Taken by You Read Online Free Page B

her buttocks and she felt a strange swelling pushing against her stomach when he pulled her tightly against him.
    Driven by desperation and fear, Luca shoved Morgan away, dropped to her knees, and folded her hands in fervent prayer. She prayed aloud, raising her eyes and voice to heaven, hoping her piety would dampen the handsome pirate’s lecherous intentions.
    “Dear sweet Savior,” she prayed, “keep me pure in mind and body. Protect me from these English heathens. If I am brutally ravished, give me the strength to kill myself afterward.” She lowered her head and prayed silently while Morgan stared down at her, impressed by the strength of her faith.
    There were few things that defeated Morgan Scott, yet Luca’s piety was one of them. Desire left him as quickly as it had swelled his manhood only moments before. Lord knows he still wanted the sultry Spanish witch, but her unshakable faith had unmanned him.
    “Stay on your knees, Sister, and pray to your heart’s content,” he barked hoarsely, ‘^lavishing an innocent zealot holds little appeal for me. I might not respect your religious calling, but I admire the way in which you use it to thwart my intentions.” His eyes narrowed and his voice grew harsh. “You are amazingly brave. Sister Luca. I would like to show you what you are missing by hiding behind that ugly habit and coif. Perhaps I still will if you overset me with your constant prayers,” he threatened.
    Luca’s prayers came to an abrupt halt. “I am no fraud. I have dedicated myself to God and the holy life. I know nothing of worldly things so I miss nothing. If I overset you, it is to remind you that my body is sacrosanct”
    Morgan laughed harshly. “If I want your body I’ll take it at my leisure. Or give you to my men. I haven’t yet decided. I’ll take my leave now so you can continue your prayers. But know this, Spanish witch, the most fervent supplications will not save you if I decide you aren’t worth the trouble.”
    Turning on his heel, he stormed out of the cabin.
    Luca’s small frame seemed to collapse inward once she was alone. She swayed on her knees, trembling when she recalled Morgan’s fierce words and threatening manner. She touched her mouth lightly, remembering the softness of his lips on hers, feeling the lingering heat of his kiss. Her cheek still burned from the pressure of his callused finger, and she wondered not for the first time what manner of man he was.
    Captain Morgan Scott hated Spaniards, that much was evident, and apparently he had no qualms about killing them. Would she be next? Obviously the man had no respect for religion or human life. Yet he had shown extraordinary restraint where she was concerned, which she attributed entirely to her piety. When he had looked at her with that wicked glow in his eyes, she had fallen to her knees in prayer and he had turned away from her in disgust. If that was what it took to remain unmolested, then she would play the role of pious nun to the hilt. She would rely on her faith to convince El Diablo to set her free.
    “What do you intend to do with the Spanish wench, Captain? The crew are distracted by her presence. They have requested that you give her over to them when you’re through with her.”
    Morgan’s expression was thoughtful as he turned to acknowledge Stan Crawford, his first mate and friend of long standing. Similar in looks, build, and mind, they both held a healthy hatred for the Spanish. They had met shortly after Morgan had received permission from the queen to operate as a privateer under the English nag. Once Morgan’s inheritance had been restored, he’d bought a ship, outfitted it with cannon, and hired Crawford as first mate. Crawford had tasted Spanish cruelty and hated them almost as much as Morgan did. Together they had made a formidable team, as well as become fast friends.
    “I haven’t decided,” Morgan said slowly. “‘This our custom to ransom female captives.”
    “A Spaniard is