Sorcha MacMurrough - Rakehell Regency 10 - Innocence PDF

Innocence
Book 10 of The Rakehell Regency Series

Sorcha MacMurrough
Randall Avenel the Earl of Hazelmeres plans for a liaison with the
talented courtesan known as The Eternal Virgin go awry when
impoverished heiress Isolde Drake appears on his doorstep to apply for the
job of paid companion to his aging mother.
Having refused to support her family by compromising her virtue with
Chauncey Howell, to whom Isolde had been engaged before her family lost
all their money, Howell decides to take revenge by sending Isolde
unescorted to Randall's home.
The Earl is known as the most prominent rake of the Ton. Isolde
stepping foot in the house alone will bring such scandal, it is sure to ruin her,
provoke a duel with his enemy Randall, and drive Isolde into his own bed.
Chauncey doesnt foresee Isoldes overwhelming desire for Randall, or
the fascination the beautiful and spirited young woman begins to exert upon
the world-weary rake tormented by his own sins.
Who has seduced whom? Has the jaded young Earl met his match at last?
Only by coming to terms with his shadowy past and the crimes he is sure he
is guilty of, can Randall ever be free to love again.
Only through learning about the enigmatic woman whom his enemy has
bestowed upon him, can Randall face the future, and allow his experience to
be tempered by innocence. Only though trusting to love can the vanquish the
enemies who will stop at nothing to destroy Randall and his family.
I am mad, darling Isolde, he said, taking her hand to kiss it once more.
"Mad for you to be my wife, to give yourself to me in every way. And to let
me give myself to you the way Ive never given myself to any woman.
Randall reached for her waist now, but she suddenly grew fearful of the
raving passion that tore through her with his slightest touch.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
1
http://HerStoryBooks.com
This is too much, she said, cowering away from his questing hands.
Please. Just let me go. I want to go home to Surrey.
His face fell. I cant be responsible for your ruin like this.
You arent. Howell will be if he bruits it about. But you cannot be given
a life sentence for a crime you did not commit.
"What if I want to be prisoner to your charms, Isolde, without any hope
of parole?"
"Please, Randall, this is no laughing matter, and I would not want you
condemned to a life of misery."
But what if that's all I deserve? he said under his breath.
She stared at him now, stunned. You want to punish yourself by
marrying me? What on earth
He reached for her with desperate eagerness, desire shining in his lapis
blue eyes. No! No, not at all. I want and need you. I would be lost if you
walked out that door now without giving me a chance to redeem myself.
Reviews:
Another lusty romance novel in the Rakehell series with the bold Isolde
and intriguing Randall lighting the pages on fire. This is steamy historical
romance at its best, as this passionate couple find themselves united in the
bedroom and out, to stave off family disaster and win their hearts' desires.
Evelyn Trimborn, Castles in the Air
Take one fascinating rakish hero, one demure and desperate heroine,
add heaps of scorching desire, and simmer. This is the recipe for success in
this marvelous addition to the Rakehell Regency series. Wonderful. I can't
wait to read the steamy sequel. Erin Kennedy
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
2
A superb steamy Regency romance full of intrigue. I adored the terrific

characters: fallen Randall, sensual Isolde, and the raffish Rakehells. Both
hero and heroine transform before our eyes as they meet and give in to the
overwhelming attraction they share. This is MacMurrough at her sultry best.
You will love this very erotic romance novel. Jacinta Carey, The Starbuck
Saga
Innocence is an enthralling Rakehell Regency Romance. The characters
grab you from the first sentence and never let go. I adore the hero and
heroine, and the mystery elements, which are first-rate. This is a sensual
rollercoaster of steamy sex and suspense which will leave you breathless for
the sequel. Carolyn Stone, Under the Covers Book Reviews
As always, Ms. MacMurrough has us eagerly following her characters
as they traverse the rocky road to true love. Isolde is a wonderful heroine,
feisty, brave, and sensual, the Innocence of the title. Randall is the jaded
rake who dares trust to love when Isolde enters his life.
"This is a steamy, sensual Regency novel. Every love scene scorches the
pages, and the mystery which unfolds regarding Randall's past and family
skeletons in the closet (literally!) keeps us eager to read on.
"Always welcome are appearances by our old friends the Rakehells, who
as usual provide a marvelously well-drawn set of secondary characters. You
dont have to read every book in the series to appreciate them, but they are
all so gorgeous, why would you miss a single one?
"Endlessly fascinating, sexy and thrilling, for me this is yet another
Rakehell romance novel that's a certain keeper, and I can't wait for the
sequel, Innocence Afire. Annabelle Stevens, Loves Sweet Song
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
3
Also by Sorcha MacMurrough

Contemporary Romances
Hearts Desire
Star Attraction
Ghost from the Past
Historical Romances
The Hart and The Harp
The Faithful Heart
The Sea of Love
Scars Upon Her Heart
The Rakehell Regency Series
The Mad Mistress
The Missed Match
The Miss Matched
The Matchless Miss
The Scarred Heart
Guardian of the Heart
The Mistaken Miss
The Model Master
The Model Mistress
Innocence
Innocence Afire
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
4
Innocence
Book Ten of
The Rakehell Regency Series
Sorcha MacMurrough
HerStory Books
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
5
Dedication: To my family and friends, and in loving memory of our

dearest Evie, truly a paragon in every respect.
Copyright USA, UK and Worldwide the author 2004, 2009
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording, or by any information and storage retrieval system,
without permission in writing from the copyright owner.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are the
product of the authors imagination, and any resemblance to any actual
persons, living or dead, events, or locales, is entirely coincidental.
ISBN: 978-1-58345-535-7 Book 10 of The Rakehell Regency Series
Published by HerStory Books
9511 Shore Road, Suite 514
Brooklyn New York 11209
http://www.herstorybooks.com
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
6
RAKEHELL CHARACTER LIST

Randall Avenel, a Rakehell and rake, youngest of 5 sons, who has
recently inherited the title the Earl of Hazelmere
The Dowager Lady Hazelmere, his mother, now a widow
Isolde Drake, Viscount Linleys daughter
Lady Rose, her mother, a recent widow
Stephen Drake, the new Viscount Linley, her brother
Rebecca Drake, her younger sister
Susan Drake, her youngest sister
Chauncey Howell, Isoldes former fiance
Jack Parkins, his friend
Fanny Clarence, Chauncey Howells new fiancee
Mr. and Mrs Clarence, her parents
Matthew Dane, a Rakehell, Randalls friend and duelling second
Dr. Antony Herriot, Isoldes cousin; runs a womens clinic for the poor
in London
Philip Marshall, a Rakehell, works with Alistair Grant, barrister
Jasmine Marshall, his wife, friends with Isolde
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
7
(for their story, see The Mistaken Miss)

Dr. Blake Sanderson, a Rakehell, a doctor in London and Somerset
Arabella Neville Sanderson, his wife
(for their story, see Guardian of the Heart)
Clifford Stone, a Rakehell, owner of Stone Court
Vanessa Stone, nee Hawkesworth, his wife, a great scholar
(for their story, see The Mad Mistress)
The Duke of Ellesmere, Thomas Eltham, a Rakehell, lives at Eltham
Castle
The Duchess of Ellesmere, Charlotte Eltham, his wife
(for their story, see The Missed Match)
Jonathan Deveril, a Rakehell, vicar of Brimley and Eltham
Pamela Deveril, his wife
(for their story, see The Miss Matched)
Sarah Deveril Davenport, Jonathans youngest sister
Alexander Davenport, her husband, a Rakehell
(for their story, see The Matchless Miss)
Alistair Grant, a Rakehell and barrister in London
Martin Jerome, Blakes cousin, an honorary Rakehell
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
8
Eswara Paignton Jerome, his wife, a healer from India who works with
Blake
(for their story, see The Model Mistress)
Geoffrey and Malcolm Branson, father and son, local magistrates in
Somerset
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
9
Innocence always calls mutely for protection when we would be so much

wiser to guard ourselves against it: innocence is like a dumb leper who has
lost his bell, wandering the world, meaning no harm.
Innocence is a kind of insanity.
Graham Greene, The Quiet American, Part 1, Chapter 3
Innocence is lovely in the child, because in harmony with its nature; but
our path in life is not backward but onward, and virtue can never be the
offspring of mere innocence.
If we are to progress in the knowledge of good, we must also progress in
the knowledge of evil. Every experience of evil brings its own temptation,
and according to the degree in which the evil is recognized and the
temptations resisted, will be the value of the character into which the
individual will develop.
Mrs. H. O. Ward. Sensible Etiquette of the Best Society Customs,
Manners, Morals, and Home Culture, Compiled from the Best Authorities,
Chapter 12 (1878).
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
10
Prologue
2 February 1809
The two horses thundered side by side, racing for the jump which would
mark the last leg of the wild race the high-spirited young men had
challenged each other to.
It was ever the way with them, for the horses they rode were amongst the
finest in Somerset, if not all of England. It was all too easy to get carried
away by the exhilaration of the moment.
The huge black stallion with only the tiniest white blaze on his forehead
ate up the ground as he headed for the wall at a breakneck pace. His rider
was already getting into position for the jump.
The man on the chestnut whipped his mount viciously, urging it onwards.
Now was as good a chance as any. He spurred him hard enough for him to
close the distance, and drew level with the black.
Instead of preparing for the jump, he pulled hard on his horses reins. He
lashed out at his rival viciously with his riding crop, smacking him squarely
in the chest.
The chestnut reared and whinnied in protest. He had to pull it back to
stop it trammelling the fallen young man with raven-black hair.
The ebony stallion had already continued on. Confused and riderless, it
tried to make the leap, slipped, and flew straight into the stone wall. Both its
forelegs snapped; it screamed in pain.
The man on the ground groaned, and struggled to get up. For Gods
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
11
sake, why? he wheezed.

