RAVEN

There was a gentle rain falling and the air was cool. The sun had gone down long ago and the hour grew late.
From the distance a carriage could be heard coming up the dark country road. A figure waited in the dark until the carriage came in sight. He stood then and stood right in the path of the moving carriage. The footman pulled on the reins barely stopping in time.
"What goes on here?" The footman demanded angrily, jumping down from his seat.
The stranger said nothing. He moved toward the footman and before the man had any time to react he pulled out a knife and slit his throat. The stranger then moved to the carriage doors. From inside he could hear voices.
"Clive, what's going on out there?" A man demanded. "Clive?"
"Robert, don't go out there!"
"Hush, Regina, this'll take only a moment."
The doors opened and the stranger stood back in the shadows. He watched as the man got out of the carriage and came toward the footman.
"What the hell?" He stepped into the light near the footman's body. The stranger saw he was tall and lean with dark hair.
"Robert, what is it?"
"Stay there, darling."
"Well tell me what it is." The woman stepped out of the carriage. At the sight of the dead footman she gasped. "Regina, I told you to stay in the carriage."
"Robert, he's not dead is he?"
She stepped closer to her husband and the footman. As she did she stepped into the light revealing the blackest hair he had ever seen.
Quickly and quietly the stranger went around to the other side of the carriage to get a better look at them. The woman was remarkably beautiful. Her eyes were the color of emeralds and her skin was pale. A long cloak hid everything else from him, but the little he saw excited him.
"Regina, get back inside."
"Tell me, Robert! Is he dead?"
"Yes."
The stranger saw her eyes widen in fear and she quickly went back to the doors of the carriage. He took this moment to grab her husband and stab him. She turned and screamed as her husband fell, lifeless, to the wet ground. "Stay away from me!" She screamed.
The stranger smiled taking the knife to his lips and licking the blood, all the while never taking his eyes off hers. "I'm gonna do you slow," he said, voice raspy. "I want to enjoy this."
"Don't you come near me!" She said, her voice shaky.
He took a step closer to her, then another. For every one he took forward, she took two backwards until she tripped on the steps of the carriage. She screamed as she fell and he rushed toward her, pushing her down to the floor of the carriage. He pinned her legs with his and even though she fought, he quickly pinned her arms above her head with one hand.
"What do you want from me?" She deamnded. He noticed that not one tear fell from her eyes. She didn't look ready to faint or anything befitting a woman her age. It only excited him more. He pressed his hardening grion into her and she gasped, outraged.
He took the knife, still glistening with blood, and cut open her bodice. He then reached down and lifted her skirts, yanking her undergarments away, before unfastening his own breeches. She screamed, more from anger and frustration than fear. As he took her, drawing out each stroke, he used th knife to caress her bared breasts. She didn't whimper or cry out. She didn't plead with him to stop. She lay there motionless, almost expressionless, as her eyes flashed with determination and pride. She wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of seeing her break. He felt his release coming closer and closer, and when he was there he plunged the knife into her chest just as his seed began to fill her. *** Ian recognized the seal on the letter. He hadn't heard from his friend in a very long time, and eagerly he opened it. He scanned the contents quickly, then again more slowly. His brow creased with worry as he read it for a third time:

Ian-
I have been keeping track of your ship for some time now. I hope this letter finds you in good health and happy. I am sorry to hear about your mother and father. Mine too have passed, almost three years now. I'm writing to you because I believe my life is in danger. I wanted to ask a favor of you, as a friend. My sister may be in danger as well and there isn't anyone I trust more than you. I know how much you'd loathe coming to England, but I was hoping that just once you'd make an exception.

Your Friend Always-

Ian crumpled the letter in his hand. Who would be trying to kill his friend and why? There was only one way to find out. Ian yelled for his crew to set sail and plot the quickest course to England.

Chapter 1

Raven jumped off her mount and threw her reins to the young groom before anyone came to assist her. With bright blue skirts swishing, she marched angrily into the house.
That bastard! she thought. How dare he take such liberties with her?!
Feeling her anger rise once again, Raven walked determinedly to her brother's study, oblivious to the servents curious stares. When she came to the double doors she threw them open without hesitation. "Reginald, I have to speak with you," Raven stopped short when she saw her brother was not alone.
Sitting in one of the large wing chairs was a man, his long boot clad legs stretched out in front of him. His hair was the most extordinary color, an almost whiteish blonde and it looked very fine. His eyes were the color of brewing storm clouds, grey with hints of black.
Reginald, the baron of the Alverton estate, sat behind his desk, his hands folded on top of it. He was tall, lean and the eldest. He sighed when he saw his sister and calmly ran his fingers through his ink black hair. "I am busy, Ravenna." He said just as calmly, his green eyes changing to a light blue, the only sign displaying his annoyance. "I understand, Reggie, but this is important." Raven said.
"As is this," Reginald gestured to his guest. "Where are my manners? Ravenna, this is an old friend of mine, Ian Sinclaire. He's the new Earl of Lavell. Ian, you remember my sister, Ravenna Montegomery."
The earl stood. "Ah, yes, Miss Montegomery. It's good to see you again."
"My lord." Raven held out her hand to him. He placed a soft kiss on her hand and she turned back to her brother. "Now, Reggie, about my problem."
"Ravenna, I will meet you in the drawing room." Her brother said.
"But, Reggie-"
"Ravenna, the drawing room." Reginald said with finality.
Raven felt her anger rise again. "You will not dismiss me like a child, Reginald!" She said, her hands balling into fists at her sides.
Reginald sighed. "Please wait in the drwaing room."
Raven angrily turned around and left the study, slamming the doors behind her.
Reginald stared at where his younger sister had been and sighed again. "I'm sorry, Ian. What were you saying?"
Ian smiled softly. "Alverton, are you sure she's your sister? Granted you both have the same black hair, but that's where similarites end."
"She is a bit of a handful," Reginald confided. "Now that she's two and twenty, one would think she would be more interested in finding a husband."
Ian looked at him questioningly. "She has no one asking for her hand?"
"There would be plenty if Raven would stop scaring them off."
"Scaring them off?" Ian laughed. "What kind of a woman is she?"
Reginald smiled. "A wild one, I must admit. Serena and I have been trying very hard to find someone willing to take her off our hands. So far the only one staying around is the Duke of Prescott."
"Doesn't she like him? I've heard the Duke has inherited a great fortune since the death of his uncle."
"Raven's not interested in one's status. She seems to be content living here with me and my wife. She tells me so almost everyday, especially when the subject of a husband comes up. Serena and I want children, but I'm not sure it's a good idea with Raven here."
Ian looked at his friend thoughtfully. "Has she ever been to the city?"
"A few times with Serena. She stopped when my wife began picking out her clothes." Reginald looked at him. "Why do you ask?"
"Well from the contents of the letter you sent, I would think that you would want her out of the house until this whole thing was settled."
"Yes, I had thought of that. Raven could stay with Samantha. She hasn't seen her since my parents died. I'd have to talk to Raven first. I'm sure with some gentle persuasion she'll agree." Suddenly Reginald looked up at his friend, a smile spreading across his face.
"What is it?" Ian said, warily, not trusting the look on his friend's face. "I think I have just thought of a way to get Raven to go to London." Reginald's eyes lit up as he looked at Ian. "She's going to help you find a wife."
"What!" Ian sputtered, almost spilling his drink. "I don't want a wife!"
Reginald waved his hand dismissively. "I know that. But it's the only thing I can think of that would make Raven want to go."
"I see," Ian said darkly. "I suppose you'll want me to keep a close eye on her then?" "Naturally. Just a warning since we're good friends," Reginald said. "Raven's not the easiest woman to deal with. She can be cautious and very sneaky when she doesn't get her way. And like myself, she can be very very stubborn."
Ian laughed. "But she is a woman. There's nothing easier to handle than a woman." He gave Reginald a questioning look. "Have you been married for so long that you've forgotten?"
Reginald smiled. "Once you have been married you'll understand how hard it is with just one, my friend."
"Why settle for one when you can have many?" Ian laughed. "No, I think I'll leave the married life to you."

Reginald stopped before he came to the drawing room. He sighed wondering what could have upset his darling sister this time. No doubt it had something to do with the Duke. That girl was always angry with him for one reason or another. Reginald ran a hand through his hair and steeled himself for whatever it was Raven would have to say.
He walked into the room and found her pacing back and forth angrily, a cup of tea in her hand. Raven stopped pacing when she saw him and glared at him.
"Never dismiss me like a child, Reginald." She said coldly.
Reginald flinched, despite himself and sat down on the setee.
"I'm a grown woman," she continued. "Not some errant girl to be spoken to in any manner you wish." "You could have at least knocked," Reginald said calmly. "I've told you, Raven, time and again not to come into the study when the doors are closed. "
"But what I wanted to tell you is very important." Raven insisted.
"So tell me now," He poured himslef a cup of tea.
Raven sat next to her brother. "It's about Prescott. Reginald, he's gone too far this time." She took a sip from her cup and began drumming her finger on it. "He- he touched me. Here," Raven placed a hand across her breasts. "He also tried to kiss me."
"What did you do?"
"Do?" Raven said angrily. "I gave him a swift kick to the groin, that's what I did!"
Regianld spilled his tea, sputtering, "You did what?!"
"Well what else was I supposed to do?" Raven asked. "Can't you do something, Reggie? Call him out something?"
Reginal stared at his sister. "Call him out?" He said disbelieveingly. "Knowing you the poor man probably needs a doctor."
"Poor man? Poor man my ass, Reginald! He dishonored me, now I want you to do something about it!"
"Mind your language, Ravenna," A voice said from the doorway. "It isn't lady like to swear."
Reginald saw his sister roll her eyes as his wife walked into the room. Serena was the opposite of himself and his sister. Her hair was a soft butter yellow and her eyes were the color of a bright spring sky. The riding habit she wore matched her hair, and she walked over to him removing her gloves.
"Hello, darling." Serena gave him a gentle peck on the cheek. "How was your day?"
"Fair, " He said. "Did you enjoy your ride?" "Yes. Paulette Windsor told me the most delightful story. It's about your friend, Lord Lavell." Serena sat down on the other side of her husband.
"What about him?"
"Is it true that he grew up poor in America, and later on made a fortune by becoming a pirate before inheriting his title?"
Reginald barked out a laugh. "What on earth are you talking about?"
"Well is it true?" Serena asked.
"I won't even answer that." Reginald said. "If you're so curious, why don't you ask him yourself?"
Raven sipped her tea to cover a laugh. Serena was too much of a lady to ask anyone such a personal question. "I couldn't do that!" Serena said, looking at her husband in shock.
Reginald shrugged in reply.
"Why don't we have a party instead?" Serena said.
Raven looked at her as if the woman had gone completely mad. "What for?"
"Well, Ravenna, no one really knows the earl that well. What better way than to have a party for him and introduce him to our friends?"
Raven rolled her eyes. She loathed being in the same room for too long with her brother's wife, but she hated the woman's parties even more.
"What do you think, Reginald?" Serena turned to her husband.
Raven watched her brother as he seemed to seriously consider it. "All right," he said at last to Raven's utter dismay. "That sounds like a fine idea."
Serena clapped her hands happily before kissing her husband. "I must start making plans!" she left the room excitedly.
"Speaking of Lavell," Reginald said, after his wife had gone, "I wanted to ask you a favor, Raven."
Raven felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise. Usually when her brother asked something of her, it required her to do something she normally wouldn't like. She couldn't possibly think of anything that she could do for her brother that would involve the Earl.
She eyed her brother warily. "What is it, Reggie?" Her voice was coated with distrust and caution.
Reginald chuckled softly. "It's not bad, I assure you."
"That's what you said last time when you introduced me to Prescott." Raven muttered.
"What's that have to do with me?" Raven asked. "I don't want to marry."
"I know that. I also promised you I would never force you to marry anyone. I just thought perhaps you would like to go to London, away from Serena for a while."
"Well," Raven said. "That doesn't sound so bad, but what's the rest? There's always something with you."
"The earl wants you to help him just until the end of the Season."
Raven looked at Reginald. So he was finding another way to get rid of her? She wasn't that shocked. After all Reginald wanted his sister married and out of the way. She had listened to Serena plead with him to get rid of her, something about wanting children and how she would be in the way. Raven didn't think she was in anyone's way. If Reginald wanted children, he could very well have them, Raven would love her niece or nephew endlessly. She just didn't want to get married. Other than her father, long gone, and her brother, Raven hadn't known any man who married a woman because he loved her. Most men that persued her were solely after her fortune, she knew that. She was getting to old to think that she could marry for love. But Raven had decided she didn't want a marrige of convience either. If her brother and his wife could put up with her for just two more years she would have full control over herself and her money and then no man could touch her. She knew how rare it was for a man to marry a woman on the shelf and she was very content to be put there.
"Well, Raven?" Her brother interupted her thoughts. "What do you say? You'd be able to stay with Samantha."
Raven looked at her brother. It didn't seem that bad, helping a man find a wife, and she would be able to get away from Serena for a time.
She smiled. "All right, I'll do it."

Ian plucked a flute of champane from a passing footman as his eyes roamed around the room. He wasn't exactly sure who or what he was looking for until he saw the bright green color across the room.
Miss Montegomery's gown stood out amoungst the pastel colors most of the women were wearing. The bodice of her gown was cut extremely too low and seemed to lift the generous globes of her breasts. It was a wonder that she wasn't spilling out of the tight garments. Her hair wasn't piled high like the rest of the women in the room, but instead cascaded down her shoulders and back in silken blue-black waves. Ian watched as she laughed at something a gentleman said to her. She didn't let out a tittering giggle hidden by her fan, she had thrown her head back and laughed. A lock of hair draped over her shoulder and teasingly swayed across her breasts as she laughed.
"She is quite a sight, isn't she, Lavell?" Reginald materialized at his side.
Ian looked away from the enchanting Miss Montegomery. "What do you mean?"
Reginald gave him a very knowing smile. "Raven of course. I saw the way you were looking at her."
Ian shrugged. "I'll grant you, she is beautiful. But there are many beautiful women here."
"Why, then, are your eyes only on my sister?" Reginald smiled.
Ian didn't bother to reply. He continued to look at Miss Montegomery. A gentleman had come over to her and appeared to ask her for a dance. The man had bright red hair and dark blue eyes. Ian had seen him standing near Miss Montegomery for most of the evening. She declined his invitation for a dance and turned away from him. The man obviously wasn't detered for he asked again. Miss Montegomery didn't say anything this time, she just walked away.
Ian found the scene amusing. "Alverton, who is that speaking to your sister?"
Reginald smiled. "That's the duke. He's been following Raven all night."
"I see what you meant when you said she had no interest in him."
"Yes, but the man is persistant."

