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Royce pushed her to the bed and she fell upon it, wincing as she landed on her bound arms. He knelt above her, studying her. The intensity in his stare left a trail of fire boiling her blood. She found herself anticipating what he might do next.

He spread her legs, holding her wide open as he studied her.

"I shall enjoy this."

"Enjoy what?"

He said nothing, merely slid one finger along her sex. The touch jolted and she squirmed, seeking greater contact. He merely tightened his hold on her hip to still her and continued the teasing strokes. Slowly, he slid his finger deeper, pulling out and gliding up to circle her clit. The sensation ran from her core to her head, leaving her breathless, her breasts heavy and aching.

Over and over, he caressed, just the one finger lightly touching her and making her ache with lust. She wanted more and sensed he knew it. She bit her lip to keep fromblurting a plea. 'Twas what he wanted and she would not give in.

But as he kept up the provocative caresses, she found her resolve weakening. He circled her clit again. She tried to lift her hips to guide him back when he moved away, but he gave her no chance. Finally, he drew away and she panted heavily.

"You are soaked, wife. I suspect you are growing hungry for release."

"Nay, merely waiting for you to finish your game."

Her husky voice betrayed the lie and he grinned.

"Your sass will win you no favors."

"I don't seek any."

"Is that so?"

He stroked her again and the moan escaped before she could cut it off. His hearty chuckle fired annoyance, which quickly vanished in the wake of desire his probing finger stirred. Suddenly, she had plenty of favors to ask, but she wouldn't do it. She bit her lip on another moan, squeezing her eyes shut.

That only intensified the arousal he ignited. She opened her eyes, breathing heavily and wondering if she would withstand him. He pulled his hand away and she sighed, relieved for the respite so she could steady her wits.

"Tell me who else here at Lyndon or in the village might have reason to rebel."

"What?" Her lust-clouded mind didn't quite understand.

"Someone on this manor or in the village is aiding the rebels. I think you can give me answers."

She shook her head. "Nay, I do not know anyone who would betray England. You must believe me."

"I don't."

His words, harsh and clipped, sparked a momentary panic. When he reached for her once more, this time cupping one breast and squeezing gently, the panic increased. Fire licked at her veins and she longed to fling herself into the inferno. He lowered his head, his tonguecircling her nipple, which seemed to throb and reach for contact.

He never touched the tip, continued his tormenting licks, leaving her gasping and desperate to stop the plea that danced on the edge of her tongue.

He drew back for a moment and blew gently. The heat of his breath against her wet flesh sent another flare of fire hurtling through her. She arched her back, seeking his mouth. Instead, he leaned back.

"Too much pleasure without release can become quite painful."

She knew full well what his taunt meant. Her body ached for climax, but she knew he wouldn't give it. Not yet anyway. Not until he had something from her. What could she do? She would never betray her people. But if she remained silent, she had no doubt he could keep her on this precipice, near desperate to come, for hours. Did she fear or look forward to that?

He resumed his exploration of her breasts, using his mouth and hands to send her into a frenzy. She squirmed against him, desperate to hold onto him. But her bound wrists kept her helpless to his whims. Her fingers clenched, the raspy feel of his tongue rubbing lightly over her nipple was near enough to drive her over the edge. He pulled away.

She groaned, squirming, but his position between her legs kept her motionless.

"Ere the sun rises, you will give me the names of those who may be possible traitors."

She shook her head, caught in the throes of lust. How could he ask that of her?

"I know no one who would betray England." She gave a silent prayer of thanks her voice held strong and clear. "And I will not give a name just for my immediate pleasure."