For Clarissa. I saw you together. Saw you in the stables. Shes mine, no
one elses. Do you hear me? No ones. Mine. Futtering my wench!
At least put Blaze out of his misery, the darker of the two men begged.
Its only a damned horse. Youre the one getting put down.
You can have her! I feel bad enough diddling her behind
His assailant could not bear to hear any more. He grabbed the younger
mans neck and twisted hard, grunting with satisfaction at the crunching
sound.
Coming out of the red haze of his fury a moment later, he has enough
common sense to look around to see if anyone was nearby.
When he was sure all was clear, he grabbed the body of his former friend,
former rival, and heaved it over to the wall.
Then he tossed it onto the other side like a sack of refuse. Remounting
the chestnut, he began to trot toward the manor house without so much as a
backward glance.
As he rode, he practised the story he would tell the grieving family.
And plotted his revenge upon Clarissa when he saw her next....
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
12
Chapter One
2 February 1819
Isolde Drake tapped the vast brass door knocker timidly. The huge portal
swung open, revealing an imposing foyer, the grandeur of which made her
want to flee all the more.
Desperation made her stand her ground, and she managed to state in a
slightly unsteady tone, Im here to see the Earl of Hazelmere, please.
Hopkins the butler had been surprised enough by his masters
announcement that he was expecting a lady this evening, and that he should
show her into the smallest of the drawing rooms when she arrived.
He was even more surprised when she turned out to be a woman of such
remarkably ethereal beauty, reminiscent of a faerie or water sprite. He was
sure that even a notorious rake like his employer did not come across
exquisite loveliness such as this every day, modestly dressed though the
young woman was in a dark cloak and gown which were both rather
spattered and slightly muddy at the hem.
Even appearing at less than her best, she was more lovely than many of
the women bedecked in the most expensive evening attire and jewels who
attempted to call upon Mr. Avenel and tried to force their way into his bed,
his life.
There was something about the way the girl held herself that proclaimed
her proud, aristocratic, and interestingly, quite possibly more than a handful
even for the experienced spark Randall Avenel.
Please come this way, Miss, er-
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
13
Miss Drake, she supplied. Im here to see him about-

He knew only too well why, and thought with a pang that this tenderlooking young girl would be yet another quick quiddle before Mr. Avenel
began to seek greener pastures
Though they certainly did not seem much greener than this, Hopkins
reflected, looking at her simple attire. Oh, she was most certainly of age, but
he would stake his wig that she was a virgin.
Randall had sworn he had never, and would never, debauch an innocent...
But then he had also sworn to his mother he would never pollute their family
home with any trollops.
Alas, though, things had changed quite radically for Mr. Avenel in the
past few months. The Earl of Hazelmere, he corrected himself. His only
remaining brothers death, followed scarcely a month later by the Earls, and
his mothers rapid decline, rendering her bed-ridden and incoherent, had
been the most devastating series of blows for the sensitive if wild young
man.
He had been dragged back from the fleshpots of Paris into the living hell
of seeing his brother and father die, and the vibrant mother he had adored
turned into a shadow of her former self.
Randall had done his duty, tended to her most solicitously. All his rakish
friends would never have recognised the devoted son who had bathed his
mothers temples and even changed her soiled garments and sheets with his
own two hands.
Today he had gone out to the club for the first time in weeks. Hopkins
could only guess that this lovely young girl was the sorry result of that
excursion.
The butler hesitated, opening his mouth to warn her that she was far too
good for the kind of life she was about to be dragged into.
The Earl is at home, is he not? Isolde asked, worry evident in her tone.
Oh Lord, let her not be too late. She needed this job so badly.
Yes, Miss.
Please, she said in a softer manner. I really do need to see him most
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
14
urgently. I know hes expecting me.

She did not say when, of course. The interviews were not supposed to
take place until tomorrow.
But if Fortune favoured the brave, she would show any amount of
fortitude necessary to help her family. Any amount except that required by
Chauncey Howell, who had had the audacity to say that though she was no
longer wealthy enough to be his bride, she could most certainly be his
mistress.
She would rather die than give in to him, have to earn a living on her
back.
She had thought him livid at her scathing refusal of his indecent
suggestion in no uncertain terms. But he had been rather good-spirited about
it on the whole, suggesting that the Earl of Hazelmere might have need of
her nursing services now that one of the women in his family was so ill.
Chauncey had come back to her house not long after their unpleasant
little scene with the advertisement in the paper, circled in red ink. It had
reminded her of the colour of blood, and she had shivered.
At a loss as to what else to do to support her family, however, she had
promptly put forward her application, and secured an interview, meant to
take place the following day at four.
But her cousin Dr. Antony Herriot and her sisters had encouraged her to
head to London the night before to get settled, and to pip the other
candidates at the post.
No man could fail to respect a woman with such ambition and eagerness
to be of use. She hoped to make her case long before he would ever see the
other applicants, and be predisposed in her favour.
She might even get to meet the woman in question. If she liked Isolde,
the job would most assuredly be hers.
Hopkins hesitated for a heartbeat longer. Then he nodded and showed her
into the small blue parlor Mr. Avenel had reserved for this meeting.
This girl was a delicate blossom, about nineteen if he was any judge, and
from his years of serving as his masters valet and factotum, he knew his
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
15
women.
But she seemed older, crushed and defeated. So much so that his heart
went out to the delicate auburn-haired girl with the most remarkably creamy
complexion and storm-tossed blue eyes, who was clad in unrelieved black,
from bonnet to cloak, her sodden plain black woollen gown clinging to her
lithe long legs with every step she took. She was half-drowned by the storm
that had been raging most of the day, by the look of her, and no doubt
freezing with the February chill.
Other men might have judged her as a mere whore, there for only one
thing. Hopkins actually asked if she would like tea or coffee.
She looked up and smiled gratefully. That is more than I could hope for.
You are too kind. Tea, please.
Ill bring it straight, give you a chance to tidy yourself, and then
announce you. The bathing chambers are under the stairs, just to your right.
Thank you, I would love the chance to freshen up.
This way, Miss. He gestured with his arm, and led her down the hall,
then allowed her to go ahead of him. He pointed at the drawing room door
once more, leaving it ajar, so she could get her bearings once she was
finished.
Take your time, Miss.
Thank you.
He vanished down the hall, while she went in to avail herself of the
sumptuously appointed chamber, washing her hands and face with the
running warm water which came out of the bright brass taps.
Once she had completed her toilette, she returned to the small blue sitting
room, and sat. She placed her reticule and gloves on the table, along with
the untrimmed black bonnet she had removed in front of the mirror in the
powder room.
She then glanced around to where she had tucked her small valise, out of
sight on the floor next to one of the finely carved and upholstered armchairs,
out of sight so as not to appear too presumptuous.
Then she stretched her hands before the fire, rubbing them for warmth
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
16
and to dispel her nerves.

It wasnt like her to behave so impetuously, but she needed this job.
Their entire family home was about to be broken up. They could scarcely
even afford new mourning clothes. She plucked at the damp old summer
weight gown, shivered, and sniffed. Poor Papa. How had things ever come
to such a pass.
Hopkins returned a short time later, and left the tea tray on the low table
beside the hearth. Then, with a heavy heart, he went to inform his master
that his visitor had arrived.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
17
Chapter Two
Randall was upstairs in the green and gold room which had once been
shared by his parents until his father had died and left his once-radiant
mother a devastated widow.
The earl had been in the prime of his life. Yet one minute he had been
there, the next, they had buried him in the family vault. The scandal had
taken a terrible toll...
Since the Earls death several months before, his mother had become a
mere wraith, to the point where she scarcely acknowledged the outside
world.
As Randall wished he had not, thinking resentfully of the time he had
wasted at the club that day gossiping with some of the men about the most
incredible new Incognita making the rounds of London. The Eternal Virgin.
She could produce the ultimate fantasy, play the part to perfection.
Randall, always willing to have a little flutter in more ways than one, had
bet Tubby Barnet ten guineas that he would be able to see through her
disguise. That the woman would do or say something that would give away
her ruse.
He did not normally have any woman in his home. But with his mother in
another world, and he so long without a paramour, what did it matter?
In any case, he would not pursue the ladybird all the way if he discovered
the ruse. If he managed to catch her out, he was to send her to the club with
a note from him and confirmation from her that she had not managed to trick
him after all, and that would be an end to the silly business.
So preoccupied with his mother was Randall that he never heard the
timid rap at the front door. He sat bathing his mothers forehead with some
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
18
rosewater.
His innards churned as the thought struck him that she was all he had left
now. Oh, there were a few distant cousins, but he had been a fifth son, and
yet still had ended up the heir.
He could remember when his home had rung with happy laughter. The
war had taken two of his brothers. First due to his fathers disapproval, and
finally through death.
A riding accident, and a sudden fever had taken the second and fourth. It
had been hard at times when hed been growing up, being so far out of the
limelight, the dreamy and artistic younger son who had never had anything
expected of him.
The cossetted son who could be indulged by both parents because he was
lovable and sweet-natured, so completely the opposite in personality to his
eldest brother, the uncompromising Michael, in every way.
Randall had adored Michael, worshipped him from afar. But he had been
prickly, forceful, determined, a Radical, and their mother had naturally taken
her husbands side in the many arguments they had had.
Michael had signed up at the very start of the war to liberate the Iberian
Peninsula in 1808. Though he had written home fairly regularly, and they
had seen him home on leave once or twice in the early days, once Robert
had been killed at Cuidad Roderigo, he had never come back. Ironically
Michael had been killed in the very last battle of the Peninsular war,
Toulouse, April 1814.
Ever since then, Randall had lived his life like a ship without a rudder,
directionless, idle, without purpose, He had grown more and more
debauched in an effort to feel something, anything, other than the crushing
grief and guilt every time he thought of how he was still alive, when so
many other better men had died.
When would the burning in the pit of his belly every time he thought of
the past ever stop? Would he ever live a normal life, with a proper family, a
wife, children of his very own?
Surely there has to be some woman in the world that could love me,
flawed though I am. A woman whom I could love to distraction? Love. I
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
19
would give anything to experience it again. But I would even settle for
admire, if I could ever trust any woman, he muttered to himself, re-tying
his cravat.
But no woman can be trusted. Theyre all false, faithless. All except you
Mother, and now youre leaving me too. He sighed bitterly and stroked her
once-raven hair back from her brow tenderly before planting a kiss there.
He longed to down a glass or two of brandy, anything to stop feeling the
regret for just a moment. But he needed to keep a clear head in case his
mother required him.
He couldnt remember the last time he had slept through the night.
Couldnt even recall the last time he had had a serious itch in his loins.
Perhaps he was well and truly growing up at last, when his todger no longer
did the thinking for him.
But then, it never really had. He had made a conscious decision to never
get closer to any woman than a quick futter. It had been fun, power, the
excitement of the hunt. The thrill of his own superiority, the women thinking
they had gulled him, yet being gulled themselves. He had determined early
on never to wed, never to be so indiscriminate or out of control that he could
ever be held to account for any by-blow. But then he had made this decision
after he had caught the childhood sweetheart he had worshipped to
distraction swiving another man.
A great deal had changed since then, he knew, but the memories still
jarred in his breast with all the force of a hammer blow. He clamped his
hand over his mouth to stem the tide of his rising gorge and rushed to the
water carafe.
He drank some thirstily before rinsing his mouth and spitting out into the
basin. He shook his head. Damnation. The choices we make... And think with
the glorious arrogance of youth that they are going to be the right ones.
But I was wrong, so wrong. God help me. If I lose you, Mother, I dont
know what the hell Im going to do, he muttered, before draining the glass.
He looked around the lovely room, and knew what his father would have
urged as his duty. Randall might be willing to wed if there were a woman he
could tolerate being with for more than a dance or two. But the only women
of that sort he had met so far were already married. He did not hold with
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
20
adultery in any form. He had known many women, mainly professionals.