Raven sighed in annoyance. Prescott will proabably follow her around for the entire evening. The very thought made her want to retire to her room earlier than planned. She knew there was no possible way to avoid the man without causing some kind of scene. Raven noticed her brother standing next to the earl. The earl was taller than most of the men here so she would have noticed him even if her brother had not been there. His breeches fit him snugly emphasizing his narrow waist and powerful thighs. Baddersly entire build looked lean and powerful and he didn't bother with padding to make himself look larger. He was a man who looked comfortable in his own skin.
"Miss Montegomery, I'd like to have a word with you."
Raven rolled her eyes before turning to Prescott. He was beginning to become a damn nuisance. "I've declined your offer for a dance, Prescott." she said irritably. "What do you want?"
"I only wanted to apologize for the other day," he said. "I realize that I had been a bit forward."
"That's putting it mildly," Raven muttered.
"I would like nothing more than for you to accept my sincere apology." Prescott went on.
"No."
Prescott blinked. "I beg your pardon?"
"I said no, my lord. I will not accept your apology no matter how sincere you believe it to be. I would never accept anything from you. " She looked at him. "I hope I have spoken plain enough for you to understand."
"Very plain, Ravenna, but I will have you know this. I won't stpo until I have you. Rest assured, you will be mine." Raven opened her mouth to say something, but a voice behind her stopped her.
"There you are, Miss Montegomery. I believe you owe me a dance."
Raven turned to see Lavell behind her. He held out his arm silently waiting. She glanced at the duke before quickly taking the earl's arm. "Why, yes, I had almost forgotten."
Lavell looked at Prescott. "You will excuse us?" He didn't wait for the man to reply, he led Raven to the dance floor.
As they began to dance, Raven smiled up at the earl. "Thank you, my lord for rescuing me from that man."
"I wasn't aware you were in need of a rescue." He smiled. "I'm sure you would have found some way to get him to leave you alone."
Raven shook her head. "Anything I could think of would probably cause a scene. Heaven knows I wouldn't want to do that with Serena watching me like a bloody hawk." She sighed. "Prescott won't give me peace for minute. Surely you saw the way he followed me?"
"Yes, Miss Montegomery, I did."
"Please, my lord, call me Raven. If we are to live together for an entire Season I'd like it if you called me by my name."
"I thought it was Ravenna." Ian smiled.
"Only to those I don't like." Raven smiled back.
"I'll have to remeber that."
"May I speak plainly with you, my lord?" She asked.
Ian studied her for a moment, not sure what she had in mind. "Yes," he said slowly.
"Why would you want me to be the one to help you choose a wife? I'm not really the type to lead a shining example like my brother's wife."
"Actually, I haven't spoken about it to Lady Alverton. Only your brother concerns me."
Raven laughed, shaking her head. "Serena tries to dicuss everything with Reginald."
Ian gave her a quizzical look. "You don't believe a husband and his wife should discuss things together?"
Raven waved her hand dismissively at the question. "My lord, surely you haven't been away from society so long that you believe a man genuinly cares about what a woman says or thinks?"
"What makes you say that?"
"According to men in today's society a woman is only good for providing an heir or being an heiress. A man cares little about her intellect or what she thinks."
"Is that why you shy away from marrige?" He asked softly.
"If a man doesn't respect me as his equal I want nothing to do with him. I'm not some little trinket a man can put on a shelf while he dallies with other women. Nor am I a reason to fill his empty pockets."
Ian looked at her amused. "So you want to marry for love?"
The waltz came to an end and Raven stepped away from him. "Such a thing is not possible for me. I am content with that." she said sadly. "Thank you for the dance, my lord." She turned to leave the dance floor before he could say another word.
From the corner of her eye, Raven saw Prescott making his way over to her. She let out a low groan when she realized she had no escape. Prescott came to stand in front of her with a smile. "I was wondering if I might borrow you companion for a moment?"
"No." Raven said firmly.
"I have something to tell you that I believe you will find interesting."
"I doubt it, Prescott. I have nothing to say to you."
"I think you'll want to hear this."
"What the hell do you want?" she hissed angrily.
Prescott led her out to the balcony. "I talked to your brother and it seems you will be helping Lavell find a wife this Season."
"What of it?"
"I won't keep you in suspense, Ravenna. If by the end of the Season you have not found yourself a husband then you will become my wife."
"What!" Raven cried, not caring of the curious stares directed thier way. "My brother would never agree to such a thing!"
"Oh, but he did, Ravenna." Prescott smiled. "I told you that I would have you. One way or the other." Raven reahed with one long gloved hand and slapped Prescott's smug smile off of his face. She then took the lemonade and propmtly threw its contents in his face as well. Prescott sputtered. "You are causing a scene, Miss Montegomery."
"I don't give a damn!" Raven shouted. Everyone in the room began to grow queit. "I will never marry you!" Her body trembled with anger and she turned around, walking back inside without giving him another look.
Ian watched the bright green skirts of Raven's gown disappear out of the doors of the ballroom with amusment. He wondered what the duke could have said to her to make Raven so angry. She definatly was an untamed shrew, he decided. Someone would have to tame her.

The next afternoon there was a chill inside the halls of Alverton's country home. Ian could feel it as if a cold winter wind was blowing from within. Ian waited in the darwing room while Raven's things were being taken out. Raven herself was nowhere to be seen. Lady Alverton served them tea and kept glancing toward the open doors. "I can't understand what's keeping her." she said. "Perhaps I should see what's the matter."
"There'll be no need for that," Reginald came into the drawing room, his right eye black. "She'll be here in a moment, she went toward the kitchen."
"Darling!" Lady Alverton went to him. "What happened?"
"A simple disagreement between siblings, sweetheart, nothing to worry about." Reginald greeted his guest. "Good morning, Lavell."
"Good morning," Ian said, trying to hide a smile.
"Ravenna did this to you?" Lady Alverton said, shocked. "She hit you?"
"The pain didn't begin to bother me until this morning. Raven has quite a punch."
Raven came into the room at that moment wearing an orange traveling outfit. "I'm sorry to keep you waiting, my lord." she said, pointedly ignoring her brother and sister-in-law.
"Not to worry, Raven. I believe everything is ready so we should be on our way." He stood. "Will you be in town during the Season?" Ian asked Alverton.
"No doubt," Raven muttered darkly. "Mayhap to check my progress."
"Now, Raven-" Alverton started.
"I have nothing to say to you, Reginald." Raven coldly interupted. "Rest assured that when the Season is over everything will be in order." She turned away. "I am sure his lordship would like to be on his way." She left without another word, leaving her brother standing there with his mouth open.
Ian wasn't sure what had just happened, but he didn't like the look on his friend's face either. "Good day to you."
He said. He helped Raven into the carrige and soon they were leaving Alverton behind.

Raven said nothing to her traveling companion on thier way to the city. She was still angry at her brother's betrayal. He had promised her years ago, before he married Serena, that he would never force her to marry. What had changed his mind now? It had to be Serena. Was she really so bad that Serena would find any reason to have her gone? Well the woman got her wish, but Raven would never marry Prescott. Or any other man for that matter. She would never allow herself to be at the mercy of anyone except herself.
Raven glanced at Ian. He sat across from her, eyes closed, but she had a feeling he was aware of everything going on around him. He didn't seem to be the sort of man who would go back on his word. She had to admit that he was handsome with his pale hair and mysterious eyes. He also had a fortune and wouldn't want to marry someone for thier money. Raven smiled as an idea formed itself in her hand. She would ask Lord Lavell to pretend to court her then marry her. That would keep Prescott away, and then when she would have control over her money she'll leave and never have to be under the control of any man again!
They had arrived later than expected, and Ian insisted that Raven stay with him for the night before he would take her to Samantha. Raven agreed, tired from the trip. Ian wished her good night and went into his study.

Ian sat back in his chair and stared at the crackling fire in his study. He poured himself a glass of port and took a large gulp. Raven had definatly grown up over the years. He remembered what a nuisance she had been growing up. She had followed Ian and Reginald everywhere, wanting to climb trees and catch frogs with them. She had never fancied just staying at home painting water colors or anything else most girls her age did. Ian remembered the many times Raven's mother had come after her to finish her lessons, but the girl always found a way to sneak out to play with them.
Now she had grown into a beautiful woman who still had the same defiant spirit. Ian could see it in her eyes and how she carried herself. She seemed to always set herself apart from the norm choosing instead to set herself apart. Ian could see why she was not yet married. He didn't think there was any man who would be able to tame that wild spirit of hers.
Ian was startled out of his thoughts as he heard someone walking past the closed doors of his study. Who would still be up at this late hour? He wondered. Quickly he opened the door and saw no on there. He smiled to himself and continued on through the kitchen into the darkness of the garden. There he found Raven, long dark hair streaming in the gentle breeze. She was wearing only her chemise and the bright moon made a silhouette of her body, leaving little to the imgaination. Ian watched her as she walked in the dark garden with only the moon providing light. She looked like a dark haired goddess, Ian reflected briefly. Raven sat in one of the garden chairs and looked up at the sky.

Raven loved looking at the stars. Many times, back in the country, she would sit underneath the stars while people slept. It was the only time she could get away. Away from Serena and her demands on the proprieties, and acting like a lady. Away from Prescott's unwanted advances, and away from...everything. She sighed feeling her cares go away. She wanted to feel like this forever. The only one who could help her gain her freedom was Lavell. Raven wondered if he would help her. After all Lavell was a good friend of Reggie's. He may have the same ideas as her dear brother.
"A little late to be out, wouldn't you say?"
Raven jumped as Lavell came toward her. "My lord, you scared me half to death!"
"My apologies." He said. "May I join you?"
"Of course,"
Lavell sat next to her. "Do you always sneak out at night?" He asked.
"I wasn't sneaking. I just didn't want to disturb anyone." Raven said. She looked at him. "What are you doing awake, my lord?"
"I have trouble sleeping. I'm up usually up half the night."
"I know how you feel. Sometimes I don't sleep well either,"
"Is that why you are out here in the dead of night?"
"I find it's more peaceful at night. No one to disturb my thoughts," She glanced at him. "Not that you are disturbing me, my lord."
Ian smiled. "I hope that I wasn't,"
"I just like to be alone sometimes." She said. "Don't you?"
"Plenty of times." He said. "But I think you should get inside. You're really not dressed for being out this time of night."
Raven looked down at herself. "Oh, I had forgotten! I usually go out like this at home. No one ever sees me." She could feel her cheeks heat up, and was glad for the darkness.
"Maybe next time you should put on a wrapper," Ian said calmly.
Raven stood. "Yes, I suppose you're right. Goodnight."
"Goodnight."
Raven quickly went back inside to her room. She was glad that Baddersly hadn't said anything more about the state of her dress. Or lack thereof.
Ian sat out in the garden for a moment longer. Reginald had warned him that the girl could be a bit wild, but to be out in the dead of night nearly naked! He took a deep breath and sighed. She was beautiful. Her skin nearly glowed as the moon shone upon it and Ian had felt himself stiffening just looking at her. He had quickly sat down, hoping she wouldn't notice. Raven hadn't, and for that Ian was glad. He had to get control over himself. He was to protect her and nothing else, but he would have to get her to Samantha soon.

Invitations to many different parties arrived the next morning when breakfast was served. Ian sat at the table looking over a few things addressed to himself and handed the invites over to Raven. She looked stunning in her purple morning dress and Ian found it hard to keep his eyes off of her. He kept pictureing her in the chemise and aggrivated at his thoughts, he turned to his food.
"It would seem many people want to have us over in the next few weeks," Raven murmured.
"Is that a good thing?" Ian asked.
"Yes, but I think it has more to do with curiosty about you, my lord."
"Like what?" Ian said.
"Well the gossip that's going around of course. It seems that some people are saying you're an ex pirate, my lord." Ian dropped his fork. "Where did you hear that?"
"Serena told me. I don't believe a word of it though." Raven said.
"Are you ready for me to take you to Samantha?" Ian quickly changed the subject.
"Yes, quite." Raven smiled.

Samantha Bright, the Lady Callow, was well known for her exquisite parties. She smiled happily when she saw Lavell. Lady Callow had been friends with both families for many years and was happy to see Raven out in society again. She had been such a success when she had her first Season, it was wonder why she never married. She was such a wild thing, had been for years, but then her parents were the only ones able to keep a good rein on her. Samantha certainly didn't expect Reginald Montegomery to be able to fill those shoes. When she had recieved word that Raven was helping to find Lavell a wife, she had been quite surprised. Raven hadn't ventured to the city since the death of her parents almost three years ago. She had left for the country with her brother and his new wife and was hardly ever heard from. Samantha thought it would be good for the young woman to come to the city even for a little while. Maybe she might even find a husband for herself.
Samantha greeted her guest warmly. "My lord, I almost thought you weren't going to come."
Ian smiled, kissing her hand. "I wouldn't have missed this for the world."
"Well I hope not, my lord," Raven said from the stairs. "Or else I wouldn't need to be here."
Ian's jaw almost dropped as he saw Raven. The blood red gown was a bit of a relief from her normaly brightly colored gowns, but it brought of the paleness of her skin and made her hair seem somewhat darker. Her lips were the same color as the dress and Ian couldn't help but think of her as some sort of temptress with her bright emerald eyes.
Ian cleared his throat. "It seems I have the pleasure of escorting the two most beautiful ladies in all of London."
Raven smiled. "Thank you, my lord."
"I thought I might find you here."
Raven turned to see Prescott smiling at her. Her face pinched in annoyance and she didn't bother trying to hide it.
He was the last person she wanted to see.
"Your gown is lovely, Ravenna."
"What do you want?"
"Only to ask for a dance."
"No. Do not ask again."
"Come now," he said. "You wouldn't dare cause a scene here like you did at home."
"Wouldn't I?" She glared at him.
"Think of how that would affect Lady Callow. She is a friend of the family is she not? You wouldn't want to embarrass her."
Raven sighed. He was right. She would have to rein in her temper. She didn't like it, but she would do it. Prescott held out his hand to her. "One dance is all I ask, my dear." Raven relunctantly took his hand and Prescott led her to the dance floor just as a waltz began to play. She wouldn't look at him as they danced and he kept trying to make conversation which she pointedly ignored. Raven looked across the dance floor and saw a man a few years older than herself.
"Prescott," she said. "Who is that?"
"That would be my younger brother, Alan."
Raven looked at him. "I didn't know you had a brother, my lord."
"There are many things you don't know about me. All of which I am hoping you will learn."

