealous and angry. “I didn’t write this nonsense! This is Louisa’s handwriting. I recognize it from the sneaky message she sent that night we met on the dock. I know she wrote that note because I overheard her say so. How dare you think I would-”
“I didn’t,” he injected, halting her revealing outburst.
“But you said …” She stopped and stared at him.
He chuckled and shrugged. “It was a good way to see you privately, woman. If Chad demands satisfaction, I can show him this note and explain how my error was natural since I never expected his lover to send for me. I have to use every trick I know to entice you.”
Leigh was perturbed. “I didn’t know you and Louisa were old friends.”
“We aren’t. She chased me every time I went home for a visit, but I never let her catch me.” He caressed Leigh’s flushed cheek and revealed, “You should be aware of my taste in women by now.”
“You and Louisa never …” Leigh blushed and turned aside.
Jace captured her arms and prevented her from leaving. “No, Leigh, I’ve never had anything to do with that woman and I never will. My only interest is you.”
“Then why did she send you this seductive note?”
“Tell me,” he coaxed. “What does Chad hope to gain by throwing both of you at me? Am I supposed to go after his mistress or his ward?”
“What does that mean?” she demanded.
“It’s supposed to get you seeing clearly, Leigh. You’re blind to him. An old enemy comes here and makes me an offer I can’t refuse. He dangles his irresistible ward before me when he wants her like crazy himself. He orders his lover to seduce me. What am I supposed to think?”
Exasperated, she snapped, “How should I know? I don’t understand any of this. Are you after me to spite Grandfather and Chad?”
“I swear that isn’t true, Leigh.” He pulled her into his arms and murmured, “A woman as beautiful and desirable and wealthy as you will have men chasing her all the time. I know this must sound like a seductive ploy, and you might not believe me, but I want you for no other reason than you enslave me. I’ve never wanted any woman like I crave you. When I’m cleared, I’ll want more than a night or two from you, much more, Leigh.”
She gazed into his eyes, lost in that jungle-green terrain. His flowing voice washed over her like an inviting ocean. His nearness and touch were more intoxicating than aged brandy. His words ensnared her. Impulsively, she revealed, “One minute you act so loving; the next, you treat me indifferently. It’s like you’re playing with me, tempting me and intriguing me, then ignoring me. Surely you’ve had enough experience to know I feel the same way, Jace, and you can have me without all these exasperating games.”
His fingers roamed her flushed cheek and parted lips. “If that’s true, Leigh, then no more games. I’m sorry I made it look that way to you. I was only trying to move slowly and carefully to keep from scaring you. It’s been damned hard, but I wanted to give you time to get to know me, to like me. I know you’re innocent, and I know you’re attracted to me, but that doesn’t give me the right to take unfair advantage of you.”
“How can you take advantage of me if I’m willing?”
“People do things in the heat of passion that they regret later. I don’t want you to ever regret anything you do with me. I wanted us to become friends first, then hopefully a lot more to each other as time passes. With these criminal charges hanging over my head and my family name blackened, I have nothing to offer you but a brief time with me. I can’t return to England with you, and I can’t ask you to permanently exile yourself with a wanted man. I can’t even allow you to let people discover our feelings and ruin your reputation. If you doubt me, my feelings, or my intentions—it’s wrong for anything this important to happen between us. You have to be sure of me and yourself. Once we accept each other, there’s no turning back.”
Leigh understood that this proud man wouldn’t consider marriage until he was exonerated. That might never happen, and she had to have him. “I am sure of myself, Jace, and now I’m sure of you.”
“Think it over Leigh, carefully and completely.”
Leigh was glad he was being cautious and frank. She lifted her hands and grasped his face between them. Rising on her tiptoes as she pulled his head downward, she murmured, “I have, Jace, many times. Now if you don’t kiss me, I’m going to scream or expire.”
Leigh sealed her lips to his, as Jace embraced her. His mouth feasted at hers, just as hers was greedily devouring his. They pressed tightly together and savored this heady moment that both had long awaited and craved.
Jace wanted to prevent as much embarrassment and pain, and to give as much pleasure as possible this first time. He had to control his own desires, and sate them only after she claimed her own. Yet he discovered mastery over his body difficult. She was so warm and eager and responsive. He had dreamed of this night many times, but hadn’t expected it to come so quickly or easily. At last he knew he was the man she wanted, and no other.
