Seduced: The Scandalous Virgin. Deborah Hale

effort to be agreeable to everyone. I shall relish the opportunity to be contrary or short-tempered if I choose. Let me go fetch my bonnet.”

      Watching her walk away, Blade pictured her gown drenched with seawater, clinging to her body like a translucent second skin. Had that provocative glimpse of her fuelled his present combustible attraction? Or was he responding to the challenge she now represented? Whatever the reason, he found himself drawn to her far more intensely than when she'd pursued him.

      A short while later, as they emerged onto the open deck, he offered her his arm.

      “Such minor liberties are permissible at sea,” he explained. “For support, in case a lady should lose her footing on account of the ship's movement.”

      Though she seemed dubious of his assurances, it did not prevent Genia from slipping her hand through the crook of his elbow. That innocent touch, together with the subtle whiff of jasmine that hung about her, roused Blade's desire in a way that was anything but innocent.

      He could not help imagining what a playful, adventurous lover she might make.

      They had not strolled far when a school of dolphins caught their attention, bounding along beside the ship, leaping out of the sea then plunging back in. For a while, Blade and Genia stood at the railing, laughing at the creatures’ antics and marveling at their speed, strength and grace.

      “Intriguing creatures,” Blade mused as they resumed their stroll, “so free and full of life.”

      “Shall I tell you what intrigues me?” asked Genia.

      Though he sensed a slight threat in her question, it also piqued his curiosity. “By all means.”

      “I am at a loss to understand why you are suddenly so attentive to me. When you first arrived in Madras, I would have been delighted by any sign of interest from you. But you scarcely spared me a second glance. I do not think I have improved so much in the meantime. Is this a measure of your present desperation or are you after me for the money I may inherit?”