Ian watched Raven closely as she danced with Prescott, a smile on his lips. She didn't look too happy and she barely said a word to him. When he saw the man dancing who caught her eye, Ian noticed that she looked thoughtful, calculating. He wondered what she was thinking and who that man might be.
"How is she?"
Ian turned to Samantha. "What do you mean?"
"Raven. How is she getting along with you?"
"Fine."
Samanta smiled. "Come now, you must like her. Reginald told me everything, Ian, dear. You don't have to pretend."
Ian smiled. Samantha always knew what was going on. "She is very beautiful." he said softly. "But that woman has been allowed to go wild for far too long. The other night she was walking around the garden in only her chemise."
"Really?" Samantha tried to hide a smile behind her fan. "What did you do?"
"Nothing. I embarrassed her so she went inside. She said she had come out to look at the stars."
"Yes, Raven does that from time to time. Mainly when she wants to think. I remember when her parents died she stayed with me while her brother got things settled. The poor girl would walk around late at night or go out to the gardens. Sometimes she had trouble sleeping. She'd have terrible nightmares that would have her screaming. Raven's a very proud woman, Ian. I'm telling you all this confidence. "
"I understand."
"Ever since the death of her parents, Reginald's been more than leniant with her. He let her stay in the country and never made her marry. I don't believe she wants to." She looked at him. "Raven doesn't know the true reason why she's here?"
"No." Ian said.
Samantha nodded. "It's well she shouldn't. Raven won't take kindly to knowing you're protecting her. Reginald was right for sending her with you."
Ian watched as Raven danced with an older baron. "Do you think so?"
"I don't doubt it. Besides," Samantha smiled. "Raven might provide some excitement in your otherwise boring life." "I don't need excitement." Ian said stoically. "I am helping out a friend, nothing more. When this is done she will return to the country with her brother. In the mean time I will look after her as promised."

Chapter 2

Raven sat across from Alan and watched as he shuffled another hand of cards. So far she had beaten him three times, but the man was a sore loser and had insisted that they play one more hand.
"A lady doesn't usually join a man alone for a game of cards." He remarked idly.
Raven waved her hand dismissively. "I'm known for not being like most ladies."
"Wouldn't you rather be dancing or chatting with friends?" Alan delt the cards.
"That gets so boring after awhile, wouldn't agree?"
Alan smiled. "Sometimes, yes."
They were at the home of the Baron and Lady Sheffield. Lady Sheffield was only a year or two younger than Raven, while her husband was nearing fifty. The baron had wanted an hier and the lady's parents had wanted her to marry into good money. It was a good match for both families considering Celia soon became pregnant only a few months after being married. Despite her condition, Celia threw parties almost every night. This was the fifth one Raven had attended since the Callow's ball. At every one Raven noticed that Prescott and his brother were in attendance. Before coming to Celia's party she had joined the woman for tea and inconspicuously asked who would be on the guest list. The poor woman, probably thinking Raven had wanted to know if a certain gentleman would be present, began telling her everyone who would be there. When Prescott's name was mentioned, Raven quickly asked if his brother would be joining him.
"Oh yes," Celia said. "Those two never go out without each other. I believe the duke is looking to take a wife, and perhaps his brother as well." She had looked at Raven questioingly. "Are you hoping Alan will be there?"
"Not in the way you think," Raven said coolly before sipping her tea.
"Don't you ever want to marry, Ravenna? It could be good for you."
"Marrige is as good for me as colic for a baby. I prefer being alone." Raven said, ending the conversation.
Raven looked at her hand. "Tell me," she said absently. "Are you looking to take a wife?"
Alan gaped at her in astonishment. "That's very forward of you."
"I like to get right to the point." She smiled. "Are you or are you not?"
"Pray, what business is that of yours?"
"Well let's just say I'm curious." she said.
"Miss Montegomery, you are a very nice young woman." Alan said. "Very bright and kind, not to mention beautiful. A man could do far worse than to take you as a wife."
"So you like me then?"
"Yes."
Raven looked at him then. He seemed genuine enough, but what if he was just a spy for his brother? Someone to keep tabs on her to see how well she was doing on finding herself a husband. Raven really wanted to find out. She was thinking of how to phrase the question when a voice said. "Why aren't you with Samantha?"
Raven rolled her eyes before turning to face the earl. He was going to ruin everything if he kept following her about. Just three nights ago she had been about to talk to Alan when Lavell had interrupted, telling her she needed to keep an eye on Beth while he went elsewhere.
"I am playing a game of cards," she answered. "Would you care to join us?"
"No I would not," the earl said coolly. "I would suggest you go back with the others."
"Why is that? Alan and I were having a fine time, were we not?"
Raven saw Alan glance at the earl then back at her. "I believe the earl is right. We've played enough cards for one evening." He stood. "Goodnight, dear lady, and the same to you my lord." Alan quickly left with a nod of his head to both of them.
After he had gone, the earl looked at Raven. "What do you think you were doing?"
"Whatever do you mean?" she asked innocently.
"You were here playing cards with him alone?"
"Do you see anyone else present?" Raven looked around the room.
She saw a tick form above the earl's right eye. "You shouldn't be here alone with him."
"Why not? It was just a game of cards after all. Besides he's harmless."
"A lady would never put herself in such a position. You know how people talk."
"I don't give a fig about what people say about me," Raven said angrily. "Let them talk."
"I won't let you behave this way,"
Raven stood. "You won't let me?" She said quietly. "My lord, what I do or don't do has absolutly nothing to do with you. I do what I please."
"Not while you're with me you won't."
"If I recall," she said. "I am here to help you. I could just as easily return home."
"Would you really leave?"
Raven bit her lip. She still needed Lavell to help her with her plan. She couldn't very well do that if she were back at home.
Raven sighed. "You're right, my lord, what was I thinking?"
Lavell smiled. "Good. I don't want to see you playing cards with another man alone again, understood?"
Raven nodded, glaring at him. He thought like every other male in the world. Just because he was born of the right sex he felt it entitled him to some sort of power. Well she'd show him. Ravenna Montegomery took orders from no one. She had other ways of getting to Alan. Raven smiled as she left the card room with the earl. Oh yes, many other ways.

Ian wasn't sure he liked the smile on Raven's face as they went to join the others. What bothered him more was how easily she gave in. Reginald had told him she could be crafty and her easy acceptance unnerved him. He just knew that Raven had something going on inside that head of hers, but what exactly he couldn't be sure. He would have to keep a close eye on her, he decided. He wondered what Raven was doing playing cards with him this evening. He knew they weren't up to anything illicit, but for some reason it bothered him to see her near the man.
Raven quickly left his side and began to mingle with others at the party. Ian kept a close eye on her. He saw Prescott going in Raven's direction, and he wondered what the woman would do once he got there. Ian found it amusing that the man kept trying when she had made it perfectly clear many times that she wasn't interested. Raven turned and as always didn't look happy to see him. She looked ready to turn away, but then the duke whispered something in her ear. Raven paled, and Ian wondered what he had said to her. Prescott held out his hand and Raven followed him to the dance floor. It was just like at the Callow's ball. Ian wondered what was going on between the two of them. He looked back at the dance floor and saw that Raven nor Prescott was there. He quickly looked around and saw them exiting through to the gardens.
Damn that woman! he thought angrily as he marched after them, oblivious to the strange looks he recieved. Ian stepped outside into the lush gardens that the Sheffield estates were famous for. It was rumored that Lady Sheffield had the garden designed in a maze so that her husband wouldn't find her with a lover. There was very little light out here, but Ian's eyes adjusted quickly. He wondered why Raven would even come out here with Prescott when it was obvious how much she despised the man. He stared down the semi-lit path passing couples, some close to being undressed while others were kissing and fondling in the dark. He ignored them and continued until he came to a fork in the path. Left or right? Which way did they go? Ian looked from one path to the other unsure which one to take. He heard a muffled sound and a man swear not far from him. He followed the sound and saw the bright orange skirts of Raven's gown bunched in Prescott's hands on a bench.
"Let go of me!" Raven hissed.
"Scream if you like, but no one will come." Prescott's voice came out husky. "You're going to be my wife anyway so why fight me? I only want a small taste of what I will soon be getting in our marrige bed."
"Bastard!" Raven spat.
"I believe the lady has made clear her intentions," Ian said. "Let her go, Prescott."
Prescott turned to him, surprised. "You don't scare me, Lavell." He said. "Now leave us."
"I don't think I can do that," Ian took a step toward them. "I'm her escort. Let her go. Now." he said the last word quietly.
Prescott sneered. "What are you going to do if I don't? Call me out?" He laughed.
Ian looked at Raven. She moved slowly away from Prescott, but then he tightened his grip on her skirt. "You're not going anywhere, my love."
"I'm warning you, Prescott." Ian said.
"You won't touch me. You wouldn't dare, Lavell."
Suddenly Raven struck out with her fist, hitting Prescott on the side of his head. He grunted as he fell from his seat and Raven quickly stood and went over to Ian.
"I did warn you." Ian said. "I suggest in the future, Prescott, that you listen." He held his arm out to Raven and they left the garden.
As they neared the lights of the house Ian turned to Raven. "Did he hurt you?"
"No," She said softly.
"What made you go with him in the first place?" He said heatedly.
"It's none of your concern."
"I'm making it my concern. If you are to stay with me I won't have you going out to meet your lover for a tryst."
"He's not my lover!" Raven shot back. "I would never willingly let him touch me!"
"Yet you didn't seem forced to come out here."
"You don't understand."
"So tell me."
Raven glared at him. "I don't have to tell you anything."
Ian could feel his anger rising. His hand flexed at his side as he looked at her. She gave him an equally angered stare before snatching her hand from his arm.
"You are not my brother, my lord. I don't have to answer to you or any man!" "I'm glad I'm not your brother. If I were, I would have strangled you for such a stunt. God's teeth, woman, what were you thinking?"
Raven took a deep breath and let it out slowly. It didn't seem to help her anger any for Ian saw the fire in her eyes. She didn't say another word, but instead went back into the house.
Ian watched her go and swore softly under his breath. That woman needed a very tight rein, and it was obvious she was reckless and being foolhardy. He wasn't sure if he were up to job his friend had assigned to him.
Raven paced back and forth in her room a few days later. Prescott was getting to be a bit out of hand. If Lavell hadn't come when he did, would she have been able to stop his advances? She needed to put her plan into action now, before Prescott did something more than try to steal a few kisses. Raven remembered the look on Lavell's face when he came into the garden. He was angry, naturally, but there was something else there. Something beneath the surface that for the first time made Raven think he could be dangerous. She wasn't sure if she could go through with this plan, but if it was the only way to have Prescott leave her alone, so be it. Raven decided that she would do it. She would tell Lavell what was going on and hope he would agree to her plan.
Ian was looking over the ledgers of the merchandise on his newest ship when there was a firm knock on his door. He ignored it, remembering that he told his staff he didn't want to be disturbed. He couldn't quite keep his mind on what he was reading, because it kept going back to Raven in the gardens with Prescott. He hadn't seen much of Raven since then, except only at meals. Why the devil did she go with him?
She had to have known what the gardens were used for at such an event. He didn't think she was that dense, but some women have proved him wrong before. He thought of the way Raven looked as she had stared angrily at him. There had been such fire in her eyes, such passion. He wondered if she would have that same fire and passion in her eyes if he were to be the one kissing her. To be the one touching her so intimately. He imagined that it would take hours to bank those fires. To have her beneath him, clinging to him as her passion and her fire consumed them both.
Another knock came again bringing him from thoughts.
"Who is it?"
"I'm sorry to bother you, my lord," Bugsy's voice came from the otherside of the door. "Miss Ravenna wished to speak with you. I told her you didn't want to be disturbed."
"Let her in."
Raven came inside the room slowly.
"What can I do for you?" He asked.
Raven hesitated. "I, uh, came to apologize, my lord."
"For what?" He asked. He continued to read over the ledgers.
"Well for the other night. I shouldn't have snapped at you when you were only trying to help me." He could hear her pace around the room.
"Really?" He smiled to himself. "It took you three days to come to me with this apology?"
"I'm not very good at it, my lord, I afraid." She said. "I don't apologize often."
Ian looked up at her. "I gathered that with the way you're fidgeting."
Raven stopped her pacing then and turned to him. She bit her lower lip looking unsure about what to say. Ian found the look endearing. She looked almost like a child, guilty and knowing it, and not liking the fact one bit.
"Do you accept my apology?" she asked.
Ian considered it while he looked at her. She didn't hold his gaze for very long and continued walking around the room. He sat back in his chair and watched her walk around examining his things. Her fingers brushed lightly the books on the shelf.
"There certainly are a lot of books of poetry here, my lord." she said.
"Yes. My mother loved poetry. She used to read passages to me and Bethany when we were younger."
"Do you enjoy it now?"
"I haven't time to read about love lost or found." he said.
Raven didn't reply. She continued her personal tour of his study almost seeming to him. The butter yellow morning dress she wore looked very fetching, Ian thought. This yellow one seemed softer than some of her usual clothes. It wasn't as dark, bold, bright, or even as eye catching. Still something about it held his gaze. He continued to stare wondering what it was. Then he realized that it wasn't as low cut as many of her dresses. This one covered everything, and Ian found he liked it alomst as much as her red gown.
"I think I will accept your apology, Raven." He said softly.
She turned to him, smiling. "Really? Thank you, my lord, because there was something I've been meaning to ask you." "What would that be?"
"This is going to sound strange, my lord." She said. She came and sat down in one large chairs in front of his desk. "I need you to marry me."
Ian looked at her in disbelief. "What?"
"Not in the true sense, my lord. You see, my brother said if I didn't find a husband by the end of the Season then I will have to marry Prescott." She looked at him. "I can't do that, I abhor the man." "Why would your brother say somthing like that? It was my understanding that he would never force you to marry." "I don't know why he would say such a thing. I believe that Serena made him agree to it. She doesn't like me, you know."
"Yes, I've noticed the way you two are with each other." He said, frowning. It didn't seem like Reginald to break a promise to anyone, especially his beloved sister. If his friend's wife wanted Raven gone, it was a bit understandable. The woman could be out of hand sometimes, but still that wouldn't prompt Reginald to force his sister to marry. And why to Prescott? True the man had a large fortune, but the Alverton estates were just as rich, if not more so. The match wouldn't be because of a need for money. Could it be because the duke was the only one asking for her hand?
Ian drummed his fingers on his desk.
"Well?" Raven said impatiently. "Will you help me? I'm sure you probably don't want to marry, and I certainly don't want to be controlled by any man. I only want control over my money."
"If we married," Ian said slowly. "Your money would go to me."
Raven frowned. "Well, yes, I suppose it would."
"So what good would it do if we married?"
Raven gave him an exasperated look. "We wouldn't actually get married, my lord. We'd pretend to get married and when my money is transfered to me we wouldn't be married anymore."
Ian's smile was humorless as he contemplated her words. "How do you plan to pull this off? A normal engagment could take as long as a year."
"I've already thought of that," Raven smiled triumphantly. "We'll say we're madly in love and couldn't bare to wait that long."
Before Ian could stop it he barked out a laugh. This woman was absurd! Did she really believe that her silly plan would work?
Raven frowned as he continued to laugh. "What is so funny, my lord?"
"I'm sorry," he said, his laughter quieting. "There could be a scandle in that. You know how people talk."
"I don't care what people say about me."
"The engagment will have to be at least six months long, Raven."
"I don't want to wait that long!" Raven cried.
"All right," Ian said. "Three months."
"Does this mean you will help me?"
Ian studied her a moment. Engaged to the enchanting, if not wild, Miss Ravenna Montegomery. It would certainly get Prescott off her back, and he would be able to look after her when the Season was over. Raven sat there across from him looking hopeful, almost eager. Ian could see the barely contained light in her eyes. He wasn't entirely sure if he could go through with a pretend engagment. After all, Raven wasn't the type of woman to sit back idlly and do what she's told. Unless, of course, someone had something she desperately wanted. Like her money.
Ian leaned toward her. "Why do you want your money, Raven?"
She blinked as if she had not expected him to ask. "Why?"
He spread his hands. "Well if I'm to agree to this I'd like to know why."
Raven chewed on her lower lip, drawing his attention there. They looked so soft and he wondered if a man had ever kissed her the way a woman ought to be kissed.
"I suppose that's fair." She said finally. "It seems to me that women of older years and men get to do whatever they please, without a care to what society thinks. If a man can choose not to marry, then the world is alright with it. If a woman chooses not to marry, well, she has to wait until she's on the shelf before she can have any type of freedom."
"And this bothers you?"
"Yes! Why must women be treated as if they are nothing more than trinkets for a man's enjoyment? I refuse to be such a trinket, my lord. If I had the money left to me by my parents, I could spend the rest of my days doing what I please."
"And what would that be?"
"I'd live in the country, never to be bothered by society again."
Ian admired Raven's passion. He looked down at the ledgers in front of him before looking back at her. "Alright, Miss Montegomery," He said. "You may now consider yourself engaged."
"Really?" Her smile brightened her entire face. "You don't know how happy this makes me, my lord."
"You'll have to start adressing me by my given name," he said. "You'll have to start calling me Ian."
Raven nodded.
"Good. We'll have to put a notice in the paper to make this all seem real, of course."
Raven jumped up from her seat. "Oh thank you, my-I mean Ian. Thank you so much!" She came around his desk and planted a quick kiss on his cheek before leaving the study.
Ian watched her go and smiled to himself. She really did look happy. Gently, he reached up and touched the spot where she had kissed him. Her lips were definately soft.