But never had he trespassed against any man in the way he had been.
Even if they did happen to be single, he saw another huge impediment.
The women he met at social occasions only ever talked of balls and clothes.
Or each other, gossiping viciously. There was more to life than consorting
with the old tabbies to pick over each others bones.
Especially since the hags of the Town were so happy to continually pick
over his. They acted as though it were a personal affront to them that he had
never married.
The last time he had been in London he had been excessive, allowed
himself to make free with the delights the wanton women of the Town had
to offer. The Society dames had been hearing about his supposed exploits
ever since, for the tales got ever more sensational and salacious with the
retelling.
They should really know the truth about him: that he had murdered his
brother. If he had not killed him, Francis would be the Earl now, not
himself.
The knowledge burning in his breast was almost too much to bear. He
resisted the temptation of the decanter, and went back to his mother's side
only by the greatest act of willpower.
As he sat once more, Randall looked around the room grimly, thinking
what a gilded cage he had built for himself. He should have had the courage
to cut himself off from his family years ago as penance over what he had
done.
But he had continued to be the favoured son, though he had done nothing
to earn it other than be blandly charming to his parents and go about his
merry way painting his watercolours and copulating with any bit of skirt he
fancied. Still they had indulged him.
What he had really wanted was for them to put their foot down the way
they had with his brother Michael. Anything to show they cared, thought he
could do something with his life. Had a bit of faith in him. But no, he had
gambled, drunk, and whored, and they had waited for him to mature. Waited
all this time.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
21
Well, he had certainly grown up now, he thought with a sigh, stroking the
cloth over his mothers fevered brow once more.
As a punishment, he tried to remember what his former fiance had looked
like. Had Clarissa really been worth all of the agony and disappointment? He
recalled her pale blond hair like spun gold, her rigid posture, her frosty
demeanour toward him most of the time, most especially when he had
displeased her. Which had been more and more sudden and increasingly
often at the end. Until that fateful day he had found her in his brothers arms
keening like a banshee as he had stoked her in the stables like the strumpet
she was.
Oh, Clarissa had been beautiful, everyone had had to grant her that. But
like an ice queen, so rigid and cool that he might as well have tried to make
love to a bronze statue. Even her pale grey eyes, like steel, had reminded
him of daggers, sharp and cold. Deadly. Except when Francis had been
between her thighs....
He slammed down the tumbler and cloth and pressed his hands together
to stop them shaking. Why was he thinking about this now, of all times?
Sometimes day could pass without him feeling the crushing sense of guilt,
though he knew it was always just below the surface, always in his dreams.
Randall straightened his shoulders and told himself to stop feeling so
sorry for himself. He had everything most people ever dreamed of. A
fortune, title, magnificent home, choices. Why pine for what he couldnt
have?
He fluffed his mothers pillow and tidied the table. He dusted off his
clothing, making sure he had not got anything all over himself when hed
tried to feed his mother some supper. If only she would eat....
He was determined to enjoy himself this evening with the Cytherean,
even if it was all just a bet. He was too tired for anything else but the little
game of cat and mouse, but he would enjoy a small diversion from his
gloomy thoughts. Hed get a bit of a tiddle, and that would be that. The last
thing he wanted was to think of the chilling Clarissa, for that would mean
reminding himself too of his crime, her betrayal, and the irrevocable break
up of the family he had adored.
He knew hed been young, only eighteen, but his age had been no excuse.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
22
Murder was murder. It had left his family in ruins and set him on the path
which he now traveled.
He grimaced in disgust, and took another sip of water from his nearby
glass to wash the foul taste from his mouth. No, tonight he was going to be
dashing and debonair. For a while at least he would be able to pretend that
he was proud to be the new Earl of Hazelmere. That he was the toast of
London society for his education and accomplishments, as Michael had
been, not for his legendary skills in the bedroom and at the gaming tables.
Both exaggerated legends, but like all legends, growing greater with each
passing day, and night.
He could pretend that his father had not died in disgrace. Viscount
Linley, who had exposed Randalls father so cruelly, had already paid for his
role in the whole sorry affair, though through no fault of Randalls own. He
was ashamed that he needed to remind himself of his self-appointed duty to
see who really had been responsible for the crime the former earl had been
publicly accused of. The accursed bastard who had lied, falsified papers,
would pay one way or the other.
Then he took a deep, steadying breath. These recollections were all too
grim. Randall didnt want to remember. It might well be the anniversary of
his appalling crime, but that was no reason to dwell on all his errors
Ah, that was it. The anniversary of poor Francis' death. That had no doubt
triggered off this painful period of self-examination, he decided as he
adjusted his cuffs.
But he needed oblivion now, not recollection. He flashed himself another
smile, then forced himself to do better. He sighed, and re-tied his cravat.
This pointless wool-gathering was not going to get anything done.
He called to the timid little maid whose turn it was to keep vigil by his
mothers side.
I shall be downstairs in the small blue drawing room. Call me
immediately if theres any change. He stooped to kiss his mothers cheek.
I shall, sir.
He was just about to step out of the room when there was a tap at the
door.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
23
Excuse me sir, but theres a young lady to see you. Miss Drake.
Downstairs in the blue drawing room, as you asked.
Thank you, Hopkins. Ill be down in a moment.
Randall adjusted his cuffs and checked himself in one of the gilt rococo
mirrors which flanked each door in the long corridor.
Let the games begin, he murmured.
He fixed his best smile on his face, though inside he was cold. His was
the ideal face for playing cards, someone had once said. Impassive.
Emotionless.
A few of his conquests and paramours had also said the same thing,
though their accusation had been bitter, furious even. His surface charm
masked an inability to care about anyone other than himself, they had said.
He laughed inwardly, his thoughts bitter as wormwood. If only that were
true. If only he hadnt cared about his family so much. And the faithless
woman he had once thought he loved, and had destroyed his life and his
brother's for. And had been seeking love and redemption fruitlessly as a
result ever since.
Didn't care? He only wished he didn't care so much.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
24
Chapter Three
Randall headed downstairs and stepped into the intimate drawing room
briskly. He held out his hand and took hers in a lingering caress. My dear
Miss Drake. Delighted.
Their bare hands tingled together. Her shocked gaze flew to his face.
Isolde gaped. This was the Earl of Hazelmere? She had expected a much
older man. The position was supposed to be looking after the Lady of the
house, after all. Mother, or wife?
The ad had implied an older woman.
There had to be a wife, she thought with an uncharacteristic stab of
jealousy, and a string of lovers a mile long. A man like him, well.
Shed never seen a man of such physical beauty. She tried to recollect
what she knew of the familythe youngest son a rake of the first order by
all accounts. This had to be him!
Drat. She always felt so angry around predatory men, a result of all the
work she had done to help fallen women at her cousins clinic. They were all
victims of men just like this spectacularly seductive one.
As she stared at him with wide-eyed wonder, however, she had to admit
with grudging admiration that she could see why women were prepared to
risk or even surrender their virtue to be with a man such as Randall Avenel.
His elegant brow, fine aquiline nose, lush lips, dimpled chin, looked as
though they had been carved by a sculptor intent upon absolute classical
perfection.
His elegant cheek bones and slightly golden complexion conveyed the
impression of a man in the prime of youth and health who loved the
outdoors. His wide dark blue eyes, thickly lashed and slightly tilted in the
outer corners, gave him the look of a man of the world, all seeing, all
knowing.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
25
He towered over her own tall height of five feet five. The breadth of his
shoulders in his magnificently tailored black evening jacket was most
impressive. He seemed so larger than life, she wondered how he managed to
fit though the portal. His vast thighs, the way his trousers molded to him, he
was all male from top to toe.
She looked up at his snowy white shirt and stock, the silver brocade
waistcoat and matching cravat. The only thing marring his perfect evening
garb was the absence of gloves on his huge and capable but also very
sensitive-looking hands. Other than that, he would have put Beau Brummel
to shame.
She risked another peep at his eyes. They were easily his most
magnificent attribute, a deep dark blue reminiscent of lapis lazuli, with some
lighter and darker blue flecks interspersed. She had the odd sensation of
them being both shadowy and candid. Here was a man with secrets, pain,
she reflected. She tried to pull herself away from that chain of thought
before it took her places she didn't want to go with this man, of all people.
Her prospective employer, she reminded herself, as they continued to stare at
one another assessingly in a silence strangely unawkward.
"Please, do sit, and take some tea."
She stammered her thanks, feeling more and more draw to him, to his
energies, his umbra, shadow self that simmered just below his dazzlingly
handsome surface.
Her gift, as the wise women of her district had said, was both a blessing
and a curse. She did not want to read this man. He was to be her employer.
He was no doubt married.
Still, the fact that she was able to read him at all was a good thing. Since
her family troubles had come upon them, shed been unable to focus for
more than a minute, to sense anything. It was as if all around her were dark,
and she were living in some sort of cocoon just waiting to burst into the
light.
Except that it had been darkness. Father had died, leaving their estate in
chaos and them without a penny until matters could be looked into properly.
Thus she was here to beg for a job. Yet she couldnt seem to open her
mouth to explain her boldness in coming here. The remarkable lapis eyes
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
26
were gazing at her appreciatively in a way which made her acutely aware,
almost for the first time, of the fact that she was a woman.
At the same time, there was a deep-seated wariness such as she saw on
some mens faces when they were playing cards, or meeting business
acquaintances for the first time, and sizing up their potential partners. Or
adversaries.
For some reason he felt her to be a challenge and was trying to assess her,
she sensed. She ought to have been insulted at the way he was looking at
her. Instead she grew more flustered. Really, had he no shame? Ogling her
so boldly?
But perhaps she was misreading him. After all, he had every reason to
find out more about her if she was to be employed in his household and
charged with looking after someone he cared about.
Her special sense flapped at the edge of her consciousness, rising up so
forcefully it could not be denied. She had a vision of a lovely raven-haired
youth, a sandy-haired young man, an alluring young woman with hair like
spun flax and eyes like ice.
Then there was a horse, screams, and blackness. Not just blackness, a
deep pit. A stable block, and a blinding flash of red.
She could feel the heat, hear the alarmed screech of horses. A dark figure,
cold, scuttling... An icy hand closing around her neck.
The last sensation was so real she started. One hand flew to her throat.
But the Earl was still a good six feet away from her, uttering some
meaningless pleasantry or another. He couldnt possibly have touched her.
A black and red aura swirled around him now. She could see it as clearly
as the teacup she was clenching so hard in her hand that it almost broke.
The swirl of energy was so powerful, she wondered how he could bear it.
She was so terrified for him she nearly shrieked. She had had readings
before, but never ever so disturbing as this.
Was this why she had comenot just for the job, but to help him, and his
family? Save him? Had Fate sent her here to save them both?
At this incredible notion Isolde blinked and swayed. Randall moved
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
27
quickly to catch her by the elbows before she fell off the settee, thinking it
part of the game, the demure woman overpowered by masculine force.
Except he hadnt even said anything even remotely suggestive.
The heat of his hands flamed right through the thin sleeves of her
summer-weight black gown as he held her. Isolde let herself be held. To
struggle would be to land face first on the Turkey carpet.
So she allowed him to support her and forced herself to breathe evenly.
The image had been so strong, she could hear the scream of the black
stallion as it went over the embankment and...
He looked at the tea tray and seized upon the conversational inspiration it
gave, marvelling at how he had become so tongue-tied. She was the most
spectacular-looking woman he had ever seen, with her auburn hair, flawless
complexion, and wide blue eyes.
Her face was a perfect oval, with high slanting cheekbones and brows,
long lashes, a dainty nose and full ruby-red lips. She looked far too delicate
for the life she was being forced to lead.
You will forgive me if the house is not quite as you would wish. Things
have been very difficult since my mother fell ill. You have evidently had a
long, cold journey, judging from your spattered garments. Please, come
closer to sit by the fire. I can send out for something hot to eat-
No, no food, thank you. I couldnt manage a bite. This has all been so
distressing, the uncertainty, the travelling.
Pray calm yourself. Youre safely here now.
She allowed him to comfort her despite her best intentions to be
professional and competent in front of her would-be employer. She pushed
her strange visions to one side in order to focus on the matter at hand,
getting the job she so desperately needed to help her family. They had to
come first, no matter what feelings she had for the Earl of Hazelmere.
She knew she looked young, but her skills which she had acquired at the
womens clinic at Bethnal Green for the past two years were really quite
substantial.
He raised the teapot in his elegant hands. Will you take more? he
offered.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
28
He moved to pour for her, but she shook her head. Oh, er, no, thank
you.
Take off your cloak, at least. The hem of it is quite damp.
He smiled as he helped her off with her dark woollen garment. She was
certainly good. The spattered cloak, the gown. He had never seen any
Cytherean so plainly dressed.
Oddly, the demure black linen with only a touch of lace at the top of the
high collar was enough to inflame him in a most surprising manner. It
draped over her magnificently rounded figure in a way that clouds of voile
could not.
Her high breasts, firm pliable waist, lean flare of the hips from the tiny
waist were all most voluptuous, putting him in mind of some of the more
salacious pictures he had seen at his club.
What a blooming little flower.
He took in her appearance from head to toe and could find no flaw. The
simple hairstyle, lack of jewellery or any cosmetics, were all perfect. She
really did look like a wide-eyed ingenue. Especially with the way she kept
trying to peep at his face when she thought he wasnt looking.
Well, if he could not tell by looks, he could most certainly tell by the way
she responded to him physically. He would make an advance, she would
respond like a practiced woman, and he would have her.
His bare hands touched her shoulders lightly to press her against the back
of the settee. The most peculiar wave of sensation washed through him, an
odd sort of recognition on a visceral level.
As he looked at her, he was sure he had never seen anyone so lovely in
all his life. He certainly would have recalled them having met before.
As he stroked down her shoulders, chafing her arms to warm her, since
her shivering seemed real enough, Randall felt as though he could barely
remain coherent, let alone conduct his planned campaign of exposing the
womans true profession. He had thought to get her to betray herself quickly
and send her off to the club to get his friend to pay up.
Now he wanted to spend time with her, hear her speak with that lilting
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
29
voice of hers. Wanted to touch her incredible auburn hair, which was like
liquid fire. It glowed in the light, beckoning to his fingers like a candle flame
luring moths to their demise.
He raised one hand to her luxuriant hair, dressed simply in a coiled crown
atop her head, with a series of ringlets across her delicate brow. Her
tempestuous blue eyes. What was it about them that made them seem to
storm and rage with some sort of hidden depths? He wanted her to reveal all
to him, take him inside her and.
He laughed to himself shakily and rose from the sofa on unsteady feet.
He went over to the decanter to pour them both a glass of sherry. She was
good, he had to grant her that. He pressed it into her nerveless hand, their
bare fingers touching, and watched as she took a sip.
Pray go closer to warm yourself by the fire, Miss Drake.
Am I keeping you from your wife, guests? Isolde asked suddenly.
Randall started. I dont understand.
Pray excuse me. I was assuming from the way you were dressed so
finely that you had another engagement. That Im taking up your time this
evening. Please forgive my temerity in coming here, but when I heard you
were looking for a paid companion
Yes, just so, he said, not willing for the illusion to come to an end quite
so quickly. But there is no one here but us, and no one expected, Miss
Drake. Nor am I married. If I had but known you were to do me the honor of
arriving so soon, I would have gladly had supper prepared.
"You have come a long way. I would take you out, but you dont appear
to be clad for an evening on the Town, and I fear the trip here has quite done
you in.
Isolde lapsed against the back of the garland- and ribbon-patterned sofa
colored in pale blue on blue silk. Really, he was being most civil considering
she had burst in upon him in so unseemly a manner.
But appearances could be deceiving. He might be very good at holding
his passions in check. He looked so huge and powerful, dangerous even, that
she hated to think what he was like when roused to a display of temper.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
30
Once again she saw an image of him... as a young man, she guessed. It
might have been a close relative, for he had the same handsome dark looks.
He was in a stable. And had been in that stable for years, ever since....
She saw the flash of red and black as she looked him, and blinked. No, it
was only a trick of the light. It had to be...
Isolde tried to take a sip from the glass of wine he had just pressed into
her fingers. Before she realized what she was about, she had nearly spilled
the glass all over the front of her frock.
She must have been far more tired than she had imagined, the stress and
anxiety driving her on to London, but now leaving her fatigued and spent.
It was bad enough that she wasnt able to control the sparking feeling
under her skin. Now she was having more visions in five minutes than she
had in months. And what disturbing ones they had been.
Finally at her destination, she was just about exhausted. Not to mention
the fact that her plan had not extended to what she would do if he said no to
her request for employment. She knew she could help, and she needed the
money. The trouble was , she really had nowhere else to go if he refused her
request this evening, or said he needed time to think about it.
Well, she did have a couple of places she could try, old acquaintances
who would be kindly enough disposed toward her for old times sake to
allow her one nights repose under their roof before she would have to head
back home in despair.
And there was always her cousin and the clinic for a bed in the ward and
a hot meal. But she didn't like to prevail upon Antony for help, and she had
to remain optimistic at all costs if she was going to get through this. Even if
he said no, something was bound to turn up. And anything had to be better
than becoming Chauncey Howells mistress.
Randall took the glass from her nerveless fingers and began to warm her
hands with his own, enjoying the delicate feel of them in his. My dear,
youre fatigued. The stress, your nerves. Have you some sal volatile?
Im not one for the vapors, sir. It is rather cold, though. Its been a hard
winter this year.
The contact of his warm hands upon hers was an unexpected delight. She
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
31
almost pulled away from his grasp, it seemed so intimate. Isolde told herself
he was only trying to help. As they traveled up to exert friction upon her
arms to stimulate the circulation, she shivered with delight and could feel the
sip of wine coursing through her veins. For the first time since shed left
home, since Father had passed away and they had lost everything, she felt
calm, relaxed even.
Randall took one of her hands and breathed on it, as a child would when
out playing in snow. She sucked a ragged breath into her lungs sharply and
held it there.
Oh no. Please, not this. Not like Chauncey. Not another man trying to
make her earn a living on her back.
She could not allow herself to be deceived, compromised. She knew she
had no experience of men whatsoever, for she was not the kind of girl that
gentlemen had ever clamored after.
Oh, she was lovely enough. They all said that. But she had only ever had
a modest fortune to speak of compared with other girls in her set, and her
engagement to Chauncey had been an established thing between their
families for many years.
Shed been the one who had kept postponing the nuptials. Her indulgent
Papa had allowed her to pursue her other interests, helping the poor at the
womens clinic, working as a midwife and apothecary. It was a very noble
and worthwhile profession, to be sure, but not one Chauncey had ever had
the least sympathy with. He had found her aspirations to a career in
medicine ridiculous, an embarrassment.
She knew he and all of his friends mocked her behind her back. She was
far too bright and perceptive about peoples motives, and had little time for
nonsense, which let out he and most of his acquaintance as congenial
companions.
The only men who found her interesting were earnest young Radicals
like Dr. Herriot, her cousin, who worked at the free clinic for fallen women
in Bethnal Green. Through him she had learned much, and improved her
circle of acquaintance to encompass many of his large group of particular
friends, known as the Rakehells.
Chauncey, being a staunch Tory blue-blood, would most heartily have
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
32
disagreed with her considering them an improvement. But then he seemed to

