Peter glanced at Nash for approval, but Nash shook his head. Without another word, Peter left.
Anger surged through her, and she marched to Nash, her arms planted on her hips. “Why did you tell him no? Sally is going to be distraught, fearing something awful has happened to me.”
“I have already taken care of that. Peter informed your friend you are with me, but he did not tell her where we are going. I do not want her running to the police and informing them of our whereabouts. Who knows if they are on my powerful uncle’s payroll or not?”
“Sometimes, you can be a cruel and heartless man, Nash.”
He grinned. “No, but you keep believing that, and maybe it will help you with your unwholesome thoughts toward me a minute ago when I caught you peeking in the mirror.”
Her mouth dropped open. “How dare you—”
“My sweet Maxey.” He stepped to her. “I am not blind. The proof is right here on your scarlet face.” He brushed his fingers softly over that heated spot, but she slapped them away.
“Mr. Burke, I have decided not to be attracted to you any longer. If we are going to be in close quarters from now until we reach Devonshire, we must maintain some professionalism.”
He shrugged. “That sounds terribly boring and will make for one tedious excursion.”
She pursed her lips, knowing she would agree with him if she didn’t keep remembering her business manner.
“I think you should get a little sleep,” he said. “If we travel to the docks at night, it will help us stay hidden better.”
She stifled a yawn. “I do feel tired. But I’m not about to undress in front of you. Would you kindly step outside?”
“No. I do not trust you by yourself, especially if there are windows that can be easily opened.”
She arched a brow. Apparently, she wasn’t trying hard enough to convince Nash that she trusted him. “But we are on the second floor. I’m not about to jump out of a second-story window. Besides, it won’t be proper if you stay here while I undress.”
“I am not going anywhere, and I promise not to peek as you did.” Chuckling, he winked.
Once again, her face flamed. She glanced at the full-length mirror and realized that standing behind it would be her only protection. Unfortunately, the room did not have a dressing screen.
She marched to the bed, yanked open her bag, and grabbed the flannel nightdress on top. Stubbornly, she lifted her chin and moved behind the mirror. True to his word, Nash turned his back to give her more privacy.
This time, undressing was easier because she wore men’s attire, and soon she had wiggled into her nightdress and settled it over her body. After bunching up her clothes, she took them to the bed and stuffed the garments into the satchel.
Without asking his permission, she drew down the blankets and crawled into his bed, pulling the cover high up her neck. His masculine, spicy scent surrounded her, making her head light.
Nash glanced over his shoulder at her. A grin spread across his handsome face.
“Try to rest, Maxey. It is uncertain right now when we will leave.”
She nodded as he settled in the heavily cushioned chair beside the bed.
“Sweet dreams, my dear Maxey.” He reached over and turned off the lamp.
She squeezed her eyes closed, but images of his naked chest popped into her head. Silently, she groaned. Working side by side with him would be pure torture…and their adventure hadn’t even begun.
*
Nash bolted straightup in his chair, blinking away the sleep that crept upon him. A noise had awakened him, but as he searched the shadows in the darkened room and listened, he couldn’t tell what brought him alert. On stiff legs, he moved to the window and peered through the slits of the heavy drapes. The afternoon’s sun made him squint as he looked down at the street in front of the townhouse. Merchants peddled their wares while children played near their governess. Horses pulled wagons and conveyances, their hooves and the wheels crunching on the ground as they passed.
The noise he heard hadn’t come from outside. It came from somewhere in this room.
Releasing a heavy breath, he rubbed his hand across his bare chest. The morning was warm, and after Maxey fell asleep, he had removed his shirt. Stretching his body from the cramped position he was in, he walked back to the chair.
As he sank into the cushions, he heard the noise again. His gaze snapped to the bed. A bright sliver of sunlight peeked through the curtains and shined a small amount of light on Maxey. She lay on her back. The sheets were gathered around her legs as she fitfully tossed to her side, letting out small moans. Judging from the tight crease on her forehead, her dream was not pleasant. He couldn’t decide if he should wake her or let her sleep.
For a few moments, she lay still before rolling his way, flinging her arms over her head and pulling her lips into a pout. Still, she looked adorable. When she made another noise, her mouth opened, her breath coming in gusts as if she ran from someone. Warily, he moved closer and watched.