Reginald smiled when he read the notice in the paper. He knew that Lavell would do everything he could to protect Raven, but he had never expected this.
"What are you smiling about, darling?"
Reginald looked at his wife. "Serena, you'll just have to read this for yourself." He handed her the paper.
Serena sipped her tea as she looked at the paper. Her eyes widened and and she spit out her tea in the most unladylike display Reginald had ever seen.
Taking a napkin Serena composed herself and wiped her mouth. "Are you sure this is correct?" She asked. "Wouldn't Raven send us a letter before we read it in the paper?"
Reginald shrugged. "Maybe she's still overcome with excitement. She's only been gone for two months."
"Has it really been that long? I wonder what could have happened to change her mind on marrige."
"I'm not sure. Why don't we take a trip to London and ask her ourselves?"
Serena smiled. "An excellant idea."

Once again Samantha threw a magnificant party. This one was in congratulations on Ian and Raven's engagment. She had to admit that she never expected to be throwing such a party in Raven's honor. When she had read the notice in the paper she sent word to Ian to confirm it. He'd written back, explaining the entire thing was a farce, but that he would greatly appreciate it if she would help keep up the pretense.
It was only to be a small gathering of close friends to congradulate the bride and groom-to-be. Somehow over the past hour it had become more so, it seemed every member of the ton wanted to be sure this was really happening.
Raven stood next to Ian smiling and thanking everyone who congratulated them. This was very boring. Raven snapped open her fan to cover a yawn. It was the exact same color as the magenta gown she wore. This gown wasn't as low cut as most of her gowns, but it was low enough to recieve a few disapproving glances from her fiance when another man came to greet her.
"I believe I should congratulate you, dear sister," he said.
"Reginald!" Raven threw her arms around her brother. "I'm glad you're here, when did you get to London?"
Reginald smiled. "A few hours ago. Serena and I couldn't have missed this."
Raven felt her face pinch. "Serena's here?"
"Yes." She said. "I also want to congratulate you."
Raven folded her arms across her chest. "I'm sure."
"Honostly, Ravenna." Serena said. "Why don't you believe me?"
Raven shrugged. "Well thank you, anyway. I'm sure you'll be happy now that I'll be out of your lives."
Reginald looked at his sister. "What makes you say that? Raven you're always welcome to stay with us."
"Yes," Serena gave a forced smile. "Always."
"We shall see."

Ian watched the interlude with Raven and her family. She very displeased with them and he didn't blame her. He would have to speak with Reginald about his promise not to force Raven to marry. He knew Reginald wasn't the type of man to break a promise. Something didn't seem quite right with the whole picture. Prescott was the next who came to greet them. He smiled brightly and wished them the best but, Ian noticed, he held Raven's hand a little longer than necessary. Raven glared at the man her finger tightening on his grip.
"What are you doing here?" She said coldly.
"I believe everyone was invited to this party." He winced as Raven continued squeezing his fingers and only then did she let go.
"This is for friends and family only. You're certainly not my friend."
"I am a friend of your brother's wife. Isn't that good enough?"
"I don't want you here."
"Now, Raven-"
"It's Ravenna to you!" she snapped.
Ian decided to interject before more eyes went in thier direction. "I believe the lady asked you to leave."
Prescott's face had turned red. He gave Ian a very dark look and to Raven, his eyes went up the length of her body, pausing pointedly at her chest.
Raven gasped and balled her hand into a tight fist. She punched him so hard it could be heard in the entire room. Everyone was looking at them now, and those closest to them looked at Raven in shock. Blood formed in the corner of Prescott's mouth as he glared at her.
"That will be the last time you will ever hit me,"
Raven was breathing hard from anger. "Get out," she said through clenched teeth. "Leave my sight! I never want to see you again!" She went to hit him again, but Ian grabbed her arm.
"Enough." he whispered in her ear. He pulled her to his side. "Prescott, you should go."
Prescott wiped the blood from his mouth and turned away angrily.
Ian watched him leave, wanting to hit the man himself for staring so brazenly at his fiancee. Even if this engagment wasn't real, Prescott didn't know that, and to look at Raven the way he did, and in front of Ian and everyone there, it showed the man had no respect. The guests began to whisper and talk amougnst themseleves.
"I think I need some air." Raven said.
Ian looked at her angrily. "Yes, I believe that we should."
"I'll be on the balcony," Raven said. "I want to go now."
Ian sighed. "I will be only a moment."
Raven nodded and turned to walk toward the balcony.
Samantha came over to Raven. "My dear?"
"I'm sorry, Samantha," Raven said, her eyes bright with tears. "I never meant to cause such a scene."
"It's all right, Raven. The way the duke was looking at you, I'm surprised Ian didn't hit him after you did." She smiled. "There's nothing wrong here. Everything will be fine."
"Lavell is very angry with me. He always seems angry with me."
"No, I'm sure he's not. He's probably upset that you hit him and he didn't."
Raven gave her a weak smile. "I suppose you're right."
"Is there anything I can get you?"
"A coach would be nice."
"Don't you want to wait for Ian?"
"No," Raven sighed. "I'd like to leave now."
Samantha smiled. "Of course, dear."
"You won't tell Lavell I've gone?"
"Not unless you want me to."
Raven hugged Samantha, loving her more. "Thank you."
Samantha quickly arranged a coach for Raven. She would probably be gone before Lavell even realized she had left. She didn't really want to see him or anyone at the moment. As she left, she saw Alan getting into another coach. Raven wondered where he could be going. There was only one way to find out, and she told the coachman to follow Alan's.

Chapter 3

Raven had never been to this part of town before. The air was foul, and she wasn't sure that it looked very safe. What would Alan be doing here? she wondered, as she saw his coach come to a stop in front of a place named The Rusty Hog. It must be some kind of brothel or gaming hell. Raven had always wondered what went on in such establishments. She had heard of young men who lost fortunes at the tables. She knew she was good at cards and she had always wanted to best a man at the tables. Raven smiled as the thought went through her mind. She didn't want to be seen, so she quickly told the coachman to take her home.
Raven walked in the ballroom hoping no one had noticed she was gone, most especially Lavell. She didn't want to have to deal with him tonight. She looked around the room and saw him talking to her brother. Lavell suddenly stopped and turned to look at her. It was as if he knew she were watching him. Raven felt her heart give a jolt as he continued to look at her. She hoped that he didn't know that she had left. He excused himself from Reginald and came towards her.
Raven watched him as he walked slowly towards her. He came to stand in front of her and Raven looked up at him, smiling softly. For a brief moment she wondered what it would be like if this engagment were real. If Lavell were actually in love with her and really wanted to marry her. She sighed and closed her eyes. She couldn't allow herself to think like that, because that would never happen. Lavell wouldn't want her for a wife, he would want someone like Serena, someone who wouldn't cause trouble. Most men did.
"You didn't wait for me." He said, frowning softly.
"No, I wanted to be alone." Raven replied.
"I feel I must apologize for my anger earlier. I couldn't have expected less from you."
Raven looked away from him. "I shouldn't have hit Prescott. It was very indecent of me."
Lavell smiled. "Since when have you cared about being decent?"
Raven returned his smile. "Still it wasn't right. I believe I shall make an early night of it, my lord. It's been a stressful evening."
Ian studied her face for a moment, then nodded. "If you like. I may call upon you tomorrow for a ride in the park, would you like that?"
Raven nodded, not trusting to speak. She would like that very much, but she didn't want him to know that. "Good night then, Raven."
"Good night, Ian." Raven left the room and headed up the stairs to her room.

Raven watched as the last carriage drove away before she snuck out of her room into the garden. From there she climbed over the low garden wall to the coach she had waiting for her in an alley. She climbed inside, smiling. She couldn't believe that she was doing this. Dressed in mens' clothes, she told the coachman to take her to The Rusty Hog. Raven sat back, enjoying the ride, wondering what kinds of things she would see once she got inside. Raven tapped her cane nervously against her leg. She had only dared once to wear this outfit in public a few years ago, when she had stayed with Samantha and wanted to go to a fair. There was no one to take her so she figured she'd go herself. She had had a marvelous time and no one had been the wiser that she was a woman.
The coach came to a stop in front of the Hog and she gave the coachman a few coins for his trouble. She stood in front of the door feeling more nervous than ever. She thought briefly of the scandal the would ensue if she were caught, then shook off the feeling. No one would catch her, she was sure of it. Squaring her shoulders, she opened the door and went inside.
Ian drank the last of his ale. He watched as Prescott and his brother cheated another poor sap out his money. He shook his head wondering how deep in his cups a man had to be not to see that the brothers were cheating. It was obvious to him and he was across the room. Ian knew where he would find Prescott after he had left Samantha's. He had overheard him talking to his brother one night about the place. It seemed the two came almost every night to cheat young dandies out of thier money.
Ian looked up and saw such a young man enter the Hog. The young man looked around a bit nervously before quickly taking a seat. Ian ignored him. Sooner or later, he would become a victim of the brothers.
It really wasn't what Raven had been expecting. She thought the place would be well lit and perhaps a bit cleaner. She saw Alan and Prescott and was suddenly glad for the lack of light. She took a seat quickly, keeping her head down. The hat she wore covered her bound hair, but she didn't want to take any chances. A bar maid came to her, asking if she wanted a drink. Raven quickly shook her head, not looking at the woman.
"'Ere now, love. You can't come in w'out a little somethin' to drink." The woman said.
Raven raised her head to look at the woman and firmly tell her no. She stopped when she saw the woman's dress. How could her brother ever say her gowns were too low cut! Raven couldn't see how this woman managed to keep hers on. The light blue fabric looked worn and ready to tear at any moment. Her hair was a mass of dark red curls atop her head, and she was certainly wearing too much rouge and lipstick.
The woman laughed when Raven quickly looked away and she leaned to whisper in her ear, "Don't be shy, love. We alls gotta grow up sometime," The woman's hand slowly went up Raven's leg. "Let good ol' Roxy make a man outta ya."
Raven grabbed her hand when it was almost up her thigh. "No," She said firmly, deepening her voice to what she hoped sounded like a man's. "Thank you, miss."
Roxy stood up, her laughter seeming to fill the room. "Boy's still keepin' his manners, even in a place like this!" she hooted. "Suit yourself then, love. If you need anythin' t'all, you give ol' Roxy a call, eh?"
Raven nodded, hoping the woman would go away. Roxy did leave then, still chuckling to herself. She watched Prescott and his brother play cards and when thier opponent lost, she paled as Prescott's green eyes fell on her. She saw him lean toward Alan and whisper something to him. Alan then looked in her direction, and her heart began to race. Alan smiled cordially and came to her table.
"Would you care to join our game?" he asked.
Raven wasn't sure if she could speak.

Ian couldn't watch Prescott and his brother cause another young man's father to be angry tonight. He hoped the young man had enough sense to decline the offer, but when he saw him nod, he groaned and decided to help him.
"Why don't I join you as well?" He said to Alan.
Alan looked surprised to see him, as did the young man. Maybe he hadn't expected anyone to join them.
"I didn't think you were a gambling man, Lavell." Prescott said as they went toward the table.
"There are many things about me you don't know." Ian said darkly.
Prescott smirked. "You aren't planning to call me out for earlier this evening, are you?"
"I would, but I wouldn't want to waste a bullet." Ian said. He looked over at the young man who seemed a bit hesitant to join the table. "Well come on." he said.
The young man looked around and then turned to pick up his cane. Ian saw a lock of hair fall from beneath his hat. Even in the dim light Ian could tell it was very dark black and long. He almost jumped from his chair when he realized he was looking at a woman. The curves of her body was very evident in the men's clothing. The breeches were snug against her hips, but the coat helped to cover that, unless she bent over as she had to pick up the cane. Ian's mouth set in a firm line as he thought of only one woman who would be brave enough to go out late at night dressed as a man. He would never have thought Raven would do such a thing, but then again, he shouldn't have even put that past her.
He watched her walk toward the table and looked at her face. She had concealed her womanly features very well, and unless someone knew what to look for she would have passed for a very young man indeed. She nervously sat next to him, not looking at anyone at the table.
Raven was sure that Lavell had figured her out. The way he studied her face as she came to sit at the table, was very intense, as if he were trying to get her to admit who she was. She didn't want to look at Prescott or Alan. She couldn't afford for them to know who she was. They were deep into thier cups, and it was surprising that neither seemed to take too much notice. Alan shuffled and dealt the cards. In no time Raven and Lavell were winning. They beat the brothers who demanded they play again. In a few hours they had all of the money that the two had gotten from the others they had beaten that night. Alan looked a little surprise, and Prescott was purely livid. Raven enjoyed the way his face began to turn almost purple with anger. She stood, wanting to leave before he demanded another game. "Where do you think you're going?" Prescott demanded.
Raven turned to him. "Is there a problem?" she asked. "I have returned my portion of the winnings back to you." "I think you were cheating!" Prescott accused hotly.
"What does it matter, Prescott?" Lavell said smoothly. "We have both given you back the money."
"I don't care, I know he was cheating!" He pointed a finger at Raven.
"I don't cheat, sir. You are just a poor loser." She turned to leave, but Prescott grabbed her arm.
Raven gripped her cane tightly in her hand. "I would ask that you release me."
"Cheater!" Prescott breathed. He stank of ale, and for that Raven kindly asked him again to let her go. When he didn't, she took her cane and swiftly swung it between his legs. Prescott released her with a grunt, but Alan stood to come to his brother's rescue. He moved as if to hit her, but Lavell grabbed him. Alan quickly turned, swinging at him. Suddenly it seemed everyone in the place was fighting. Raven needed to get out. Fast.