disagree with everything else which seemed to come out of her mouth these
days. It was almost as though he were deliberately making himself as
unpleasant as possible, the better to triumph over her when she finally went
to his bed.
Well, it would be a cold day in hell when she did. She was not without
friends and sense. Dr. Herriot and Philip Marshall and his wife Jasmine
would help her if this little plan of hers failed. But as long as she was here,
she had nothing to lose by trying to make a favourable impression upon the
Earl.
It appeared Isolde had, though not in a way she had ever imagined.
The Earls lips loomed so close to hers she could feel his breath whisper
against her cheek. Their gazes met for a brief moment, and she dropped her
gaze to look at his sensual mouth.
Taking the demure downsweep of her lashes to be coy invitation, he
covered her lips with his own in a kiss which was both sweet and
devastating.
Isolde was stunned by the act, for the last thing she had ever expected
was that the man she hoped would be her prospective employer would
actually have the effrontery to-But even more stunning was the fact that rather than filling her with
horror, Isolde found her arms creeping around his neck, her lips pressing
even more tightly to his own.
His busy fingers were already removing her pins, tumbling her luxurious
tresses down over her shoulders, running his fingers through it to loosen the
coils so that it flowed freely over her sinuous back and down across her
breasts in riotous waves.
She held her breath as he stroked his hand from the top of her head down
to the nape of her neck as though sampling the finest silk. His other hand
angled her body more tightly against his, her breasts taut against her gown.
They burned through the silk brocade of his waistcoat, the linen of his shirt.
The muscles rippling underneath the expensive fabric practically begged to
be touched.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
33
She found her slender fingers were more than eager to comply. One shirt
stud popped, then another, as she took in his soft skin, coated with lightly
downy hair, and continued to explore in eager fascination.
She had always thought Chauncey a handsome man in a hard, earthy
way, but he had certainly never felt like this under her hands. Not that she
had ever....
If she had had time for further reflection, Isolde would have realized
there had to be some kind of mistake. No one had ever kissed her like this
before, nay, not even her own fiance, let alone an utter stranger. Claimed her
mouth with such a skillful poise, a certainty that she would never ever dream
of refusing him. His tongue glided along hers, both giving and demanding,
thoroughly exploring all she had to offer, determined to taste all of her
wares.
Yet still it wasnt enough. Even as he was ravishing the inside of her
mouth, he grasped her chin and tilted it slightly to deepen the kiss still
further. When she was curious enough to let the tip of her own tongue
explore his lush lips and the core of his mouth for a moment, the pressure on
the back of her neck and buttocks increased tenfold, until she was sure there
was no part of her body where she and he did not touch.
The silken softness of his flesh was so warm and inviting, her fingers
convulsively worked upwards and then downwards, until she had parted his
waistcoat and shirt fully and began to tug his tails out of the waistband of his
trousers, driven on by some inner compulsion which was frightening but
exhilarating at the same time.
She marvelled at how supple his skin and indeed entire body was. In his
evening clothes he had looked like an unapproachable demigod in black and
silver, cool, aloof, as cold and deadly as a stiletto. But the column of his
throat as she bared it was warm, soft too. Nothing unapproachable or aloof
here.
Dangerous? Yes, most certainly. But gentle too, his desperate embrace
easing, now cupping her against his aroused body as though she were as
fragile as a butterfly in his arms.
Randall practically purred in the back of his throat as she slowly undid
his clothing with one hand, the other creeping up to run her fingers through
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
34
his lush dark hair. He had never had anyone caress him with such a
devastatingly seductive combination of assuredness and timidity. She
certainly played her role well, he had to give her that.
He raised one hand to kiss and began to suck her fingertips lightly before
breathing against her silky hair, Youre so lovely, little one. I had no idea it
could be like this, so sweet, yet so scorching. Everywhere you touch me, Im
set afire.
She nodded. I feel the same. But Ive never experienced such, such
incredible scorching. How is it quenched? Does it just burn down to ashes?
she whispered, nuzzling his ear.
Randall's arousal hammered even harder now. Oh, she was good all right.
Wonderful in fact. Totally without inhibition or shame if what her mouth and
hands were doing to him was any indication.
If you carefully tend a fire, love, and keep stoking it, it can blaze hotly
and be kept going indefinitely, he murmured against the hollow of her
throat.
He breathed in deeply, expecting some worldly scent on her hot flesh or
permeating her simple gown might give the game away. But she was
compellingly alluring in her innocence. He could detect nothing but the light
fragrance of roses on her heated skin and lemon verbena in her silken hair.
As she continued to explore him with a seemingly virginal hesitancy, it
set the conflagration raging though him until his loins felt scalded. On the
one hand he couldnt wait to bed her. On the other he told himself not to
allow his impatience to get the better of him.
No, this was far too incredible to end hastily with a businesslike thrust or
two. It was more like several hours of slowly and patiently learning what
other marvelous tricks she had in her repertoire.
What on earth was happening to him? Was it possible the little minx had
actually turned his head with only a few kisses? But then, if she couldnt
satisfy him, no one could.
Isolde wondered how many women he had done this with. How many he
had deceived with his false flattery. But as the inferno raging within him
scorched her as well, she decided she didnt care...
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
35
The sensations blazing up within her were almost more than she could
bear. She had to put an end to the wildfire coursing through her body like
molten lava, even though she wasn't sure how she ever could, with each kiss
and touch leaving her aching for more.
Isolde began to tug the shirt and waistcoat off his shoulders, and untied
and flung aside his cravat impatiently. She reached up to undo his stock
next. He slowed her with his hands resting lightly over hers, wanting to
prolong the contact as he nuzzled her cheek and reclaimed her lips. She
certainly was the most remarkable kisser. It was not something he normally
enjoyed, seeming too intimate with some of the women he spent a few
moments dalliance with.
Now he wondered why he had never appreciated such a simple delight
before. He savoured her as though he were sipping champagne. She certainly
set all sorts of feelings fizzling though him as she began to kiss him back
with increasing boldness.
Her mouth travelled down his chin and throat. She shuddered with
longing as she inhaled his crisp masculine scent, piney forest with a hint of
rum and lime.
By the time she got down to his flat male nipple, he could bear it no
more. Randall swung her up into his arms, and strode from the room and
through the hall with a desperate urgency he had not felt in years. Not since
he had been with his first woman at the age of eighteen.
None of the women he had been with since his heart had been torn out
had ever made him feel like such a callow youth. But this little Bird of
Paradise was making him soar through the skies.
He knew it was only a paid transaction, but it felt so right, so real. It was
supposed to be business. But sometimes he had found something to like in
the women he entertained himself with.
He had wanted The Eternal Virgin for the novelty; she had certainly
provided it thus far. Would it not also be a novelty to have her as a regular
mistress, enjoy her for more than just a few hours, one night?
To trust this tempting little handful enough to ask her to stay, so he could
find out more about what other incredible delights she had to offer?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
36
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
37
Chapter Four
What was it about this dainty little Bird of Paradise that set him so
alight? Randall wondered as he moved through the house purposefully
towards a bedchamber with her in his arms.
Did she really have some special as yet undiscovered talent to descry in
order to win his bet at the club? Or was it the combination of innocence and
wonder which he found so erotic?
She was still clinging to his chest, suckling his nipple with eager
fascination as he strode up the stairs two at a time. He hesitated for only a
second before taking her into his own room rather than one of the guest
rooms.
He was truly breaking all the rules now, for no woman had ever been in
his own home before, let alone his own inner sanctum.
It was the only room in the house which reflected his true personality,
contained his favorite books, furniture and art he had chosen for himself. It
was the only chamber in the vast townhouse which was not full of treasures
and intended for public display.
His loins surged desperately as she raked his throat with her small nails,
testing his warm flesh as though to explore every inch of it with wide-eyed
wonder. Still maintaining the illusion that she was The Eternal Virgin, he
was gentle as he placed her down upon the bed. He sat facing her as she
kissed down his neck and pushed his jacket and then waistcoat completely
off his shoulders, leaving only his linen shirt.
Seeing her awed response as his shirt parted, and the confusion which
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
38
crossed her features, Randall kissed her full on the mouth, mingling tongues
once more while he began to undo her gown. It had a simple enough pair of
side fastenings at the waist. He half-expected a murmur of protest as the
garment was taken from her.
But Isolde made no demur. In fact, she kissed Randall back even more
ardently as his hands lightly stroked the tops of her now bare shoulders, his
thumbs dipping down to circle her nipples.
He made a mental note to himself about the delightful ease of removing a
day gown. Most of his interludes were set for the evening, a follow-up to a
ball or party, when it seemed to take forever to get out of gowns, corsets and
jewels.
Suddenly he had the most vivid image of making love to this
breathtaking woman in the sunlight.
But no. He had never had them to stay so long, for more than a futter or
two. He was a creature of the night. The thought of sharing a bed to sleep in
was a foreign concept to him. It led to all sorts of ideas of permanence if the
woman was a decent one, and repelled him if the girl was a working one. For
he had ever been ashamed of his lusts, even as he had given in to them
because he simply refused to restrain himself.
Randall would have risen to close the shutters, but the warm, willing
woman clung to him so importunately he did not want to leave her for even a
second. He slipped one strap of her chemise down over her shoulder, and
licked and nuzzled until he fastened his lips on one breast.
Gentle warmth radiated outwards as she cradled his head against her. Her
flesh was delightfully sweet and succulent. He latched onto her other nipple
like a starving man.
It had been some time, though not so long that he should be so aquiver
with such towering desire. But the light fragrance of rose petals which clung
to her, innocent yet heady, clean and fresh, drove him on inexplicably.
For it was sultry too, he thought, dipping his nose into her fragrant
cleavage for a second before returning to the first breast to nip and tease it.
Then he got a response that filled him with surprised delight. Her hands
were suddenly all over him, face, hair, neck, shoulders, which were straining
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
39
through the linen shirt.