Leigh felt more alive in his arms than she had in her lifetime. Never had a man affected her this way. She wanted his kisses, embraces, his touch, and all of him. Her body felt as hot as an iron in a branding fire, and she wanted his possessive mark upon her body and life. She yearned for them to become as one, tonight and forever. Even if their affair was dangerous, she had to taste his sweet passions.
Still kissing her, Jace lifted her and carried her into the adjoining room. The covers were already tossed aside. The lamp was burning low and casting a soft glow in the room and on the golden beauty in his arms. He eased her feet to the floor. Deftly he unfastened her wrapper and let it slide to her ankles. Then he unbuttoned her gown and let it do the same. As his mouth roved her face, ears, hair, and neck before locking with hers once more, he removed his shirt and tossed it aside.
Their bare flesh met, when he embraced her. Leigh trembled at the glorious sensation, and Jace shuddered from the way her breasts felt against his chest. Her fingers trailed over his neck and shoulders, and she admired the strength and soft firmness of them. Jace’s hands roamed her silky back and teased down her spine.
He guided her to the bed and kissed her eyes shut while he removed his shoes and pants. He didn’t want to panic her with the sight of his nakedness. Jace joined her on the bed, savoring the sight of her. With great care and skill, his hands traveled over her body, exploring it and mapping it as he had done to this territory. She was so soft and supple, he couldn’t wait to taste every inch of her sweet flesh. Her tawny mane spread over the pillow and shone in the lamplight. He stroked it and buried his fingers in it. She didn’t seem afraid, but he knew she must be nervous. He moved slowly, gently, not wanting to make any mistakes with this special woman.
Leigh was consumed by desire. She couldn’t seem to get him close enough to please her. His lips and hands worked magic on her, and she felt enchanted. Surely she could lie here with him like this forever. Her breasts were firm, and their peaks hard. She quivered each time his fingers or lips touched them. It created such a tormentingly sweet sensation. When his hand ventured lower, she tensed at the shocking ecstasy he created. A moan escaped her lips. Leigh’s hands wandered over his bronzed back, up his neck, into his mussed brown hair, and across his powerful shoulders. “Oh, Jace,” she murmured and clung to him.
“Just relax and let nature do all the work for you,” he whispered into her ear, his warm breath making her tremble. “It’ll be uncomfortable for a moment, love, but I’ll try not to hurt you.” As Jace moved atop her and gently spread her thighs, he kept talking to calm her. “Ever since I saw you that night in London, I’ve been crazy to have you. When you responded to me, I thought I’d go mad if this didn’t happen soon.” His lips labored lovingly at hers. He kissed her eyes, the tip of her nose, and every inch of her face. His teeth nibbled at her ear, and his hands caressed her breasts.
Leigh was nearly mindless with the aching need that stormed her body without mercy. “Please, Jace,” she urged him to continue.
His mouth captured hers and he kissed her feverishly as his manhood tenderly sought new and rapturous surroundings. He hesitated a while to allow her to adjust to these new sensations. His hands clasped her face between them and his mouth meshed with hers. She was embracing him and responding urgently, so he realized the discomfort had passed. He moved with leisure and caution. He felt her open further to him. Once more she was offering herself freely, totally, and ardently.
Leigh was delighted it hadn’t hurt as she had expected. Perhaps that was because Jace was so tender. She wasn’t totally ignorant about sex and men. She had overheard information, and her aunt Jenna had told her many things during long and private talks. Maybe the difference between gossipy horrid tales and her blissful experience was the fact she wanted and needed this man with all her being.
The flames within Leigh and Jace blazed fiercely from the sparks of their love and desire. They caressed, kissed, and labored in unison. Soon, the wildfire burned out of control. The tension inside them was nearly unbearable. Their passion was overwhelming. They neared the wondrous conclusion of their first journey together.
Jace knew she was approaching the pinnacle of arousal. It was time to carry her into the valley of pleasure and satisfaction. Up the last hill he raced with her, hesitating only a moment at the heady precipice, then pushing them over its beckoning cliff. He locked his gaze to hers at the moment their ecstasy began. As it continued to surge through them, his mouth covered hers and he rode her to their final location. There, his lips did not cease their labors. He kissed her almost breathlessly until she relaxed beneath him. He lifted his head and smiled, a warm and tender one: In a husky voice, he admitted, “That was the most marvelous experience I’ve ever had. You sure you’re all right?”