Ian couldn't believe what was happening. He pushed Alan away from him as the entire place went into an uproar. Everyone was hitting someone, and he went to get Raven out. Prescott had recovered and was going toward Raven with malice in his eyes. Her back was turned, she would realize too late until Prescott was upon her. Ian started to make his way over to her, but she turned and quickly gave Prescott a smart upper cut to the jaw. The man went down, dazed, blood coming from a cut on his mouth. Another man swung at Raven, and Ian watched as she took her cane in both of her hands, and smacked him across the face before she sent him a shot to his crotch. The man went down, holding himself, and Ian grabbed Raven's shoulders. She moved to hit him as well, but Ian caught her wrists and turned her to look at him. "We're leaving, Raven," He whispered in her ear. "Now."
He saw her pale almost as white as a ghost before he took her arm and dragged her outside.
Raven's heart sank. Lavell had figured her out. She wondered what he was going to do to her as he led her to a nearby coach and almost threw her inside. He barked a destination to the driver before climbing inside himself. Raven was sparwled across the seat, and as Lavell closed the door she backed away from him. His entire body seemed to strain with barely controlled anger. Suddenly he looked at her and Raven saw fire in his eyes.
"What the hell were you donig?" He demanded.
Raven felt her own anger spread across her quickly. How dare he talk to her like that? How dare he throw her inside like some common whore?
"What does it matter to you?" she retorted hotly.
"You are my fiancee!" he said as if that explained everything.
"Only in pretense! I don't belong to you!"
Lavell ran a hand threw his hair, something that Raven had never seen him do before. "Damn you, woman." He muttered.
"What if Prescott or Alan had figured you out? What do you think that would have done to your reputation?"
"I don't give a damn!" Raven shouted. "Why can't I go out to a pub if I wanted?"
"Because you're a woman." Ian said darkly.
"What's that got to do with it? Just because I'm not a man, it means that I can't go out at night drinking ale and playing cards?"
"You could've gotten hurt," Ian said, obviously trying for calm. "Most women aren't able to protect themselves." "I seemed to do just fine." Raven grumbled.
She saw Ian's hand clench and unclench slowly. She wondered if he were going to hit her. She had heard of some men who hit thier wives as a way of controlling them. She thought of such men as nothing but cowards.
"Go on then," she said heatedly. "If you want to hit me go ahead, but know I will defend myself."
Ian looked at her then took a deep breath. "Are you daft, woman? I'm not going to hit you."
"But you want to," she accused. "I see it in your eyes."
Ian sighed as if he were tired. "No," he said slowly. "I want to shake you for being so stupid. I don't think I've ever met a woman as foolish as you."
Raven moved before she could stop herself. She lunged at Ian ready to strike, but he quickly grabbed her arms, pulling her across his lap. Raven screamed and tried to jerk her arms from his grip, but he held her fast. He held both her wrists in one of his hands, and with the other he gently held the back of her neck so she could look at him. Raven struggled in his grasp, wanting to hit him, when he suddenly pulled her down and kissed her. Raven stopped her futile movements, surprised. She had thought he would scream at her, but to kiss her was something she hadn't expected.
Ian gently worked his mouth over hers until she finally gave into it closing her eyes with a sigh. His lips were warm and soft, and certainly weren't as demanding as Prescott's stolen kisses had been.
Raven moved her lips against his, mimicking his movements. Ian deepened the kiss, pressing his lips a bit more firmly against hers, and Raven felt the tip of his tongue trace across the edge of her lips. He moved his head and laid gentle kisses along the side of her neck, up and down, before coming back to kiss her lips.
Ian hadn't planned on kissing her, it had just happened. He had wanted her to stop struggling, the feel of her body so close to him was making him stiff, and before he knew it his lips were on hers. he was a bit surprised at how quickly she gave in. He was also surprised when she kissed him back. It was obvious that she hadn't kissed many men before, she completely followed his lead. As he kissed her neck he could feel her pulse racing. It excited him and he returned to her sweet lips.
Slowly he released her wrists and let his fingers at her neck massage her gently. He gently traced his tongue across her lips until, slowly, she opened for him and he delved inside. Her mouth was so warm and he gently prodded her with his tongue. He took his hands, and placed them on her hips so that he moved her until she was straddled across his lap. He was hard and full, and he knew she could feel it through her breeches. She was warm there almost hot, and Ian gently pressed himself against her. She let out a soft sound, and Ian pressed harder until she moaned.
Ian rocked his hips, causing his hardness to rub against her, giving Raven all kinds of sensations she had never felt before. Raven moaned again and rocked back, her hands in his hair. She felt his groan in her mouth and she echoed the sound. Ian's hands moved to her carvat, untieing it quickly before unbuttoning her shirt. He placed his hands inside and grunted in surprise when he felt the cloth across her breasts.
"I wondered how you managed that." he whispered in her ear.
Raven shivered as his tongue brushed her ear, and his hands began to unbind her breasts. As the last of the cloth was removed her breasts spilled into his eager hands and she groaned as his thumbs moved across her nipples. He leaned her back a little and lowered his head to taste one. Raven gasped when she felt his mouth on her. He sucked gently then let his tongue move across her nipple back and forth, up and down, then in a circle. He released it then move to the right one giving it the same ministrations. Raven groaned low in her throat until he stopped and began to kiss her once again.
Raven's hands ran through Ian's hair, it was softer than she had thought, and this time she delved her tongue inside his mouth, surprising him again. They're tongues went back and forth, tasting each other.
Ian laid Raven down across the seat of the coach and began to unbutton her breeches with shaky fingers. He pulled them down her legs and placed his hand over her mound before kissing her again, slowly. As his tongue went again inside, his fingers slipped between her legs, finding her wet. He groaned and stroked that wetness until he found the little nub he was seeking. He stroked it gently and chuckled softly when she jerked then moaned. He continued stroking, moving his tongue in and out of her mouth in time with his fingers. Raven's moans grew louder and louder, but were muffled by his kiss. Her hips began to rise, almost urgently as he came up for air.
Raven looked up at him, her eyes the darkest green he had ever seen. "My lord," she breathed. "W-what are you doing to me?"
"Say my name," Ian whispered before kissing her. "I want to hear it come from those sweet lips."
Raven moaned, arching her hips, as his fingers moved faster against her. "I-I can't think." she said.
"Say it, darling." Ian urged, feeling how close she was to the edge. "Say my name, call me Ian."
He stopped stroking only long enough to place one finger inside, then two.
"Oh!" she cried out, rising her hips again. Her head moved from side to side. "I can't-"
"Say it!" Ian moved his fingers deeper inside her until he found just the right spot, and pressed gently on it.
"Ian!" Raven cried. She moved her hips drawing his fingers deeper into her, before rocking against his hand. "Ian, oh yes, yes, Ian!"
Ian groaned and kissed her again, letting her move against his hand. She was so close.
"Please!" She begged, although she had no idea what she begging for. "Please, Ian, oh please!"
Ian moved his fingers faster inside of her, feeling her tightening against him. He pressed on the spot and Raven cried out, pulsating around him.
Raven felt as if her entire body exploded. She continued crying out, calling Ian's name over and over again, as if it were the only thing she knew. She felt as if she weren't solid, but the only thing keeping her together was the feel of Ian's fingers and the tight grip she had on his shoulders. He was her anchor.
As she slowly came back to herself, Ian's lips pressed against her neck. The coach had gone still, and Raven wondered why. Ian moved, drawing his fingers out slowly. She moaned, almost not wanting him to go. She looked up at him, breathing heavy. Ian helped her to sit up and fix her clothes; she was shaking too bad to do it herself. Raven glanced out the window of the coach and saw that they were in the alley near Samantha's garden. She sat next to Ian, the ride had seemed so short but was really quite long. Raven looked over at Ian unsure about what to say. "I'm glad we had this talk," Ian said, breaking the silence. "I trust that next time, you won't go about in such attire ever again late at night, will you?"
Raven shook her head, still not able to find words.
"Good," He tilted her chin up and kissed her lips softly. "You'd best get to bed. I'll still call on you tomorrow."
Raven smiled, almost shyly. Ian helped her out of the coach and followed her over the wall to the door.
"Thank you," she said.
Ian handed her the hat and cane she had left in the coach before kissing her again and bidding her goodnight. Raven walked up the stairs to her room wondering what had just happened. She had felt things she never had before and she wasn't sure what it all meant. She brushed her lips gently where Ian had kissed her and smiled. She would definatly have a good night.

Ian paced in his study, a glass of claret in his hand. He couldn't believe what he had done. He hadn't meant for things to go so far with Raven. He stood in front of the fireplace, thinking of what had just happened. Raven had been so responsive of his touches, so open. He had never imagined that it would be that way with her. Just thinking of what had happened made his blood boil. He still had her womanly scent on his fingers. He wondered how responsive she would've been if they had gone all the way.
He loved the way her face looked when she was in the throes of passion. He had wanted so badly to be inside her at that moment, to feel her passion as it consumed her. Ian let out a groan as he felt himself stiffen at the thought. He gulped down the claret and set the glass on his desk. He reached down and stroked himself through his breeches, thinking of Raven's touch. The taste of her lips, the feel of her body as she arched herself toward him. With a groan Ian quickly unfastened his breeches and took himself in a firm grasp. He stroked himself slowly, moving his hand up and down his rigid staff. His breath came in a gasp as he stroked himself faster, thinking of Raven's breasts, the feel of them, the taste of them. He imagined what it would be like to be sheathed deep inside her as his fingers had been earlier. A ragged groan came from his throat, deep with longing. He began to pant and groan as the thoughts went through his mind, he felt as if his blood were on fire. He cried out as his seed began to spill from him in spurts, followed by a long groan. Once he was spent, Ian sat down and looked at his hand. It was covered with his seed and he smiled to himself. No woman had driven him to such a need in a long time. Then again there wasn't another woman like Raven.
"Well," Samantha said. "Someone has slept late."
Raven sipped her tea and looked up at Samantha. "What do you mean?"
"Usually you go for a morning ride. What kept you up so late that you would forego that?"
Raven turned away feeling her face warm. She couldn't tell Samantha about what had happened last night with Ian. She smiled to herself before she answered, "Nothing out of the ordinary, I assure you."
Samantha smiled. "Yes, well something must have happened. You don't usually smile like that."
Raven sipped her tea without a word.
"Lavell sent word that he will be paying you a call this afternoon." Samantha said, giving Raven a glance.
Raven almost spilled her tea. "Really?"
Samantha tried to hide her smile. "Yes, dear."
Raven stood up quickly. "I should change."
"What for? That's a lovely dress you're wearing?"
Raven looked down at the peacock blue morning dress. "Are you sure?"
"Yes." Samantha said.
"Do you think he will like it?"
"Who? Lavell?" Samantha gave Raven a quizzical look. "Since when did you care about what you looked like in front of a man?"
"Perhaps I should change." Raven went on as if she hadn't heard.
She quickly left the room and Samantha laughed. She had never seen Raven act that way before and she found it endearing. It was always nice to see a young woman in love.