She tried to tug it off his shoulders, but he stayed her hands, pressing
them back to his chest. Damn, she was going too fast for his liking. Too
enthusiastically. But of course one could still be a virgin and eager. It didnt
have to be a terrifying experience, a despoiling stroke.
He became even more excited by the illusion of a first love so sublime
that the woman yielded herself, her true treasure, her heart and body and
soul, simply because she couldnt help herself.
His usual type of woman rarely ever touched him affectionately.
Certainly never as heatedly as this. The fantasy took over and he imagined
himself paying court to her, sipping tea, and then, the longing looks turning
to long tempestuous loving...
Over his massive chest, down his hard abdomen, and back up over his
shirt, her fingers explored. Before he could stop her a second time, she slid
his shirt all the way off and stroked down his long hard back. He watched
for any change of expression, and her eyes now opened in surprised wonder.
She missed a beat staring at his rippling muscles, before placing her hands
upon them almost reverently, her warm palms gliding over him as she kissed
him even harder.
She ran one hand through his hair, and he had never felt so soothed, or
powerfully aroused. His broad expanse of chest was caressed thoroughly,
and she even rubbed and stroked his nipples with the balls of her thumbs,
peaking them like her own and setting his whole body to clenching. He had
never known how responsive they could be.
Thus far he had not discovered any tell-tale signs of her profession, but
now that her gown was fully off, he scrutinised her underthings. Something
too fine or sultry would give the game away.
But the thought of sending her packing to the club to inform them he had
won the bet was the last thing he could possibly ever consider now that this
prime article had fallen into his lap. He would gladly give up the ten guineas
and count himself a damned lucky man.
Despite his loins giving him a completely different and increasingly
urgent message, Randall forced himself from the bed, still wanting to take
his time. He manoeuvred her up onto her feet in front of him for a moment
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
40
to slide the good-quality linen chemise down to her ankles. Now she was
clad in nothing more than a pair of lacy drawers, and her stockings and
garters. All good quality, a bit worn, no cloying perfume or dirt, no blowsy
bits of satin and silk.
Her rose-smell was exquisite as he kissed a trail down between her
breasts to her waist as he moved to unfasten the tapes of her drawers. It was
like the fragrance of paradise, all woman, but delicate, pure.
Nothing worse than an odiferous womansometimes he had turned them
out because they were too rank in their personal habits. Now he found
himself even breathing in the scent of her underarms. The girl was
perfection. He could find no flaw, hard as he tried.
Dared he even go lower? Many women had done it to him. He had heard
his friends talk about it all the time, though usually grudgingly. But he had
never trusted or wanted anyone enough to
She too seemed intent on exploring all of him, taking deep breaths,
drawing his nipples into her mouth, running her lips from one to the other in
a sweeping caress which had his manhood surging into the curve of her
supple stomach through the confining fabric of his trousers.
Now all that remained of her clothing were the stockings and garters,
which he left on for the moment. They were no impediment, and might even
prove quite fun. They were of silk, good quality, not overly expensive, and
embroidered at the ankle with a little chain of intertwined roses. The garters
were pink satin, charming, virginal.
The scent of her perfume filled his head and made him long to touch, to
view, her rosette of love. Well, more than view it, but he would play this
game to the end whatever way she chose.
But first he needed to feel her exquisite caress on other parts of his
anatomy. He moved her hands from his back and chest. With his fingers
over them lightly, he slid them down to the waistband of his trousers, giving
her the hint before pulling the coverlet down to expose the pale gold sheets.
She took the suggestion. In the split second after she had parted the
fastenings and accidentally brushed her palm against his velvet tip, his
control nearly left him.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
41
He pressed her backwards upon the bed intently. He stroked up one