She laughed and hugged him. “Never better, Mr. Elliott.”
“It’s too late to be formal with me now, woman,” he teased.
“I suppose so, Lancelot. I must confess, I like this rescue even better than your first one,” she replied, mirth filling her eyes.
“I enjoyed both of them, all of them.” His finger-tips grazed her bare chest. She didn’t look embarrassed or ill at ease. He was glad, and relieved. She was his now, all his.
“Is that a possessive or victorious gleam in your eyes?”
He chuckled as he rolled to his back and carried her along with him. She snuggled against him. He sighed with contentment. “Both. You’re some woman, Laura Leigh. I’m glad I risked everything to visit London. If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have met you.”
“Yes, you would have,” Leigh innocently refuted. “Even if we hadn’t met there, we would have met here in Africa because of the safari.”
Jace listed his reasons for thinking otherwise. “But it would be different. If I hadn’t been in town lying in wait for you, I would be far from Mombasa and where you’re heading. If Chad had sent for me to work for him, I doubt I would have responded.” He stiffened and corrected. “That isn’t true. I would have come eventually to see what he was up to. I have to make certain he isn’t responsible for framing me and Father. Don’t get riled,” he coaxed when she tensed. “I shouldn’t have brought up my suspicions. I don’t want to spoil this wonderful evening.”
Leigh was tempted to ask Jace again about the trouble between him and Chad, but she didn’t, because she didn’t want it to seem as if she had surrendered just to open him up more. “I agree, so let’s drop it for now. Besides, you’re right. If we hadn’t become friends first, we wouldn’t be lovers tonight.”
He leaned away so he could meet her gaze. “We are friends, aren’t we, Leigh? You do trust me and believe in me, don’t you?”
“Of course I do. If not, we wouldn’t be lying here like this.”
“I had to ask. I’m as new at this kind of relationship as you are. It’ll take some adjusting.”
“And what now, my competitor? My wager is worthless, because you’ve already taken your prize. Shall I bargain something else?”
He teased her nose with a lock of her hair. “No way, woman. As you said at the fort, the safari hasn’t begun yet, so this doesn’t count as part of our deal. One night with you only whets my appetite to win more. Lots more, if I cheat.”
“I told you not to include rule three because I can’t stay here for a year, but you wouldn’t cheat, would you?”
“No, but I’ll work harder than I ever have in my life to get what I want. That’s you, Leigh, for as many nights as possible.”
“Perfect, because I want you just as badly.”
“Even if you cross out rule three, you can have me any time, any place, and any way you want me. Well, almost any place or time.”
Leigh’s eyes brightened with the smile that captured her lips. “That’s a fetching offer, Jace.” She knew she would never cancel the safari or fail to finish it. But dare she break rule two to gain more nights with him when her departure might prevent her from keeping her word? What would she do if Jace let her win his home in an attempt to hold her here? To accept payment gave her a reason to stay in Africa … No, she couldn’t take the plantation.
“You realize we have to keep this a secret until you’re twenty-one and free in November. If Chad even suspected there was something between us, he would intrude. He would pack you up and haul you home.”
“He can’t do that,” she argued. “I don’t belong to him.”
“This is a British protectorate,” he revealed, “and Chad and I are British citizens. William Webster’s inheritance falls under English law. You can’t take control or sell it until you come of age. Until then, Chad is your legal guardian and you have to obey-him. I’m afraid he can force you to leave Africa; British law is on his side for now. He has awesome power over you and your estate until November. If I interfered, I would be in worse trouble than I am now. If I carried you off, the law would come to my plantation to fetch you and arrest me. I’d be sent back to London to face all charges against me. How would it look to everyone if Jace Elliott stole the granddaughter of the man who took everything from him? Like a mean trick on you. They would spirit you back to England to clear your head.”
Jace scowled and said, “I bet that’s his clever plan, the sorry bastard. He brought you here to bewitch me. Then, when he whisks you home, he hopes I’ll follow, get arrested, and hanged.”