Ian couldn't help but smile at Raven's nervousness. He had thought it would be nice if the two of them took a trip to the musuem. When he had kissed her cheeck gently in greeting, she had shivered at his touch.
"Is somthing the matter?" He asked, as the walked through the rooms looking at the various paintings and sculpters. "No, my lord." Raven said softly. "Why would there be?"
"No reason," He said. "You're just more quiet than usual."
"If I am, my lord, it's just that I have many things on my mind."
Ian smiled. "Such as?" He saw her blush and look away. It made his smile widen and he patted her hand gently. "I understand."
She looked at him. "Do you really? I don't believe I quite understand it myself."
"It's simple-"
"Ravenna!" A voice cried.
Ian and Raven turned to see Serena coming toward them with Prescott in tow. His eye was dark and Raven smiled smugly. "It's so good to see you, and you as well, my lord." Serena said. "It's a fine day is it not?"
"Yes," Raven agreed. "Where is Reginald?"
Serena waved her hand dismissively. "He had some business to take care of, so the duke was gracious enough to escort me even though he had a nasty fall the other night."
Raven looked at him. "Really?" she covered her mouth to hide her smile. Was that really the best he could have come up with? "How did you fall, my lord?"
"I tripped in the dark." Prescott said sternly as if daring her to question him further.
Raven almost wanted to, but Ian gave her hand a squeeze almost in a warning. Raven took the hint and clamped her mouth shut, smiling.
"Well," Ian said. "We must be on our way. Good day to you both." He led Raven away before she had a chance to laugh in the duke's face.
"He tripped in the dark?" Raven said gleefully, when they were out of earshot. "That must have been some fall." "Take a care, Raven," Ian said. "You almost gave yourself away."
Raven waved a hand dismissively. "Come, my lord, Prescot would not have known it was me."
"Still, it would be better if if you conducted yourself in a manner more befitting of your station."
Raven rolled her eyes. She had thought Ian would have known well by now that she could take care of herself. After all last night proved that she was more than able doing so. Her thoughts suddenly went to what had happened in the coach, and Raven could feel herself blush.
She looked at Ian. Had he felt the same thing she had? Did his body tremble at the rememberence of touching her? Raven wanted to ask him these things and many more. She wanted to know if he had felt anything at all last night, or if it had meant nothing at all. She was sure it meant something. A man wouldn't kiss a woman so passionatly or touch her so intimately the way Ian had if it hadn't meant anything. Would he?
Raven wasn't sure to the answers of her inner thoughts, but she did know that she wanted those answers. She wanted to feel that way again in Ian arms, she wanted to be swept away with the passion he brought out of her. Raven knew there were many women who weren't married that experienced these things, but she felt that it was different with Ian. The way he had touched her, kissed her, all these thoughts made her warm inside, making her long for his touch. Raven wanted to explore this passion. If this was one of the pleasures of marrige, which she wanted no part of, then who better than the one who introduced her to it? Raven chewed thoughtfully on her lower lip then glanced at Ian again. Her breath caught when she saw that he was watching her. His gray eyes had gone a bit darker, almost the way they had last night.
"What are you thinking about so hard that it leaves you quiet?" He asked softly.
"Nothing," Raven said. "Nothing at all, my lord."
"That's not true." Lavell said softly.
Raven looked away from his intense stare. "I assure you, it's not something we should discuss here."
"I see." Ian said quietly. "Where would be the best place? The coach perhaps?"
Raven glanced at him, noting his quiet smile before looking away feeling herslef blush all the more.
"Do not tease me, Ian."
"I wasn't teasing, Raven, just an honost question." She could hear the laughter in his voice.
Raven bit her tongue. She didn't want to her anger to get the best of her here. Not with Serena somewhere nearby. She removed her hand from Ian's arm and began walking ahead of him. How dare he tease her on such a delicate subject? Didn't he know how affected she was by what had happened last night?
Men! Raven was outside when Ian finally caught up to her. It was raining, and there seemed to be more people out than when they had first came to the museum. She ignored him as she continued walking down the street. Let him follow her to the ends of the earth for all she cared!
"Raven, wait!"
She ignored him and tried blending into the crowd. Raven pushed her way through people as they rushed past her trying to find shelter. She looked behind her and saw that Ian was keeping pace with her.
Damn him!
Did he thing that he could just dally with her emotions, the way he had last night, as if she were nothing more than a whore? She wouldn't stand for it! She's be damned to hell before she'd let him touch her again. She looked again, and noticed Ian was almost upon her, and took off at a run. Oh, what she would give to be wearing men's clothes again! She could probably out run him if she had. The rain was begining to blind her, and as she swept a hand over her face, she felt tears.
What the hell was happening to her? She would never cry over how a man treated her, why now? Lavell was no different than any other man. She had thought he was, but he proved her wrong as many had.
She continued running, her bonnet slipped to the ground, but she didn't stop. She could get another one. "Raven!" Ian called.
Why couldn't he leave her alone? Why did he have to awaken such thoughts, such desires? She wished he had never touched her.
Someone grabbed her, and sure it was Lavell she lashed out, kicking and punching.
The arm tightened around her, pining her arms at her sides.
"Damn you!" She screamed. "Leave me alone!"
"A fiesty one aren't you, miss?" the man said as he clamped a hand over her mouth.
Raven went still. It wasn't Lavell. Her kidnapper quickly dragged her into an alley, telling her to keep quiet. Raven felt something at her side and knew it was a knife.
Once they were away from prying eyes, the man turned her around.
When she got a good look at him, Raven couldn't believe she had mistaken him for Ian. This man apparently hadn't bathed in weeks, his clothes were filthy. And the smell! Raven wondered why she hadn't noticed it before hand. The man leered at her, showing her the knife.
"Here, now pretty, you're gonna give me your jewels, and anything else of value with no trouble, right?"
Raven glared at him in response.
"Right," The thief said. "Hand 'em over."
"If I do," Raven said. "Will you promise me to use them to get a bath and some decent clothes?"
Before Raven could blink, the man struck her across the face. The force of the blow sent her to the muddy ground, which Raven had decided was this man's sleeping place since they smelled the same. She tasted something coppery in her mouth and knew he had drawn blood.
"The jewels, now, and I'll let you live."
"You haven't got the guts to kill me." Raven spat. She pushed herself off the ground. Her hair hair had come apart from the french twist she Mary painstaking do, and her dress was a ruin. She faced the thief not caring for the knife in his hand.
"Do you want to die?" he said. "Give me what I want, I'm sure Daddy has more where that came from."
"No."
The thief's face looked a bit puzzled. Raven was sure this wasn't going the way he had planned. He thought that just because she was a woman, that she would perhaps cry, beg for her life and do what ever he asked. She smiled. He certainly got the wrong damsel.
Her smile seemed to unerve him. His face pinched in a frown and he demanded once again that she hand over her jewelry.
Raven looked over his shoulder, seeing Lavell, and frowned. Another thing to rub in her face. When this was over she knew he would lecture her on the dangers of running off alone. She didn't want to hear it. Quickly before the thief had time to react Raven balled her fist and punched him squarly in the nose. She heard something break, and smiled before giving him a swift kick to the groin.
The thief crumpled to the muddy ground, holding his nose in one hand, and his privates in the other. Raven walked past him without so much as a glance.
Lavell stood there waiting for her, her bonnet in his hands. She walked past him too, without a word, then hailed down a coach.
"Raven,"
"I don't have anything to say to you, Lavell."
Ian flinched at the coldness in her tone. She was stoically looking out the window as they went on their way home. "I only wanted to say well done."
Raven looked at him then. It chilled him to see her look at him so angry. She looked like some wild thing with her hair in complete disarray and her clothes a muddied mess. He had offered her his coat but she had declined it, seeming to be content as a chill set in. He removed his coat and placed it around her.
"I'm sorry." He said softly.
Raven scoffed and turned to the window.
"I really am sorry, Raven. I didn't think you would run off."
Silence.
"What got you so upset?"
Raven drew his coat tighter around her and continued to stare out the window.
Ian sighed. "Now you wont talk to me? I must have done something horrible."
Raven sniffed, but made no reply. At least she was still wearing his coat. She couldn't be that mad, or maybe she was that cold. Ian knew that his teasing her had upset her, he just couldn't understand why. He wished she would say something, anything that would let him know what was going on in that head of hers. He also knew that she was expecting him to lecture her, and maybe that was why she was so silent. Ian took her hand, finding it as cold as her tone had been.
"Raven, please."
"What do you want?" She said.
"I want to know what's going on?"
Raven looked at him. "Why would you do that? Did it mean nothing to you?"
Ian wasn't sure what she was talking about.
"Last night," she continued. "I let you touch me. I let you do things I've never let anyone do. I felt things I've never felt before, then you tease me. Why? Did you feel anything at all last night?"
Ian sighed. He had felt more than she would ever know, but he couldn't tell her that. His main job was to protect her, that was all.
At his silence, Raven turned to the window again. Ian knew this was the only chance he had if he wanted to soothe her bruised ego.
"Yes." He said.
"What?" She turned to him.
"Yes, Raven, I felt it last night. I felt things I hadn't thought I would feel."
"You're just teasing me again."
"No," Ian said softly. "I shouldn't have teased you. You're probably confused about everything, I'm sorry."
"Sorry about what? That you teased me, or that you touched me?"
Ian sighed. "Damn it, Raven, you can't take me at my word can you?"
"Why should I?" She said.
Ian pulled her toward him, until she was across his lap. He placed his lips on hers, without really thinking of what he was doing. Raven went tense in arms, but as his kisses became more insistant, she relaxed and wrapped her arms around him. Ian delved his tongue into her mouth, feeling her warmth. Quickly he pushed his hands underneath her dress and undergarments until he could feel the liquid warmth of her. Raven moaned as he stroked her gently, finding the little nubbin, and using her own moist heat to make his fingers slippery against it.
"No, stop." She pleaded weakly, and Ian continued to stroke her until her hands clenched his shoulders. When he felt she was close he stopped, and placed her warmth over his groin.
"This is what you do to me!" he whispered fiercely, bucking his hips against her. "Do you feel that, darling? This is what I feel everytime I'm near you. How can you accuse me of feeling nothing?"
Ian continued to rock his hips against her, wanting desperatly to be inside her. He knew he was hitting just the right spot by the way she clung to him. "Ian!" Raven whispered hotly. "I can't take it anymore!"
Ian gave one final thrust before Raven cried out, digging her fingers into shoulders. "Ian!" She exclaimed, as her body began to shudder against him. Ian held her close, kissing her softly, until her breathing slowed. He lifted her off his lap and gently placed her beside him. His blood was on fire, and he wasn't sure how long he could wait before his desire consumed him. Raven put her head on his shoulder, and Ian closed his eyes. Again, he had almost come too close to losing control. When he had placed her on his lap and felt her warmth, he wanted nothing more than to rip open his breeches and bury himself inside her. He wanted to feel her heat surround him, engulf him. He had to get control of himself. He couldn't allow himself to be reckless. No matter how tempting the wild seductress sitting next to him was.
Raven could feel how tense Ian was. She hadn't known she had such affect on him. She wondered why he had never taken her when he had the chance. Just like last night he could have done anything he wanted to her, and Raven wasn't sure if she would have stopped him. And now, again, he held himself back. If he felt the same kind of passion as she, it must have taken a lot of control to withhold himself. She looked up at his still face. He had closed his eyes, seeming to be asleep, but Raven knew better. He knew everything that was going on, she could tell. She looked down and noticed that he was still full against his breeches. She looked up at his face again and placed her hand on his thigh, close to the bulge in his lower region. He didn't stir nor did he open his eyes. Tentatively, Raven placed her hand over him, feeling his body grow even more tense if that were possible. She looked up at his face again and saw his eyes watching her.
"What are you doing, Raven?" His voice sounded strained.
Raven moved her hand over the bulge, feeling its warmth and hardness. She moved to unfasten his breeches, but Ian covered her hand with his own.
"Don't." It was a soft warning. "Why not?" Raven asked.
Ian closed his eyes briefly as Raven squeezed him. "I don't know if I'll be able to control myself."
"Don't worry, Ian," Raven said softly. "sometimes a loss of self control can be a good thing." she smiled.
He didn't say anything as she continued to massage his organ. Raven's smile widened. She unfastened his breeches and placed her hand inside. She was surprised at how large he felt. She moved her hand over him, feeling how warm and firm it was. Ian took her hand from him then, to her dismay. She wanted to feel more of him.
She looked up at him. "What's worng?"
"This isn't the place to do this, Raven." He sais as he righted his clothing.
"But I want to."
Ian smiled. "Really?"
"Well, yes. That's what I wanted to tell you today. Ian, I've been thinking about it since last night. I'll never know the pleasure a man and woman can have together when this whole thing is over, and I thought..." She looked away from his intense gaze.
"That you would want to explore this with me?" Ian finished for her.
Raven smiled shyly. "Yes. I mean if we are to be married, then why can't we?"
"Raven, this isn't like one of your nights on the town. There are many things that could happen."
Raven gave him an exhasperated look. "I'm not some chit fresh out of the school room, Ian. I know what could happen." "And you still want to do this?"
"Yes. I know there are ways to prevent such things from happening."
Ian raised a brow. "How did you come to know such things?"
Raven rolled her eyes. "Do men think that women don't talk about these things? We may not do it in the public eye, but we do talk about it."
"I'm only looking out for you, Raven. There could be...discomfort, even pain."
"I know, Ian. I am willing to go through with this if you are. If not, then I suppose I'll just never know these things."
Ian gave her a quzzical look. The coach had stopped in front of Samantha's home, and Ian got out, turning to help Raven.
"We'll speak more of this tonight," He said as he led her to the door.
Raven smiled. "Is that a yes?"
"I'm thinking about it. Now you'll have to change out of that dress before someone sees you."
Raven stood on tiptoe and planted a chaste kiss on his cheek. "It's raining and there's hardly anyone out. Who could possible see me?"

They watched as Raven went inside and Ian left.
"You told me he would kill her!" Serena said angrily.
"Patience, my love. We can't have her killed right away. I've had my sights on something bigger."
"Who?" she asked.
"Lavell, of course, is part of the problem now. We must be rid of him first before the plan can be complete."
"This is getting to be too much, Prescott! It wasn't supposed to go this way."
"Nothing is ever that easy, darling. We'll both get what we want in the end."
"Do you promise?"
Prescott leaned toward her and kissed her full on the mouth. Serena sighed against his lips giving herself up to the kiss.
"I promise." He said softly. "Now let's get out of this dreadful rain. You said that your husband won't be home for a few more hours, did you not?"
Serena smiled. "This will be almost like the wedding night with you making love to me in my husband's bed."
"That will soon be mine, darling." Prescott kissed her again.

Ian watched as Raven talked to her brother and Samantha. He couldn't believe that she wanted to do this. He wasn't sure if it would be a good idea, but he knew that if he didn't have Raven soon, he'd explode. That woman did things to him no other woman had. He had always found himself in complete control of every situation. With Raven, he was never quite sure what to expect. One minute she could be as docile as a kitten, and the next as firece as a tigress. She fascinated him. He found himself caring more and more for her with each passing day. He wondered what it would be like if this wasn't a farce, and that Raven would truely be his wife. She had made her intentions quite clear, though, on how she felt about marrige. He wasn't sure what Alverton thought might happen. So far nothing out of the ordinary had happened.
He went toward the little group and stood next to Reginald.
"I wondered if I might borrow your brother for a moment, my dear?"
Raven looked at him, a smile on her face. She seemed to always be smiling at him lately, as is she couldn't help herself.
"Of course, Ian." she said.
Ian led Alverton away until he was sure they would not be heard.
"What is it?" Reginald said.
"I don't know if I can continue on like this, Reggie." He said. "That woman is completely out of control! The other night she went to a gambling hell in men's clothes. Where would she get such things?"
Reginals smiled. "Probably from me. Mother would teach her to sew on the clothes I out grew. You say she went to a gambling hell? What for?"
"I don't know." Ian sighed. "Prescott and his brother were there."
Regainald looked amused. "I take it you got her out?"
"After she started a brawl where she knocked a few men to the floor."
Reginald's face began to darken and it was obvious to Ian he was trying hard to contain his laughter. "Is that how Prescott's eye-"
"Yes." Ian said shortly.
"I should have known," Reginald said. "it's Raven's trademark."
"This is no laughing matter, Reginald." Ian said testily.
"What would you have me do?" Reginald asked.
"We have to be married as soon as possible. Maybe by the end of the Season perhaps?"
"Why so soon?" He gave his friend a puzzled look.
Ian sighed. He couldn't tell his friend the real reason why he wanted to marry Raven as soon as possible. The only way to give Raven what she wanted was for them to be married. He couldn't afford to have any accidents happen if they weren't. The scandel would be catastrophic, and Raven would probably blame him for it.
He glanced at Raven who was busy talking to Samantha. Her eyes suddenly met his, and Ian felt something in his chest give a jolt. She smiled and looked away.
"I see." Reginald said softly.
"What?" Ian frowned.
"She's gotten under your skin, hasn't she?"
"I don't know what you mean." He said briskly.
Reginald smiled. "Of course not. Most men can't when it hits them."
"When what hits them?" Ian's frown deepened. "You're talking in riddles, Reginald."
"My sister is quite taken with you, Ian." Reginald nodded to himself. "I'll see what I can do, don't worry."