stockinged leg, enjoying the glide of the silk, before tugging at the garter
ribbon.
Now he wanted her completely bare, no access to any part of her to be
denied him. She was a vision, a wonder. His hands ached to feel every inch
of her glorious soft skin. Kissing her like a starving man, he slid each
stocking down with feather-light touches of his fingertips, before removing
them and both her shoes.
Tell me your first name, sweetest, he whispered, trailing kisses down
her legs.
Isolde, she panted.
Isolde. Even the way he said it was like a heated caress. And Im
Randall. And you are so incredibly lovely.
He caressed her feet and ankles in a long sweep. She gasped and licked
her lips, causing him to move up the bed to deepen the kiss. Her little pink
tongue was darting maddeningly in and out in imitation of his own caress,
enough to drive him nearly to distraction. His enjoyment was bound to be
sweet after months without a woman, but really, he had never enjoyed a girl
more.
Randall was accustomed to bedroom games, pleas, protests, erotic
suggestions, even women willing to engage in a bit of rough and tumble,
spanking, light bondage, anything for the novelty. Women acting coy,
tearful, or pouncing upon him and trying to dominate him. They had been
fun, a bit of variety, though he despised anything violent, and bondage had
never attracted him. He had never trusted anyone enough to tie him down,
and he loathed his own sexual nature enough to never want anything
suggestive of force.
Randall had known dozens of women, but never had he encountered any
woman making love with him with the awed sense of wonder which
emanated from Isolde as she gave herself up to the thrilling sensations his
every kiss and touch filled her with.
His head swam with a sense of his own power. He was alarmed at the
ravening need to possess this beauty completely. The role of the shy but
willing virgin was a wonderful trick. He had had one once, though she had
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
42
been so timid it had been a frostily unsatisfying experience for both of them.
But then, she had lied and said she was experienced. Otherwise he would
never have broken his other concrete rule to never despoil an innocent. By
the time he had found out, the damage had already been done, though he had
been certain as he had with all his other women that he had not left her with
any lasting consequences to regret apart from her own foolishness.
But this timid yet bold woman was a working girl, her virginity an act, a
mere bedroom game. Conflict warred in his breast as two contrary urges
reared their head.
She was a practiced whore; she knew what men wanted. Randall yearned
for her so badly he knew he could take her now, in an instant, hot and hard,
with no thought for delicacy as one ought to have with a genuine virgin
lover. He was a large man, and she was small, demure. He had had women
feign begging for mercy. In his power, to do with as he liked. He could
switch the game now to the big bad ravisher, which suited his rampaging
mood to a tee.
His other desire was to give up control for once, not be the rakish man of
the world. Play the girls game out until the end. Pretend they were an
idealised romantic couple discovering the wonder of young love. He would
tease her to pleasure, though he knew most working women only pretended
they enjoyed it, and only if the client asked them to.
In this girls case, though, he felt sure he could detect true pleasure. He
noted the tell-tale blush of passion flooding her features. Her moistness, the
shivering of pleasure and arching of hips were also signs. She was
undoubtedly a consummate actress, but it would be hard to fake such damp
and heated arousal as had sprung up since theyd first begun.
Randall set himself the challenge now to make this woman the most
eager young virgin any actress could ever be. Except Isolde would not be
acting; he was going to thrill her and by turn himself in the most delightful
ways.
He raised his lips to murmur against her ear, Do you want me, darling?
All of me?
All common sense fled in the face of her overwhelming desire. She was
not afraid. And yes, she most certainly wanted him. Yes, please. All of you.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
43
Youre so very beautiful. I had no idea...

