Heat flew over her. He stalked across the room, his buttocks flexing as he went.
“I want you to divorce me,” she blurted.
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Maid for the Marquess
Miss Maddie Smythe
My callous father wagered me to a brooding stranger during a hand of cards, leaving me terrified.
But Lord Wheaton was nothing like the baron who’d forced me into servitude and gave me away.
The handsome marquess was compassionate, honorable, and my only hope for a future.
I married him to save myself, not intending to lose my heart.
Never thinking of the danger that loomed, threatening to tear us apart forever.
Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton
The last thing I needed was an innocent to protect, but I couldn’t leave the frightened maid to her vile father’s mercy.
It didn’t take me long to realize Maddie was everything I never knew I needed, sweet and caring and lovely.
She made me whole.
When her villainous father tried to take her from me, I vowed to do everything in my power to save my wife.
Even if it meant sacrificing myself…
EXCERPT
“I will add one more thing,”the baron said abruptly.
I frowned at the unexpected offer.
“Which is?”
“A servant for you.” Something in his voice set my teeth on edge. He looked delighted, as if he had suddenly thought of a plan.
“I have no need of any servants.”
He waved his hand. “This one is special. Been in my house her whole life.” He paused. “Untouched. She will be yours to do with what you want. In fact, I hope you use her then cast her aside when done.”
I was shocked at his callous tone. Horrified at his suggestion. I met Edward’s eyes, who also looked dismayed.
“I beg your pardon,” I snapped.
He held up his hand. “I mean no disrespect. I know you are a man who prefers experience. Consider this a gift. Whether you win or not.”
I realized he fully expected to win. That in his twisted mind, I would accept a servant in lieu of funds, never suspecting his fraud.
“Bring her in,” he ordered his butler.
Once again, I met Edward’s gaze, a silent conversation flowing between us. Whoever this servant was, it was obvious Barnett despised her. Wanted her gone and wished for her to suffer.
Nothing prepared me for the young woman who was dragged into the room and pushed in front of me. I automatically rose to my feet as any gentleman would do when a lady entered. I had to grab the edge of the table to remain standing. It was the chit I had seen scurrying away—the one who had captured my interest for some reason. Seeing her fully was a shock.
