“And who would they be?”
He stared at her for a long moment as if trying to decide whether to trusther. She nearly laughed. He had nothing to fear, while she had everything to lose.
“I work with a small branch of His Majesty’s Secret Service. We take directives from the regent and have only the best interests of England as our goal. Our branch was developed by King George just after Bonaparte was named consul for life in 1802. Two years later, I was recruited and began my career with the agency.
“Our main purpose was to monitor Bonaparte’s activities and call to the attention of the crown any plots that could potentially undermine the English throne. Perhaps, you can now see why what happened in Leaudor has captured our attention.”
“Indeed,” she said bitterly. “Far be it for England to be concerned over the assassinations of the royal family if it doesn’t threaten them in some way.”
He remained silent, not defending or agreeing. She had said far too much as it was. She stole a glance at the window. Rose bushes or not, escape was paramount.
“His Highness, the prince regent, is concerned for your safety and wishes an audience with you in the morning. It is my responsibility to convey you to the palace and to see to your safety.”
She snorted. “I do hope you do not take your duty too seriously.”
He raised an eyebrow, evidently surprised by her outburst. “I’m not sure I understand your meaning.”
“Let me be clear then. I have no intention of going anywhere with you. Especially not to the palace.” She struggled to sit upright in the bed, pushing at the heavy covers. She let out a hiss of annoyance as a surge of weakness hit her, leaving her shaky and breathing heavily.
Firm hands pushed her back down on the pillow. “You must rest and save your strength. You’ve been through quite an ordeal. I know you have no reason to trust me, but at the moment, I am all you have.”
She clenched her fists beneath the covers and gritted her teeth in frustration. But then her temporary weakness could serve her purposes well. When his guard was completely down, she could escape again. Only this time she would make the best of her flight.
Settling back onto the bed, she closed her eyes and sighed in what she hoped sounded like defeat. “You’re right, of course.”
“We need to talk, Princess. But in order to do that, I need you to be honest with me.”
She opened her eyes and glanced warily at him. “What exactly do you wish to discuss?” Clearly this was a man used to getting his way. There was no arrogance in his manner, just quiet confidence that radiated from his every movement.
“I need to ask you some questions. Painful questions. But if I am going to help you, I need your answers.”
“What makes you think I need your help?” she asked, narrowing her eyes.
He looked surprised by her response. “Perhaps we can help each other then.”
“Ask your questions,” she said in a weary tone. “I offer no guarantees that I will answer them.”
Simon bit his tongue for the hundredth time in frustration. Infuriating and not at all forthcoming in her conversation, she had yet to divulge anything.
And with his mounting irritation, strong curiosity about this most unusual woman was beginning to take over his mind. She was unlike anyone he had ever met, man or woman. Even in her weakened state, she challenged him and gave him no quarter.
“Perhaps we should wait until you’ve rested more,” he offered. Clearly she had no plan to cooperate with him.
“I do not plan to be in your company for that long, my lord. I suggest you ask what it is you want to know now.”
“Where will you go? It seems to me you have little choice but to trust me.”
“Your confidence is admirable, but overstated. I’ve managed on my own these past months and have no need of your protection.”
Her chin lifted in defiance, and her eyes burned brightly with determination. She obviously believed every word she said. He didn’t much like the idea of taking her to the palace against her will, but he would do it if it became necessary.
“Do you know who is responsible for the assassinations of your parents and your brothers?”
“If I did, do you think I would be hiding in England like a common coward?”
Disgust dripped from her voice like heavy jam from a scone.
“I see. Do you have any ideawhythey were assassinated?”