He sagged against her for a moment, nearly unmanned. He knew he was
handsome, attractive to all women, but beautiful?
That word certainly failed to describe her, with her peaches and cream
complexion, flawless skin, magnificent breasts which leapt into his hands as
though they ached for his touch and his alone.
She opened her cornflower blue eyes to gaze at him with undisguised
admiration. He was sure she was the most alluring woman he had ever met.
Was it something in her eyes telling him how to play the game? Soft and
gentle, long and lingering?
He knew he ought to get back to his duties, his mothers sickbed, but he
had been tending to her needs so long, without any respite. He had guessed
he would have the whore out the door in five minutes. Now he was
convinced that not even a whole night would be enough. Every instinct in
his body told him to savour the moment, that this lissome young girl was
offering him something so special he would be a fool not to grab it with both
hands and enjoy every second of it.
Randall raised his head to look at Isolde, and kissed her once again. Her
lashes did not flutter down to conceal her gaze this time. For the space of a
heartbeat he had the uneasy sensation that there was something about all of
this that he was missing. The way her kisses, her whole body fit with his, the
way her voice was like music to his ears, her rosy fragrance a balm to his
soul. The magic of her hands on his heated flesh. The way her hair
shimmered like a flame in the candlelight.
He started as she stroked down his abdomen and placed her hand upon
his thigh. He took it gently and moved it upwards to cup him, preparing her
for his own hand an instant later. She stiffened slightly, but only opened her
mouth and legs further. Here was a practiced woman indeed, for her touch
was exquisite, light but firm.
He resisted the urge to toss her on her back and bury himself inside her.
He kissed her gently and soothed her with his hands sweeping down over her
shoulders and upper arms, before bringing one hand down to tease a rosytipped breast.
He felt so achingly needy that he thought hed be unbearably
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
44
disappointed when it finally ended. For there was only one way for this
game to end.
Yet still Randall held back, contenting himself to suckle her lush breasts
like a starving man devouring his first meal in months.
As her hands stroked through his hair and her lips parted with a throaty
sigh, he moved his hand down to begin stroking her inner thighs lightly, to
spread the wonderful moisture he could feel pooling there. The smell of her
increasing arousal filled him, a honey-like fragrance he had detected when
he had first begun to unclothe her. It surrounded him now, urging him on.
Already he was wondering what her response to the supposed loss of
virginity would entail. Would she be triumphant, tearful, declare the game to
be over and demand her money in an efficient, businesslike manner? The
very idea made him cringe.
Yet still she propelled him onwards. She was nothing if not skillful, for
her hands were urging him to remove the last of his clothing as if she had no
hesitation in making love with him. He hoped she was not going to tell him
he needed to hurry, that she had other clients waiting. The thought of her
with any other man than him set his teeth on edge.
He resisted the removal of all his clothes for a moment. He could not
recall the last time he had been completely naked with a woman. Some of
his seductions were so hurried he had barely had time to even take off his
coat. And one time not even that.
Now his trousers were down around his knees. With a last twitch he shed
them and then flung his evening pumps off eagerly, with his stockings
following a moment later. Naked as the day he was born, and trying to
capture a lost innocence and joy with a whore pretending to be a virgin...
This thought gave him pause. What on earth was wrong with him? All
this was an illusion. He needed to get a more secure grip on reality. It was
just a bodily function, like eating, drinking. In an hour or so she would be
gone, leaving him alone and as careworn as before, with his mother a few
doors down the hall, close to death if they couldnt find some way to help
her.
At this chilling thought Randall heaved himself away from her questing
embrace and reached for the decanter of Madeira he kept on a small side
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
45
table. He poured himself a glass and tossed it down the back of his throat,
then sloshed another measure into the glass and brought it and the decanter
over to the bedside table.
Isoldes blue eyes never left the huge, splendid form of the man she has
stripped bare. She couldnt believe what she had done. In most senses she
had no regrets. She had been told often enough by Howell that she was lucky
to have his offer of becoming his mistress. That he would be good to her.
That she had no chance in the marriage mart, so she might as well bow to the
inevitable and go the way of so many other impoverished gentlewomen.
She might well do, but she was not going to yield up the treasure of her
body to the likes of him. A decent man would have married her no matter
what. Except that she had seen his true colours, and wouldnt marry him if
he were the last man on earth.
Randall Avenel was certainly the kind of man worth risking everything
for. His lean, raw power was almost terrifying. Yet she sensed underneath it
a tentative quality. An uncertainty, a doubt that she could not quite put her
finger on.
He was a wounded soul, she sensed, from both without and within. A
man of mystery too, with that strange flicker of red and black which
wavered before her eyes when she looked at him.
Chaunceys aura was also black, from little she could read of him. It had
been black ever since she had known him. Her father had told Isolde her
engagement was for the good of the whole family, and she had been forced
to acquiesce.
She blinked and tried to drag herself back to the present, to the reality
staring her in the face. If she had not been so fatigued, distressed and in
turmoil, she would have done the sensible thing that any young woman in
her position would, and run like the wind.
The very fact that Randall was no longer kissing her senseless was
enough excuse for her to grab her clothes and retreat with as much dignity as
she could muster. It would not be much, but would preserve her virginity at
least.
Needless to say, her chances of securing the post as his mothers nurse
and companion were long gone. What on earth had she been thinking? And
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
46
was this not perhaps what Howell had intended all along, by sending her to
the house of a man who was so spectacularly handsome that there was no
doubt in her mind that he had to be the most accomplished rake in London.
If not the whole of Europe, she amended, if all that was said about him was
to be believed.
She gritted her teeth as she thought of Howell laughing at her. The story
would soon be making the rounds of every gentlemans club in the Ton in no
time, how the mighty Isolde Drake had been ruined so easily.
Isolde was about to swing her legs over the side of the bed when
Randalls next gesture arrested her. He pressed the glass of wine to her lips
as one would do with a lover.
It was such a tender thing to do, the sharing of the glass so intimate, that
when she had finished slaking her thirst she raised her lips to receive his kiss
once more in utter surrender.
He stroked his fingers down her cheek, through her hair to deepen the
contact, and pulled her up to stretch against his length. Then they were fully
pressed together from head to knee, bare flesh to bare flesh, and there was
no mistaking what was to happen next.
She knew all about men and women from her work at the womens
clinic. There was very little she had not had described to her or seen with her
own eyes. They treated male prostitutes as well in that neighbourhood, and
men who had no other choice for medical treatment. She had never imagined
her loss of virginity to be anything other than upon her wedding night with
her fiance.
Now she was here with a complete stranger. His massive manhood was
determined to fit into her, joining them as one flesh, as the matrimonial
service said. Except that they were not married. This was supposed to be
wrong, a sin. Randall Avenel was not a lawful wedded spouse. He was a
man who changed his bed partners the way most men changed their cravat.
If not more frequently, she thought, judging from his practiced kisses
evidently designed to enthrall her, bring her under his spell.
It still wasnt too late. She could try to leave him, explain. Not even
explain. Just grab her clothes and flee into the adjoining bathroom and lock
the door.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
47
But with the steady pressure against her belly and his hands cherishing
one breast and kneading her hip, all desire to halt his seduction vanished into
thin air. She wanted, nay needed to know. If anyone was going to initiate her
into loves mysteries, it should be this magnificent man.
Isolde found herself imitating his strokes, her palms travelling down over
the hard, muscular slope of his back, to his gently rounded smooth buttocks,
until he sucked in his breath and climbed over her into the bed.
He laid down beside her, and there was no longer any doubt in his mind
or body. He wanted to give in to the ultimate fantasy of two young lovers,
fresh and clean and innocent, just letting nature take its course. He simply
had to make love to this woman with no calculation, no thought of payment,
and no thought for any consequences on the morrow. Except that there were
always consequences, he reminded himself, running his hands along the
whole length of her from shoulder to thighs. Wouldnt it be wonderful if the
pleasure didnt always yield so much pain?
Pleasure. Raw and compelling. The blood sang in his veins as he let his
innate need for control slip and they kissed torridly, mouths wide open, wet
and sensuous. His hand slipped up to caress her tenderly once more, and he
murmured words of endearment against her fevered flesh, telling her how
very lovely she was, made for him and him alone. She grew almost
scaldingly hot. She heated up even further as he inserted one finger into her
tightness.
He had learned from experience that women came in all different shapes
and sizes. With some he had not been able to manage more than the smallest
portion of his huge size. With this woman he not only wanted to manage, he
needed to please her the way she was thrilling him. But it was not going to
be easy. Patience, he counselled himself. She would be more than worth the
wait.
He slid the bottom of his tongue right down her body until his mouth was
level with her exquisite thatch of auburn curls. She was certainly a natural
red head. Her lush pinkness and the honeyed fragrance of her arousal set him
to lapping against her like a cat with cream.
She gasped, twisting to and fro in an effort to halt the invasion, but he
cupped his huge hands underneath her ripe bottom to hold her in place.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
48
Steady, lass. Im rather large and you seem awfully tiny. It will make it
easier for you if youre nice and wet. I want you absolutely glistening with
ardour. I want you to say my name, Isolde.
His thumbs massage the creases which joined her thighs to her torso. She
understood the wetness he was urging her to was not simply that which his
moist mouth brought.
She could feel a hot tightening within her, and a warm rush, like a
monthly, but not in the least painful. It was more heated and lambent, almost
bubbling over as his hands, teeth and tongue continued their maddening
massage.
Moving one hand he began to rub her all over, making her slick, and
adding to her dampness with even more pressure in and out of her tender
flesh.
He marvelled at her incredible tightness. He had heard of high-class
Incognitas who could do all sorts of interesting things with their inner
muscles, including prevent men from entering them and thus driving them
even more wild with desire.
He wondered if she was doing this now, and rasped urgently, Easy.
Dont try to control this. Just relax, let it happen. I promise it will be good
for you too. I want to try to please you.
Oh, you do, so very much. Cant you feel it? Its like Im on fire. Like
Im flooding with sensation. But I dont know what to do. I mean, I want to
please you too. And Im not sure how were going to-- I mean, youre so
huge, she breathed in awe as she looked down at him.
He laughed in triumph. With a last swish of his clever tongue he rose
from her once more, took a sip of wine, and kissed her on the mouth. His
hand reached into the bottom drawer of the small bedside table and he tied
on a protector and applied a large handful of lubricating cream with
trembling fingers. She was a lovely woman, but the habits of a lifetime could
not be ignored, and even a clean-looking woman, as she was from all he had
tasted below, could still be rife with disease.
As he readied himself, Isolde knew she still had time, could still get
away. But the prospect of certain ruin was as nothing compared with the
urgency spiking through her. The swirling sensations below her waist were
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
49
budding and spreading outward, leaving all of her limbs nearly beyond her
control.
Randall was like a masterful puppeteer, pulling her arms and legs this
way and that, bending her to his will, but his desires were in perfect
harmony with her own. The more he touched her, the more she wanted to
travel with him down the enthralling path his caresses had revealed.
Desperate to have him in the bed once more, she stroked up his thighs
and reclined on the pillow. Please, she whispered. I need more of you.
All of you. I feel like Ill go mad if you dont kiss me like that again.
Her knees bent, her legs wide, she presented a most alluring picture, one
Randall could not resist. He got back in the bed beside her and let his mouth
rove over hers. He cradled her head in one broad hand and moved to tease
her secret valley with his fingers, until her pearly moistness lubricated not
only him but the sheep intestine condom. Even with its deadening effect he
could feel her incredible tightness.
Though he had no intention of winning the bet now, he would tell the
men he had never met another woman able to clamp her own inner muscles
so tightly. She was going to wring the pleasure from him in an instant, he
was sure. He held back once again to try to prolong the sizzling up and down
his spine just a bit longer. He rubbed up and down, round and round, at the
very edge of her entrance, until she clutched his hips urgently.
Just let it happen. You dont need to work so hard. Pompoir is lovely,
but I just want you to relax.
I cant stop the, the longing, she sighed, nuzzling his chin and throat.
His flesh surged anew. Playing the game to the last, he whispered against
her satiny hair, Im sorry. This is going to be difficult for you at first.
Isolde steeled herself, knowing full well that this was the part every
woman feared and dreaded. She tensed, and he pressed on to end his fantasy
at last. His hardness slipped into her a painful fraction at a time. She curled
her fingers into claws of suffering which dug into his back and bottom as she
pressed her hips upwards to meet the stabbing pain, though her instinct told
her to flinch away.
Now that things had gone this far and she was truly ruined, she decided
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
50
she might as well try to seek the pleasure she had heard could often be part
of the act of love.
He smothered her cry in his mouth as she curved her hips up to meet the
stroke. He began to withdraw, suddenly unsure, surprised and awed by what
he felt inside her. He, who thought he had experienced it all.
She was so hot, tight and lovely, he was not going to be able to last more
than another second. He wondered at the tense change in her act, from
willing virgin to agonised one. He knew some men liked to inflict pain; the
gentlemens clubs were full of unwilling virgins sacrificed for the novelty
of a man or men willing to pay the right price. But he didnt want hurt or
violence as part of his sexual exploits.
Im sorry, he murmured against her ear, taking one lobe into his mouth
to tease it with his teeth. It will be easier in a moment if you stop struggling
and tautening your muscles like that. Ease the clamping below. Dont try so
hard to please me.
I cant stop. Its, well, doing it all by itself, she said, her eyes glittering
with unconscious tears as her body tried to both expel and impel him.
But Isoldes mind knew what she wanted. Her nails dug into his back as
she tried to adjust herself to the formidable pressure which had burst through
her delicate tissue and now throbbed within. She felt sure there was more.
Lifting her hips up off the bed, she managed to get him to slide in even
further. And further.
He gasped and shuddered, and gasped again as she moved once more to
try to accept his tumultuous stroke. He was enormous, there was no doubt
about it. But each movement forward made it easier for her to take every
glorious inch of him. Having already exploded before he ever even got half
way inside her incredible core, he was stunned for a second, frozen in
ecstasy.
But Isoldes body was intent on its own pleasure, and she continued
move to her hips downward and up into him. She could feel an increased
dampness throughout her which made him slide in more easily, until a slow
lapping tendril of delight curled deeply within her belly.
She said his name for the first time, a desperate pant as her eyes flew
open. Randall!
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
51
He raised his head to look at her. He had already finished, was still
stunned with his unalloyed enjoyment of her. Her gasp of surprise hardened
him anew. When she looked at him and said his name again, he knew he was
even more lost than seconds before when he had exploded within her.
If he didnt know better, he would have said they were made for one
another, for really, they were the most perfect fit together. He rippled his
hips and could feel his rigidity pressing urgently in an attempt to get all the
way inside her at last.
He grasped her legs for a brief second to wrap them around his waist, and
then cupped her bottom hard. Take all of me, he begged, the whirlwind of
his need wafting through him once more as her sob of delight at his
continuing glide now became a sultry moan.
No sooner was he finally at the end of her, than he swung back almost all
the way out, only to begin the slow pressure of filling her tight pulsing
sheath all over again. The two kinds of friction had her shuddering against
his in a tell-tale rhythm which propelled him onwards towards both of their
peaks.
Randall, please!
She had no idea what she was begging for, but it was very close.
With a throaty laugh he plunged in to the end. He who had always
remained aloof, done nothing but remain in control of every bargain with
every woman he had ever bedded, threw all caution to the winds and gave
himself in a way he had never thought possible.
His mouth covered hers to stifle both their ardent and increasingly loud
and uncontrollable cries. Her hands were everywhere, driving him onwards.
Even after climaxing again, he drove her on to a second pinnacle of her
own. Her devouring kisses only broke off long enough for her to gasp, Oh,
thank you, thank you. That was so wonderful. Youre magnificent.
He could hardly believe his ears. It had been said to him before, but never
with such conviction and reverence. He moved his head to look at her, and
saw once again her marvelous eyes open to look at him in surprise, wonder
and joy. Again, he had encountered many pairs of eyes looking at him after
the deed had been done, but none had ever looked at him like that.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
52
Or if they ever had, he had not noticed.

