In a rush, she recalled being with him in a room, begging for him to stop whipping her. On her knees, she’d clutched his overcoat, pleading with him for forgiveness. Again. Just like the several times before.
Horrified, she now remembered that he hadn’t listened to her pleas. Instead, he allowed his anger to guide his hand as he brought down the leather whip across her bare back….
A low chuckle came from his throat, bringing her from her nightmare. “I see ye didn’t miss me at all, Louisa. That makes me sad.”
Shivers of disgust clawed through her and she wanted to gag. Although she remembered more about her past, there was still quite a bit she didn’t know. But from the images that wouldn’t leave her mind now, it was no wonder she had hidden them away.
“Macgregor,” she whispered.
“In the flesh.” He mocked a bow. “And my dear Louisa, ye have come up in the world, I see.” His gaze swept over her. “I must admit ye look more like a lady now than ye did before.”
Trembling, she nodded. “I—I am no longer a thief.”
“Yes, I see that.” He motioned his head back toward the stage. “I’m very surprised to see ye with a duke, however.” Macgregor leaned in closer. “Does he know about yer past?”
Tears stung Louisa’s eyes, but she refused to shed them, even as frightened as this man made her. “Yes, he knows.”
He arched a bushy eyebrow. “And he’s still keepin’ ye on as his servant?”
“Yes.”
“Hmm… What a very trustin’ fellow, don’t ye agree?”
“Indeed, he is.”
“And I suppose he’s a very generous man.”
She nodded as fear grew inside her. By the evil glint in this man’s eyes, what he had in store for her was something she would not like. There was no way Macgregor could make her return to his den of thieves, but his mind was plotting. She knew it, yet couldn’t stop it.
Swallowing the lump in her throat, she took a deep breath, preparing to move past him. “If you will excuse me, I must get back—”
He blocked her with his arm. “One minute, I beg of ye.” The corners of his mouth lifted in an evil sneer. “I suppose ye are enjoyin’ yer position in the duke’s household and that ye enjoy carin’ for his children.”
Louisa scowled. “We have no more to discuss, Macgregor. I’m no longer in your employ. I’m a grown woman and have found another home. Please leave me alone.” She marched past him, but he grasped her elbow, stopping her once again.
“Before ye leave,” he said, his voice nearly growling, “there is one thing I need ye to do for me before I consider ye out of my employ.”
“Impossible. I will not do anything for you ever again.” She ground out each word all the while fear pumped through her blood. This man was dangerous. Although she couldn’t recall everything about him, she did know he was not a man who could be trusted.
“Oh, I think ye will, Miss Louisa.” He leaned closer. “The Dowager Duchess of Kenbridge is filthy rich. On the occasions I’ve had the privilege to see her, I’ve noticed how she flaunts her jewelry. All I want is some of those jewels.”
Louisa gasped and yanked her arm away. “If you think I’ll lower myself to steal from that wonderful lady, think again.”
“Youwill, especially if ye have a care for the safety of her grandchildren.”
Fright immobilized Louisa. Even her mind refused to think of a way to get out of this situation. How dare he threaten to harm those adorable children. By refusing him, she would put the twins in danger.
“And if ye even think to tell the duke, I will harm him as well. In fact,” Macgregor scratched his ear, “the duke might be the first one I hurt.”
Panicked, she pulled on his sleeve. Tears pricked her eyes. “No. You cannot hurt them. They have done nothing to you.”
“Louisa, my dear, all I’m asking for is a couple of necklaces.”
Dread of the worst kind spread through her, knowing there was only one decision to make. “That is all?”
“Of course. A few of her necklaces and brooches will be worth much. But make certain these necklaces are decorated with colorful gems. I want only the best.” He stroked his fingers down her cheek. “And Iknowye can tell which ones will be more expensive.”
“Yes, I can,” she muttered.
