Bitten Too Read Online Free Page B

somehow able to sound light and friendly. "I'm just headed there myself."
    In an instant, he swung off his horse. "In that case, let me offer my company." He handed his reins to the groom. "I can come back for my horse later."
    Flexing her jaw, she placed her foot on the step. Alone with Jorge in a carriage? Not a good idea.

 
     
    Chapter Four
     
    His chance had arrived. Jorge fairly shook at the thought of finally avenging his brother. With Yasmine at Jorge's side, the were-king would not only admit him into his presence, his guard would be lowered. He couldn't have planned this better if he'd tried.
    Jorge offered his arm to help Yasmine into the carriage. He climbed in after her and took a seat on the opposite bench. A slight frown marred her alabaster brow . H e wasn't entirely welcome. He didn't care.
    "Thank you for allowing me to accompany you," he said as the carriage rolled toward the lane.
    She kept her eyes to the window and didn't reply.
    "About last night—"
    "The less said, the better." Her gaze found his. Her throat and cheeks pinked.
    "You're embarrassed." He fought a smile. He'd been right about her. She was sweet and good, the two qualities most lacking in his life.
    "Of course I'm embarrassed." Her long fingers fluttered to her throat then down to the neckline of her gown.
    "What do you want, Yasmine?" He leaned forward.
    She glanced at her lap. "What do you mean?"
    "I think I was clear."
    A spark of spirit lit her dark eyes when she looked up. "I want what every lady wants. An honorable man to marry. A future promising stability without boredom. Children. Love."
    He wasn't worthy of her, and they both knew it. An honorable man to marry . The first item on her list, and it slapped him. Hard.
    He'd never wanted marriage or children. He hadn't given much thought to his future, for that matter. Now, in this carriage with her, he began to wonder. What would his life be like with Yasmine at his side?
    First, he'd have to give up his rakish ways. Not yet, however.
    He took the hand at her neckline, letting his fingers linger to brush the upper swells of her lovely breasts. "I'm fortunate you haven't found your honorable man yet. I have the chance to enjoy you in the meantime." He kissed her knuckles.
    She shook her head. "You're wrong about me."
    He arched his eyebrows while massaging his thumb in circles on her palm. "Am I?"
    "Why'd you come to Rift, Lord Grauwolf?"
    "Jorge."
    "Fine. Why are you here, Jorge? You're not passing through, as you'd have your aunt believe, and you're not visiting. What's your purpose?"
    His spine stiffened. Was he more transparent than he realized, or did she have some kind of sixth sense? "I'm here for answers."
    "Don't lie to me. I recognize that your trip here is about your brother, but don't try to convince me you're here solely for information. You're too intent."
    He moved to the seat next to her, his knee touching hers. It gratified him that she didn't shy away. "Maybe I've come for an amorous adventure. Maybe I have only mayhem and mischief on my mind. You've already pointed out that I'm a rakehell of the first order."
    She assessed him, her countenance passive but her breathing faster. Before she could speak, however, they turned off the road onto the Malveaux drive.
    As the castle manor came into view, anticipation vibrated through him. He released her hand and forced himself to relax against the seatback.
    "What is it?" she asked.
    "Beg pardon?" He kept his gaze on the approaching building.
    "Something's wrong." She put her hand on his wrist.
    Hairs stood on end along his arm. She was too perceptive by half. "Why does something have to be amiss? Can't I be nervous to meet Lord and Lady Malveaux for the first time?"
    She barked a pretty laugh. "You? Nervous? No. I don't believe you for a second."
    They arrived at the front and came to a stop. A butler emerged and descended the few steps.
    "My lady," said the man with a bow. "I'm sorry to say you've come when my lord and