There is nothing Matthias Deverell, illegitimate son of a marquis, wants more than to remove the murmurs of treason that haunt his father’s name. He is determined to do just that, even if it means completing the nearly impossible task of reassembling the globe his father used as a safe. With pieces spread all over London, it will take all of Matthias’ considerable skill at intimidation to retrieve them. Nicholas Rexford, young Viscount Leighton, wants only to be able to provide a comfortable life for himself and his three sisters. After being left in near-poverty thanks to their father’s spending and gambling, Nick is desperate to find a business venture he can invest in to turn their fortunes around. Sadly, he has no head for business, preferring to spend his time engrossed in horrid novels. When Matthias finds Nick in possession of a piece of the globe, he believes the handsome young man to be in on the scheme, and decides to keep a closer eye on him. But when Nick meets Matthias, he is enthralled by the “dark and dangerous bastard” who could have stepped out of one of his novels. Despite his suspicions, Matthias is drawn to Nick, but will his suspicions destroy what is developing between them and cost Matthias a chance at happiness?

The Bastard's World

“No,” Nick managed. “No objections.”


“Excellent.” Matthias moved again, this time to press Nick down onto the cushioned seat.


From the haze of pleasure that enveloped him, Nick had the vague impression of things following a similar pattern as they had the last time. By the time they reached Cavendish Square, Nick’s waistcoat was unfastened and his cravat was in disarray. The same solemn butler was there to take their things without batting an eye, and Nick found he wasn’t nearly as embarrassed this time. Matthias didn’t bother to offer him any refreshment, he merely gestured for Nick to proceed him up the staircase. Nick went, acutely aware of Matthias following very closely behind him.


Chapter 38