Raven looked at Ian in complete shock. She set down her tea cup firmly, trying to decide what to say.
"This is wonderful news!" Samantha said happily.
They were in the drawing room having tea when Ian was announced. She hadn't known he was coming. Since Samantha's last party, she hadn't heard much from Ian. She had wondered what he had been up to, and now she knew.
"You want to marry me tomorrow morning?" She said slowly.
"Yes," Ian said. "everything has been arranged."
Raven stood and paced around the room. "Tomorrow morning?"
"That's what I said."
"Now, Raven," Samantha said. "this is a good thing. Try to look happy, won't you?"
Raven gave a small smile. "I suppose." She hadn't thought this would happen so fast. She wanted time to think about this, to breathe. She knew the plan. Raven knew that she and Ian would have to marry, and that soon her money would be hers. She should be happy, but for some reason she didn't think her time with Ian would be so short. As soon as everything was settled and the money was hers, she planned to leave. Now those thoughts seemed so far far away, as if it were a very long time ago. She looked at Ian and sighed. "All right," she said. "I'll meet you at the church tomorrow morning."
Ian studied her face for a moment and Raven looked away. She didn't want him to think that she had changed her mind. "Wonderful!" Samantha said. She hugged Raven tightly before hugging Ian. "This wedding will be the talk of the Season."
Ian couldn't help but think that Raven wasn't completely happy about the wedding. She seemed distant, talking very little for the rest of the afternoon. He suggested a ride in the park to help get her mind off things.
Raven sat atop her gray gelding, not really seeing things around her. Ian brought his stallion next to her.
"What's wrong?" He asked.
"Nothing, my lord." Raven said, giving him a quick smile. "Everything is fine."
"Raven, do you still want to marry me?"
"What makes you say that, my lord?" Raven laughed. "Of course I want to marry you. Everything is going according to plan, is it not?"
"It is," Ian agreed. "Why then don't you look happier? I'm giving you what you want."
"I know," Raven said softly. "I just didn't think it would be so soon."
"Do you want to keep playing this game a little longer?"
Raven shook her head. "No, my lord. I tire of this game."
Ian frowned slightly. "That's twice you have not said my given name. It makes me think you are angry with me."
"No. I...have a lot to think about." she gave him a soft smile. "I trust you understand?"
Ian knew there was something wrong. It was obvious that Raven wasn't going to tell him, probably because of the public setting, but he made a mental note to figure out what it was later.
Raven urged her mount at a quicker pace, wishing she were back home. Whenever something bothered her, she would get a horse and ride as fast as she could. The feel of the wind blowing her hair, feeling the strength of her horse, all these helped to melt her problems away. Even if it was just for an instant. She didn't want things to end so soon with Ian. She truely enjoyed the time they spent together, and the few months that have passed seemed so short. Perhaps this wouldn't have to end. Perhaps she could continue to be married to Ian even after she had gotten the money.
Raven sighed. That was wishful thinking. He wouldn't want to stay married to her, what with her reckless behavior, and unconventional ways. He would rather much prefer someone more like Serena, someone who would do as she was told by her husband. Someone who would be content staying home while her husband dallied throughout the night. Raven wasn't that kind of woman. Far from it, and it was no surprise that she didn't want to marry. Besides, if everything worked out the way it should, she'll have her money in a few months. In the meantime, Ian would be hers, if only for a little while. Raven would just have to make the best of it, and have Ian teach her about this unknown passion.

"Darling, it has to be tonight!" Serena said. "Once they say thier vows everything will be ruined."
They were at the home of Lady Sheffield. She had wanted to throw a wedding party for Raven and Lavell in the hopes of upstaging the Callow's ball.
Prescott watched the dancing couple soon to be married. "Don't worry, my sweet. The plans have changed a bit, that's all."
"Changed how? You still haven't explained it to me." Serena mumbled.
"What do you think would happen if we got Lavell out of the way first, then continued with the plan? We'd be rich!"
Serena frowned. "Prescott, what are you saying?"
"It's just going to take more time."
"I don't know if I can wait any longer!" Serena said. She grabbed Prescott's arm then looked to see if they might be overheard. When she was sure they wouldn't, she leaned into Prescott. "Do you know how horrible it is wanting to be only in your arms? To feel only your lips, and able to have neither?"
Prescott turned to her. "I know this is hard on you, Serena, but more time is required. Just think of the rewards."
"It's the only thing that keeps me going." She replied softly.
"Your husband's coming." Prescott took her hand and kissed it quickly. "Only a while longer, I promise."
"Here you are." Reginald stepped onto the balcony. "I had wondered where you'd gone, Serena."
Serena quickly whipped open her fan. "I had gotten hot from dancing and when I couldn't find you, Prescott kindly escorted me here."
Reginald turned to the man. "I thank you."
"No need," Prescott smiled. "I'm always willing to help a friend."
Reginald smiled. "Yes, and you always seem to be there don't you?"
Serena looked from one man to the other. "Darling," she took Reginald's arm. "Why don't we go inside for some drinks?" She turned to Prescott. "Thank you for escorting me."
"It was my pleasure." Prescott gave a small bow.

Pink was the color Raven had chosen tonight. As usual Ian noticed it was not the usual soft pink most women wore, but a dazzling, almost blinding color. He couldn't understand why Raven couldn't wear something more subdued, but then the colors she wore were almost like her. Bold and daring, much like the low bodice of her gown. She had danced almost every set with him and it seemed she didn't want to leave his side for too long. He found the change a little endearing, but also a bit bothersome. It only served to prove again that something was the matter, and Raven didn't really seem in the mood to talk about it. He had tried more than once to get her to tell him what was on her mind, but she only laughed at him or told him that he was being silly. He almost regretted that thier time together would be ending soon. He realized he almost looked forward to seeing what outrageous color she would wear, or what she would do when they were close. The slight blush that spread across her features whenever he touched her hand or gently brushed his lips against it, made him think of the completely different woman she could be when filled with passion. It made him swell just thinking about it and he knew she had felt it once or twice as they danced. She would briefly press her body against his as if letting him know that she knew. Her eyes would turn the darkest shade of emerald he had ever seen before she would blush and look away.
He almost wanted this to be thier wedding night so that he wouldn't have to wait to be inside her. He was sure he could wait one more night, he would have to.
Raven stepped back and began to fan herself. "Let's get some air, Ian." She said softly.
Ian nodded and they went out onto the balcony. He could feel the swelling through his clothes and let out a soft moan.
"What's the matter, Ian?" Raven asked.
Ian stepped into a dark corner where he was sure they wouldn't be seen, pulling Raven with him. Once they were concealed, Ian took her hand and placed it over himself. Raven looked down at her hand then smiled before meeting his eyes.
"I see." She said softly. "Why don't you take me now? We only have one more night anyway." She massaged her hand over him gently.
Ian drew in a sharp breath. "I can't."
"Afraid to loose control, Ian?" Raven gave a chuckle. "There must be some way I can ease your pain."
Ian looked her, wondering if she were serious. As she continued to move her hand against him, she gave a little squeeze that almost sent him over the edge. Ian removed her hand and led her down the steps toward the famous gardens.
"Don't you think we're going to missed, Ian?" Raven said with a laugh.
"Do you really think I care?" Ian led her though the twists and turns of the maze until they reached the spot where Prescott had her a few months ago. Ian sat next to Raven on the bench after making sure they weren't followed.
"Taking a bit of a risk, aren't we?" Raven smiled.
"I thought you liked risk, Raven?" He took her hand again and kissed her palm.
"Ian-" He shushed her by placing his lips gently against hers.
Once again he guided her hand to that hard part of him. "I don't know if I can stand it any longer." he said in hushed tones. "I need to feel you."
"Ian." Raven whispered against his lips.
Quickly, Ian removed himself from his breeches and placed Raven's hand on him. "I need to feel you, Raven." He guided her hand along his shaft in long smooth strokes.
Raven was a bit surprised that Ian seemed to want this. Especially here, now, like this. He was so hot in her hand and she stroked him up and down. It was much larger than the last time, it seemed. Ian groaned as she continued to move her hand slowly upward then swiftly down. She squeezed him gently, wondering what it would be like to have him buried deep inside her moist heat. Would it all fit? Surely it was too big for that. She could barely close her fingers around it as she stroked him.
"Raven!" Ian whispered hotly, claiming her lips once more. His tongue entered her mouth, and she lost all thought. The only thing that seemed to matter was the feel of him in her hand, the feel of his mouth on hers. As his kisses became more urgent, Raven stroked him faster, keeping in pace as his tongue went in and out of her mouth. He reached up and massaged her breast, brushing his thumb across her budding nipple. Raven moaned, feeling Ian growing firmer in her hand. A soft grunt escaped his lips as he squeezed her hand tighter against him. His tongue moved faster and faster, and Raven's hand moved faster and faster until Ian gave another grunt, louder than the first. Raven saw his seed spill from him, and he made another sound before going into heavy pants. She removed her hand from his organ, now gone soft, and looked at him.
So that's what it 's like for men, she thought.
"I'm sorry," Ian said once he had righted himself. "I hadn't meant to do that." He looked at her then kissed her softly. "I never meant to lose control like that."
"It's all right." Raven said, smiling softly. "Why don't we go back inside?"
Ian couldn't believe he had done that. Whenever he was with Raven he always felt his hard won control slipping away from him, ans he did things he never intended to. He cursed himself softly. Why couldn't he control himself? What was it about that woman that made him go completely crazy?
Once they were back inside the brightly lit ballroom, Raven pretended as if nothing had happened. She still stayed by his side, laughing and talking to the other guests, dancing with him or her brother.
He watched as she danced again with Reginald, laughing at something he had said to her. He didn't want to give her up, he decided then. He didn't want to marry her only to have her leave him when she had the money. He realized he wantd her to stay with him. It was more than just that he was protecting her.
He was in love with her.
Ian gave a start at the thought. He was in love with her. He couldn't let her know that. She didn't want to be tied down to any man through marrige. She wanted to be left alone, but that didn't mean that Ian couldn't make her change her mind. He smiled to himself, likeing the way that sounded. He loved her.
Ian Sinclaire was in love with the enchanting Miss Ravenna Montegomery, and tomorrow she would be his wife.

Raven paced back and forth, oblivious to her maid who was trying fervently to place a pin on her gown.
How did Lavell ever expect her to be ready with barely a two day notice? Weddings took time to plan, didn't they? She had always thought so. Most women spent months getting everything ready for thier special day, but not her. Raven didn't even know why she had wanted to have a gown made. She had plenty of clothes she could have worn today, but she wanted the beautiful cream colored gown her mother had given her. It had only needed a few alterations, and she never thought white looked good with her complexion. It always made her look ghostly.
"M'am," her maid, Rose, said with a heavy sigh. "You ought to stay still. I only have one pin left."
"I'm sorry, Rose." Raven said when she realized her maid had spoken. "I'll try to stay still."
Rose smiled. "It's only to be expected, m'am." she said. "How often does somebody get to marry thier true love?"
Raven frowned. "Who said anything about that?" she said.
"Why else would you be so nervous then? I've seen the way you look at him, m'am. He's very handsome and if you don't mind my sayin' so, I think he's quite taken with you too."
"What makes you say that?"
Rose blushed at Raven's intent stare. "It's none of my business, m'am. None at all."
Raven studied the woman. "Tell me." she said
"Well he's always talking to your brother about you. More than a few times, I imagine."
"What do they talk about?" Raven asked.
Rose looked away. "I don't know if I should be the one-"
"Tell me!" Raven grasped the woman's arm. "Please."
"Well," Rose hesitated. "I heard your brother asking him to take care of you. Something about having you come to London with him so's he can figure out something."
Raven looked at her maid in disbelief. Reggie had wanted to get rid of her. She had known that Serena didn't want her to stay too much longer, but to have her own brother plot for a way to get her out of his home, their childhood home no less!
And Lavell. He had her believe that he was really looking to take a wife, but he was only helping Reginald.
That bastard! She fumed. He's just as bad as her brother. Raven could feel her hand clench into a fist. She'd be damned if she would marry him!
Raven started her pacing again. She couldn't believe that her brother or Lavell would do this her. Trick her into leaving her home. Men! None of them could be trusted, even those like Ian. What did Lavell gain for even helping Reginald?
She would have to find out. The only way to do that was to ask him, and the only chance she would have to ask him would be after they were married.
Raven sighed, annoyed. Well she still needed Lavell for her plan to work. She would still have to marry him. Afterward she'll just continue her plan as usual. She'll take the money and leave. For all he knew that was what she still intended.

Chapter 4

Ian watched Raven walk around and speak to the guests. A moment ago he would have been certain that she was angry for some reason. The wedding had went off without a hitch. It was the biggest romace of London. Everyone had wanted to attended, but at Reginald's insistance, it was kept very small. The party Lady Sheffield was having in honor of thier union was quite a turnout. He hadn't expected to see so many people. If he had to hear one more guest whisper "I never thought I'd see the day Ravenna Montegomery married." he'd scream. He could certainly see why his new wife, even if it was a farce, liked her country home so much. There were less tongues wagging when you weren't surrounded by so many people. It was the same reason he loved the sea.
Raven mingled with the guests easily, just as long as she avoided her husband, the bastard. He didn't seem to notice the she was avoiding him. He seemed...content. Raven kept a smile on her face, but she didn't want to be here any longer. She wanted to know what Lavell was all about. She saw her brother talking with Lavell. Mayhap they were plotting something else against her.
She started making her way toward them when she felt a hand on her arm. She looked and saw Prescott. "What?" She said testily. "I only wanted to congratulate you, my dear. I see you have done exactly what you said you would."
"I told you I would never marry you." Raven hissed for his ears alone. "I meant it."
"There's still time," Prescott said. "I haven't given up yet." He walked away leaving Raven puzzled by what he had said.
There was still time? How could there still be time if she was already married? Raven shook her head and continued toward her brother. The two were in deep conversation, and didn't seem to notice her approach. Raven let the large crowd hide her as she made her way closer to them. They were standing near the open windows of the balcony that led to the gardens. As Raven came closer she could hear what they were saying.
"You haven't found out anything?" Reginald asked Lavell.
The other man shook his head. "I think this whole thing of someone trying to kill you and your sister was a farce, Reg."
"Much like this marrige, eh?" Reginald chuckled.
Lavell shrugged. "No on needs know that. I do believe that I helped your sister with her more persistant problem. Prescott hasn't tried anything yet." His eyes narrowed as he saw Prescott across the room.
"You believe he would try something?" Reginald asked. "At your own wedding party?"
"I wouldn't put too much past the man. How long have you said your wife knew him?"
Reginald shrugged. "Long before I came along. It was my belief that at one time his parents tried to force a marrige between them, but Serena didn't want to. We were in love and wanted to marry, Prescott's family didn't have much money. It was squandered away by his gambling uncle. They hoped to have thier son marry into money, but Serena's parents had thier eye on me at the time. Serena and Prescott had grown up together. I guess she just didn't want to tarnish thier friendship."
Ian looked thoughful for a moment. "I see. Is that why she introduced her childhood friend to your sister?"
Reginald shrugged again. "I suppose. The man came into money on his own, but not much. I suspect he may still be looking for an hieress."
Raven's eyes widened at what she had just heard. Her brother hadn't want to send her away after all. He was only trying to protect her. Raven frowned. Why would someone want to kill her brother, or even her for that matter? She didn't have any enemies. Oh, certainly there were people who didn't like her, mainly because of her "wild" ways, but not enough to kill her. At least she hoped so. Raven looked at Prescott who was dancing with Serena. He seemed to be in her company more than was decent, lately. She wondered if Ian suspected Prescott of being the one trying to kill her brother. It woudn't gain Prescott anything to get rid of Reginald. Would it?

Raven wanted to find out.