“What’s gotten in to you, Jace? That isn’t true. Grandfather planned this safari last winter. When he died and I went to London, Chad asked me if I wanted to come along to get better acquainted. It sounded exciting, so I agreed. Even so, how could Chad know I would make you act so rashly? Besides, you said he wants me. So why would he risk losing me to you, his enemy?”
“He probably thinks you’d never fall for a rogue like me,” Jace speculated. “And he does have the power to keep us apart. If you refuse to obey him and side with a criminal, he can have you declared insane, and you’ll lose everything to him and his mother. We’re trapped, love, so keep quiet so you can stay near me. I wish you could live at my plantation until November, so we’d have more time together.”
“If Chad has that much control over me, how could I?”
“By letting him believe you’re sailing to Texas to visit there until November. He’ll be delighted to have full control over Webster International for months. Once you have your birthday here, then you can do as you please. I don’t like you being in his control.”
“I can’t be your lover for months, Jace; that isn’t right. I have to return to London with Chad after the safari. I have so much to do there. Can you sneak back to England? We could work on clearing you. By November, we can be free to do as we please.”
“I can’t risk another trip this soon, Leigh. Chad has to know how enchanted I am by you. He’ll have the authorities on the lookout for me. And if you return with him after the safari, he’ll be after you day and night to marry him so he won’t lose everything. That would cause me to go crazy with worry and jealousy. You don’t want me to get impatient and reckless, then do something foolish. Stay here and be safe until you’re free of him. I’m sure we can find a way to trick him.”
Leigh sat up and wrapped the edge of the sheet around her nude body. “Chad doesn’t want to marry me. He has Louisa. If he was after me, she wouldn’t be here now. Romancing a woman is a mite difficult with a clingy lover along.”
“Not for Chadwick Hamilton. He always works on a new conquest before he discards his old one. If there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s that he wants you badly. He brought Louisa along so you wouldn’t get suspicious or refuse to come.”
Annoyed, she asked, “How do you know?”
Jace moved to the edge of the bed. He recovered his pants, worked them over his feet, then stood to pull them up and fasten them. Leigh observed him, admiring his firm buttocks and the way the muscles in his back rippled as he dressed. He sat again to put on his shoes. She wondered if he was thinking of a good response to her question. She could not become his mistress and he hadn’t mentioned wedlock.
Lifting his shirt and facing her as he donned it, he finally replied. “I know Chad. I know how he treats women. I know he’s selfish and greedy, cold and calculating. I know he wants to woo you, win you, and wed you to get at your inheritance. If you fail to believe me, Leigh, you could be in big trouble. Chad usually gets his desires, one way or another.”
The cold bitterness in his voice concerned Leigh. To glean more information, she ventured, “You knew him years ago, Jace. Maybe he’s matured and changed over the years. He doesn’t strike me that way.”
Jace stopped buttoning his shirt. He stared at her, then said, “Because you’re a woman, and Chad knows how to dupe them.”
Leigh frowned. “I don’t dupe easily, Jace. I know Chad has some character flaws, but everyone does. He’s been kind, thoughtful, generous, and protective of me. We’ve spent a lot of time together, and he’s been nothing but respectful and helpful. He hasn’t tried to influence me. I know he’s attracted to me. But nothing can come of a one-sided desire, and I’m certain Chad realizes I don’t feel the same way about him. He has flirted on occasion, but he’s never kissed or hugged or charmed me. Is it so unusual or unthinkable for him to be tempted by all I am and have?”
Jace caught the jesting tone in her last question, but he knew it was a serious one. To keep from losing her with stubbornness or scaring her over potentially lethal perils, he had to relent a little. Besides, he would be around to safeguard her on the safari, and afterward. “I hadn’t thought of it that way. You’re right. What man wouldn’t be tempted by you? I certainly was.” She jested, “I hope you meant, am, not was.” He grinned. “Am, was, and will be forever.” Leigh rose, dragging the concealing sheet with her. She leaned against his hard body and murmured, “Good, so stop worrying about Chad. During or after the safari, we’ll figure out what to do about us. Even while we’re separated, I won’t forget you or give up on capturing my handsome prey. You did tell me to become a persistent and aggressive predator, and I am. I won’t let Chad intrude on our plans. I promise, nothing he says or does will change things between us.”
Jace drew her tightly against him. His mouth covered hers as he prayed, I hope not, my love, or I’ll kill him this time …