A Rogue No More - Lana Williams Page 0,25

more than his. Momentum was key. Besides, waiting would cause financial issues he didn’t want to explain to Graham.

“What if I did a bit of investigating of my own into the murder?” The offer slipped out before he could consider it in full.

“You? Do you know anything about investigations?”

“I’ll have you to guide me from behind the scenes. If the murderer is truly copying your book, who would be better suited to catch him than us?”

She worried her lower lip as she pondered his idea.

“I’ll speak with the constable who found the body and tell him I’m interested in the details because I’m researching a book,” Thomas continued. “Your identity will remain hidden.”

“I want to come with you.”

“Absolutely not. For the sake of your safety as well as your reputation, I can’t allow it. However, I promise to keep you closely apprised of my progress.”

“I don’t think you understand how troubled I am by the murder. There might be something the police are overlooking that I’ll see.” She reached for the manuscript she’d set on his desk, a mutinous look in her dark eyes. “I accompany you or I keep my manuscript until the police make an arrest. Which is it to be?”

“Annabelle, have you gone mad?” The idea of her writing a gritty murder scene was one thing, but having her involved personally was another matter entirely. One that threatened to choke him.

“I’ll be with you. What could go wrong?” she asked.

He could think of so many things, including the temptation he felt when he was with her. He couldn’t resist her at a ball, let alone in a less crowded place. She was asking a rogue to be a gentleman—impossible. “Your reputation—”

“I’ll disguise myself. We’ll say I’m your widowed aunt.” A light gleamed in her eyes as the details took hold.

“No. I refuse to allow it.” He knew deep in his bones it wouldn’t work. Something terrible would happen. And it would be his fault. “Absolutely not.”

She pulled the manuscript onto her lap. “Then I cannot give you this.”

Dismay seeped through him. The determination in her eyes told him he’d lost. Surely the police would make an arrest any day and this would all be for naught.

“Very well. If you insist,” he agreed reluctantly. “But mark my words—this is a terrible idea.” Her suggestion that he’d be there to protect not only her reputation but possibly her life chilled his blood. He thought he’d made it clear that he was no hero, merely a rogue. She asked far too much. He could only hope she wouldn’t be disappointed.

Chapter Six

“Do you realize you will be ruined if you’re caught?” Caroline stared at Annabelle the following day as if she’d lost her mind. She folded her arms over her chest much like Margaret had. Annabelle hadn’t realized how much her two sisters were alike until now.

“We’re not going to be caught,” Annabelle insisted, ignoring her nervousness at the risk she took. “I’ll be dressed in widow’s attire complete with a veil. No one will recognize me.”

Annabelle needed Caroline’s help, so she’d explained about the murder and how closely the details matched the scene in her book. She’d also told her of the plan with Thomas to speak with the constable in charge of the murder investigation. There was no possible way for Annabelle to leave home dressed in a disguise without being caught. Not with Barclay always watching along with Margaret and her mother.

“What if you’re forced to admit you’re the author of the book?” Caroline asked.

“I have given that careful consideration. But finding the murderer who is copying my story to kill others is more important. Not only does the poor victim deserve justice, but I don’t want my effort to entertain people to be used that way.”

“This carries far too much risk.” Caroline shook her head.

“I’ll be with Mr. Raybourne. He’ll protect me if anything goes amiss.”

“That man is a rogue through and through. No doubt this was his idea. Who will protect you from him?”

“He’s been nothing but a gentleman in our business dealings.” Annabelle chose not to mention the kiss they’d shared at Louisa’s ball. The moment had been personal—not business—so she wasn’t exactly lying. She couldn’t help but wonder if deep inside he was the honorable man he acted like when they were together.

“Being caught with him or any man will ruin you,” Caroline said.

“I will take care as will Mr. Raybourne.” Annabelle didn’t understand her need to think the best of Thomas. In all