Raven paced the room later that night. It was her wedding night after all and her husband hadn't come to bed yet. Now that she knew what was going on, she wasn't angry anymore, and it made her wonder if she really wanted to continue with her plan. As long as she staye married to Ian, she could help him figure out who wanted to kill her brother. She supposed they could stay married for at least a year. But if a child is produced in this marrige, then it might be best if they refrained...
Raven turned toward the window. Ian wouldn't agree to it. She knew he wouldn't, not after all they had done. She shivered as she thought about it. She craved his touch, she knew, but would she be able keep herself from going too far? Would she be able to deny Ian?
The sound of the door opening startled Raven. She turned and saw Ian leaning against the doorway that connected her room to the master bedroom. The candlelight showed his gray dressing gown to be the same color as his eyes. The storm could color of his eyes rested on her and he smiled. Raven didn't move. She felt trapped by his gaze, and pulled her wrapper tighter around herself. She had found the wrapper on the pillows when she had come in to dress for bed. There was note from Ian, he had given her a wedding gift. It wasn't usual for the groom to give the bride a wedding gift. She had lifted up the silk wrapper, liking the feel of it in her hands.
"Goodevening." He said.
"Goodevening, my lord." Raven said as Ian walked into the room.
"I trust you find the gift I left you satisfactory?" He said softly. He let gently brushed his fingers on her vainity. He carefully kept his eyes from looking at hers.
"Yes," Raven said. "I love it, thank you."
"Really?" He asked.
"Very much, my lord." Raven wet her lips, feeling a bit nervous. She knew it was silly, after the things Ian had made her feel, but she felt it none the less. Ian seemed to pick up on this, and kept a bit away from her. His eyes traveled up her body slowly. They briefly paused at the juncture between her legs, before continuing on to linger on the swell of her breasts, and finally coming to rest on her face. Raven felt the heat creep up her face and turned away from him. She shouldn't be feeling like this, no man should make her feel this.
Ian smiled, the light in his eyes telling her he was amused by this, and she felt her face grow hotter. Damn him! She seethed inwardly. Doesn't he even feel this way?
Ian took the final step that brought him to stand in front of her. Raven looked up at him, unsure what to do. It didn't seem to matter once Ian leaned toward her for a kiss. His lips were firm, but gentle. Raven sighed against his lips, melding herself against him. His hands went into her hair and he gently massaged her scalp as he plunged his tongue inside her mouth. He groaned when Raven eagerly accepted him, stroking his tongue with her own. Ian deepened the kiss, sweeping her in his arms and carrying her to the bed. He placed her down, his lips never leaving hers. Raven clung to him, a soft sound escaping her as his hands roamed over her body. He took her breasts in his hands, the globes full and larger than most women of the ton, and squeezed them softly. His thumbs brushed her nipples and he was rewarded with a soft gasp. He pulled back from the kiss and looked down at her. Her eyes had turned to the darkest jade he had ever seen. No jewels could ever capture the beauty he saw in them. He removed the wrapper from her shoulders, sliding the silk against her skin until she shivered. He kissed the hollow at her throat, moving along her collar bone until he reached her shoulder. He pushed down the wrapper until it became trapped beneath her arms, pushing the straps of her gown along with it. With her breasts bared to his veiw he gazed at them almost hungrily before bending his head to sample the pert treasure that practically begged for him to take it into his mouth.
"Ian," Raven sighed, her hands going through his hair. She had never known that such pleasure could come from something like that. Ian seemed to be working some kind of magic on her as he sucked her breast. The feeling made things low in her body tighten and her hands clenched in his hair. It felt so good, then he surprised her by biting gently on the hardned, tingling bud. Raven gasped again as he bit down harder. She made a small whimpering sound and he released his captive and moved his head to the other one. His hand stroked and massaged the one he abandoned, his fingers pinching the nipple. Raven writhed on the bed as she felt her body grown warm. When Ian realsed her other breast he brought his lips to her again, and Raven kissed him hungrily. He broke the kiss to remove Raven's clothes.
She sat up. "It isn't fair for me to be the only one without clothes." She tugged at his dressing gown.
Ian smiled. He stood beside the bed and removed his garment. Raven looked at him, her eyes traveling from his face to the hard contours of his chest, surprised at how utterly smooth his skin looked. Her eyes continued thier journey down his muscled stomach, narrow waist where a trail of hair led down his groin. Her eyes lingered there for a moment. She knew he was large from the times she had felt it, but looking at it was a different story all together. She looked at Ian. "Are you sure that's going to fit?" She looked at him uncertainly.
Ian laughed, a deep husky sound. "Oh, I'm sure darling."
Raven looked at him disbelieveingly. "It's so large, and I'm so small. You might break me."
Ian leaned toward her, kissing her lips softly. "I'll be careful not to."
Raven let her hands follow the path her eyes had went, before moving to kiss him the same way he had done. She splayed her hands on his chest, for balance as well as to touch him. She traced her tongue around the muscle of his chest in large circles, making it smaller and faster as she neared his nipple. She bit down, a little harder than he had and when he cried out she did the same to the other one. She looked up at him, her mouth locked onto his body as she flicked her tongue back and forth over it. She then kissed her way down his stomache letting her tongue delve into the indention of his navel. She slid to her knees, pausing at the engorged part of him to look up at him again. His eyes had gone the deepest gray as he looked down at her. His breathing had become a bit labored, almost as if he were tired. She smiled at him, feeling wicked and good at the same time. Ian groaned as she looked at him, placing his hands deep into her hair. Gently he pulled her toward him, never taking his eyes off her or her off his.
Raven opened her mouth flicking her tongue tentaively.
"Yes, darling, yes." He hissed, continuing to draw her forward.
Raven took him in her mouth, causing him to gasp. She rolled her tongue around him, testing the feel of him in her mouth, the taste of him. He completely filled her and she briefly wondered if he would fill her just as much somewhere else. Ian sucked in a sharp breath and Raven looked up at him again. His eyes were tightly closed, mouth gone slack. She would have smiled if she could. Instead she moaned her enjoyment, and Ian gasped again. She moved against him, using her tongue and lips to pleasure him. Ian's hands tightened her hair, and soon he pulled her away from her.
"Not yet," He sai hoarsely. "There's more I want from you." He pulled her up firmly placing his lips on hers. Raven moaned letting her tongue entwine with his. Ian broke the kiss and laid her back on the bed. He spread her thighs, alternating between kissing the soft flesh and biting it gently, until he came to her core. He stroked her wetness until he found the little nub. Raven raised her hips as he massaged the sensitive bud. He bent his head, replacing his finger with his tongue. Raven cried out, pressing herself against him as he sucked and stroked.
"Yes!" She cried out. "Yes, yes, yes!" Her hands were in his hair, nails practically digging into his scalp. Ian placed one finger inside her then another. He moved his fingers in time with his mouth as Raven writhed above him. Her moans and cries grew louder when he inserted a third finger. He knew when she was close even before she started pulling on his hair.
"Say my name, darling," He said huskily. "Let me hear it from those sweet lips." He drove his fingers harder and faster into her, pressing onto that spot he knew so well.
Raven threw her head back and forth, her hips rising and falling with his hand. She moaned deep in her throat and Ian slowed his pace. "Say it, sweet." He said. "Say my name."
Her body clenched tightly on his fingers before she cried, "Ian! Ian! Ian!" she continued to say his name over and over again until the last tremors escaped her body and she lay still. Ian climbed up her body, kissing her deeply, the taste of her still fresh on his lips. Raven moaned softly as her tongue went into his mouth. Ian's hand continued to stroke her as he positioned himself on top of her. She moaned again when he eased his fingers out of her and started to push that hard part of him inside of her. Raven stiffened, he felt too large. Ian kissed her again.
"Relax, sweetheart. I'll be gentle, I promise." He whispered.
Raven tried to relax, but the feel of him easing himself into her made her nervous. Ian was breathing heavily, pushing only part of himself in before darwing out, and doing it again placing more and more in each time. She was so tight, he almost couldn't stand it. When he was half way in he stopped. Sweat had formed on his brow, and Raven wondered if he would ever fit. He looked down at her, giving her a reassuring smile. "This is going to hurt, love. I want you to brace yourself."
Raven nodded and Ian shoved himself the rest of the way in with a grunt.
Raven couldn't have braced for the pain even if she had tried hard. It was almost too much, making her cry out and bringing tears to her eyes. How could anything hurt this much? He filled her so much, Raven thought he would rip her in two. Her nails bit into Ian's arms, and she wondered if she drew blood. Ian's eyes were closed, he looked like he was hurt. Raven began to feel panic blossom in her chest, but then he said hoarsely, "Are you alright, my love?" He opened his eyes to look at her.
Raven nodded and licked her lips. Ian held himself above her watching her face intently. The feel of her feminine walls molding itself around him almost sent him over the edge. He clenched his teeth trying to hold it in.
"You said some pain. That was more than some." Raven said a bit angrily.
Ian smiled. "Let me make it better for you, love." He drew out of her slowly and just as slowly went back inside.
Raven gasped, not sure if she liked it. As he continued to move above her, the feeling changed. She felt herself opening to him, widening for him. She moaned raising her hips to meet his thrusts. Ian took that as a sign and began to move faster, harder. Again Raven clung to him, this time as pleasure took over her body once more.
"Am I hurting you?" Ian panted above her.
Raven shook her head, words lost to her. She wrapped her arms around his neck drawing him down for a kiss. Ian moaned deeply against her lips, holding her to him. Raven wrapped her legs around him, wanting more of him, her skin on fire for him. Her lips found the side of his neck and she kissed him there before biting him gently. Ian grunted, his body jerked against her. He looked at her with surprise etched on his face. He didn't give her time to speak though, he drove himself into her again and again, making Raven cry out. She hadn't thought it could feel this good. Most women made it seem as if only the men enjoyed these things and it was a woman's duty to oblige her husband. Then again those women didn't have Ian for a husband. Ian's pace quickened and Raven felt the familiar tightening telling her she was close.
"Wait." Ian begged. He must have felt it too. "Wait, not yet, darling." he quickened his pace once more and Raven clung harder to him, trying to will her body to slow its tightening.
"Wait." His voice was strained. "Almost there."
Raven wasn't sure how long she could hold it back. If Ian kept thrusting into her like that she knew she wouldn't be able to control it. When she knew she couldn't hold it off any longer, Ian's body jerked against hers. "Now."
Holding it seemed to make it more intense, more powerful. Raven cried out, thrusting her body hard against him, her nails streaking down his back. She vaguely felt the warmth of Ian's seed fill her.
Both of thier breathing was labored and Ian collapsed beside her, still buried within her. Raven lay still as the feeling left her body, leaving her tingling. She turned toward Ian who had closed his eyes. If it wasn't so obvious that he was breathing, Raven would have wondered if she had killed him. "Ian?" She stroked his hair.
Ian moved off of her only to lie beside her and draw her into his arms. "Yes, Raven?"
"Will it always be like this?" She asked softly.
He smiled. "With any luck, yes."
Raven smiled back. She laid her head on his chest feel the dull thumps of his heart.
"When will we be able to do this again?" she asked softly.
Ian chuckled. "Ready for more, are you?" He said. His fingers lightly played with her hair.
Raven ducked her head, hoping he wouldn't see her blush. Was she some kind of wanton to enjoy the things they had just done? She felt him stroke her hair again. "No, darling, don't feel bad. If you hadn't enjoyed it so much I would have been worried."
"Really?"
"Yes." He tilted her chin and kissed the tip of her nose. "Are you tired?"
When she shook her head he smiled again. "Neither am I."
Raven felt him harden and she looked at him. "Again?"
"Unless you have any objections." He said softly. Again Raven shook her head, and offered her lips up to his kiss.

Chapter 4

"How is married life treating you, dear?" Samantha asked. She and Raven were sitting in her parlor having afternoon tea.
Raven smiled, her face glowing. Samantha could tell the young woman was in love. It was a good thing too. Matches like that didn't come along often.
"It's only been a few weeks." Raven said. "I suppose I'm still getting used to it."
"Your wedding has been the talk of the town, darling. No one had ever expected you to marry."
"You mean find a man willing to marry me." Raven said.
"Well everyone knew Prescott was seeking your hand."
Raven made a face. She was glad that she didn't have to deal with him. "Yes I know. I told him I wouldn't marry him. I kept my word."
"Are you and Ian planning to go to the country for awhile?" Samantha asked.
Raven shook her head. "I'm not sure. He's been very busy lately." Raven looked at her. She wondered if she should tell Samantha what she had heard the other night. She desperatly wanted to help in some way, but she couldn't see how. Chances were that Samantha already knew about it. Raven bit into a scone and chewed thoughtfully. Why would anyone want to harm her brother? Who could it be? She wanted to find answers, but she wasn't even sure how to proceed. She knew Ian would never want her to get involoved, but this was her brother, she had to help.
"I hope I'm not interrupting."
Ian's voice broke through her thoughts, and she turned to him. He stood in the doorway of Samantha's parlor, his eyes only on her. Raven felt a blush creeping up, and tried to stop it. She had never blushed before she had met this man! She marveled at how someone could affect her so much.
"Come, Ian, have some tea." Samantha offered.
"Thank you, but I really can't stay, I have only come to get my wife. Reggie is have a dinner party."
"Really? Well don't let me keep you." Samantha waved them off. "And, Raven, you really must stop by more often."
"I will, Samantha." Once they were home, Ian didn't wait for the door to shut before his mouth was on hers. Raven sighed against his lips, feeling her body respond to his urgent kisses. She knew the dinner party was a few hours away and she had already planned what she would wear.
"Ian," Raven protested half heartedly as his hands roamed over her body. "It's the middle of the day!"
"Then we won't need to waste candles for me to see your beautiful body." He lifted her in his arms and carried her up to thier room.
Raven laughed. "The servents will see you acting so barbaric."
"I don't give a fig." Ian kicked thier door closed bhind them. "We'll give them something to talk about." His mouth was on hers in seconds as he laid her across the bed. He had thier clothes off in short order as well before he lay next to her.
Raven sighed, lifting her arms up to him as he kissed her. His lips and hands fluttered on her body, sending shivers through her. Eagerly she grasped his hardening manhood, giving it a gentle squeeze. Ian grunted, then eased two fingers inside her. She knew she was already wet and ready for him as she arched her back to meet his hand. She moaned low and deep in her throat, and begged him for more.
Ian smiled. "Want more do you?" He whispered hotly. He removed his fingers and Raven whimpered. He pulled her on top of him until he was flat on his back as she straddled him. Her hands on his chest, she looked down at him in confusion. Ian raised his hips, the swollen part of him gliding against her slick channel easily. He lifted her just enough to have the very tip of him at her entrance. He eased her down and she gasped as she impaled herself on him. She didn't need any guidance once she had him sheathed deep inside her. She moved up and down slowly, getting used to the feel of him in this way. Ian's hands were on her hips gently moving along with her body. He raised his hips to meet her slow thrusts.

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