Chapter 31

In a stark contrast to earlier in the evening, however, Nick was not mere putty in his hands. Although slightly smaller, Matthias had been able to feel a fair amount of power in the body beneath his, even as he’d sought to subdue it. He’d also sensed that Nick hadn’t used all his strength to escape, only what was necessary. Of course, Matthias hadn’t used all his strength, either. He’d never had to force anyone who didn’t want him, and he certainly wasn’t going to start with a young viscount.

It was the reason Nick gave for his departure that finally made Matthias reconsider Nick’s involvement with Esmond. While he wasn’t ready to completely give up his suspicion that Nick was working to find pieces of the globe, he was willing to allow that Nick had more than mere greed as a motive. There was no longer any doubt in Matthias mind that Nick’s reasons involved his sisters and their health and happiness.