Or if they ever had, it had not lasted long as he had washed himself
hastily, gathered his clothes, dressed with his back to them, and left.
He shivered with regret that it was all over at last. He had had her, and
was sure he was spent and Isolde was going to return to whatever bordello
she worked in. He sighed, and gave her one last sultry kiss, wanting to ask
her to stay, but fearful of being laughed at for even asking.
He was about to roll off her to head for the bathroom and then reach for
his money clip when she stroked her hands down both of his cheeks and
gazed deeply into his eyes. Thank you. Do you think I can do something
similar to delight you?
Her innocent inquiry quite unmanned him. With a murmured, You most
certainly do delight me, love, he settled her down in the bed once more,
gentling her tousled auburn hair back from her cheeks and brow, before
moving within her powerfully again until she saw stars.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
53
Chapter Five
The third time they made love, Randall found himself actually holding
back his raging passions, watching Isolde in awed fascination, the better to
enjoy her wild and uninhibited response.
She clung onto him fiercely, devouring him with kisses, stroking his
body behind and even now in front as she grew ever more bold in her
explorations. Her act was flawless, he had to give her thatjust the right
amount of sweet sauciness to counterfeit a virginal bride in love with, nay, in
total thrall to the virile husband who was fortunate enough to possess her.
He was about to continue the game with a few more lewd requests on
how to please him even more when he heard the sound of raised voices at
the end of the corridor.
He paused mid-stroke, leaving them both panting as though they had run
a mile, and raised his head to listen. A mans voice... Was there something
amiss with his mother?
He could hear Hopkins the butler protesting more and more vehemently.
Randalls gaze swivelled to the face of the girl.
He could see she was flushed and trembling, her face an etched mask of
passion as she kissed him hard. For a moment he returned the pressure with
open-mouthed delight.
Stay here, love. Dont go away. My servant seems to be in dire
distress.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
54
Oh, please, dont leave me. Oh, Lord, I think its happening again. She
quivered against him with passion, trembling from top to toe.
He watched every nuance of her expression, proud and so desirous
himself, making only the slightest movements as she began to sob desirously
anew.
But the voices were getting louder and louder. With a muttered oath he
roused himself from his enchantment, hating to leave Isolde beached on the
tide of her climax.
His body tugged away from hers in a lingering caress all of its own. He
looked in undisguised admiration at her rosy parted lips, lustrous eyes, ripe
breasts, tiny waist.
Blood-stained thighs, the spattered reddened sheets. Down at his
condom-clad member and thighs, liberally daubed with red. He frowned as
he stalked into the adjoining bathroom, removed the protector from his body
and threw it into the WC.
His heart lurched in his chest as though it were about to explode. Good
Lord, she has been dubbed the Eternal Virgin, but surely no tart, high class
or otherwise, would take the charade this far....
Randall opened his mouth to demand of her, What on earth is
I know shes here! I insist on seeing your master now! a voice
bellowed.
The bedroom door flew inwards, crashing into the plaster behind with
such violence that it flaked down onto the navy blue carpet like snow.
Isolde screamed and caught the coverlet up to her bosom, though not
before her fiance Chauncey Howell had glimpsed her stark naked in the bed.
The blood-stained sheets were also not fully concealed, and the sultry
smell of heated passion in the room indicated all too clearly what had been
going on.
Isolde was not ashamed. Howell had wanted to do this with her himself,
but she would never give in to him no matter what he offered her.
Randall was not ashamed, but rather livid to see his distant cousin
Chauncey Howell of all people in his room. He was nothing if not a hideous
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
55
reminder of all of the past events he had been struggling so hard against only
a few moments before. Howell had avidly pursued Randalls former fiancee
Clarissa all those years before, and Randall had avoided him ever since.
The latest on-dit proclaimed him an inveterate gambler with the lowest
tastes in Haymarket ware. Rumour also had it he was in damned low water,
despite availing himself of only the cheapest whores and confining his
gaming to cock fights and bear baiting.
Randall held with none of the blood sports his cousin participated in, in
bed or out. How Chauncey had ever been his quiet brother Francis friend
was beyond him
Randall did not even trouble to cover his bareness. His huge manhood
jutting upwards in front of him rendered him similar in appearance to a giant
Priapic statue.
Isolde could feel her whole body clench with desire as she looked at him,
even though the occasion was as grim as it could possibly be.
Well, Howell, what have you got to say for yourself? Cant you see
youre interrupting? he said in a menacing growl, almost looking forward
to the prospect of throwing him out on his ear.
Randall stared as a second interloper finally made his way down the
hallway with his butler Hopkins.
It was Howells best friend Parkins, a rather dim sort, but good-natured.
He lent Howell money and was easily impressionable, not quite so viceladen, but still not someone Randall would ever want to spend time with.
What on earth?
Im supposed to be your second, right, Chauncey? he asked.
Howell shot him a look which even the simple Parkins could not fail to
understand.
Why am I here? he roared. Because that, sir, is my fiancee, he said,
pointing to Isolde.
Her eyes widened, and then she knew. She could see it all in an instant,
and opened her mouth to warn Randall.
Randalls lapis eyes never altered. Lucky you to be engaged to such a
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
56
prodigiously talented whore. No wonder shes the talk of the Town. Ive
never had anyone quite like her. My best wishes for your future happiness.
Isolde gasped and pulled the coverlet up right over her ears, and began to
weep.
Howell roared like a bull and charged.
Hopkins and Parkins moved as a man to stop him.
Randall, still stark naked, looked as though the whole affair bored him in
the extreme. Except that as Isolde peeped out from behind the damask, she
could see him shoot her an accusing look.
She shook her head, dashing her tears away impatiently. Hes not my
fiance. He threw me over. Everyone knows hes been sniffing around Fanny
Clarence for her fortune. He wants me to be his mistress but I refused. He
told me to come here, no doubt planning all along that I would be
compromised in your company and he would be able to call you out. Please,
dont duel him. Ill just get my clothes and
Stay where you are, Miss, er
Drake, Hopkins supplied quietly.
An outraged snort burst from Howell. Didnt even bother to get your
name before he futtered you, eh? You miserable whore!
I would have been one if Id given in to you for money, a home, all the
other things you promised to do to help my poor family if and only if I gave
you my virginity, she hissed, her blue eyes darkening with ire.
Randall spoke through tight lips, disgusted at what he was hearing,
though not in the least surprised. Hopkins, please escort our er, guests out
of the house. Mr. Parkins, I shall have my second Matthew Dane call upon
you tomorrow to get this matter settled one way or the other.
"But make no mistake about it, Howell, Miss Drake shall never be yours.
Whether you choose to throw your life away as a result of this little charade
is entirely up to you. It shall be swords at dawn, and I shall kill you where
you stand.
Howell tossed his head arrogantly. Im not afraid of you. In any event,
its up to the lady to decide whats to be done about her lapse of honour, not
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
57
you. Isolde, come home with me at once. I shall return you to the safety of
your mother
No! Randall and Isolde both said at once.
Their gazes flew to each others in surprise.
Randall bowed to her. She could not help admiring how magnificent he
was as he stood completely poised like a piece of classical statuary.
Im not going anywhere with you, Mr. Howell. I never want to see you
again. I shall help my family without recourse to your distasteful
proposition.
And I have said the lady is here under my protection.
Lady, indeed! Oh, she is, all right. But do you really not know who she
is? Howell said with a smirk of triumph.
Randall raised his nose in the air. No, but it matters not
Viscount Linleys daughter.
Randall eyes rivetted on her face once more.
Is this true? he asked quietly. Are you really Isolde Drake? If she had
said she were the Devil himself he could not have been more stunned.
Isolde nodded. He was my father, God rest his soul.
He stared at her, his lapis eyes turning almost black with suppressed
passion. And your family fortunes failed before or after he died?
After.
I see, he said quietly, though his emotions were now in complete
turmoil.
He went over to get a navy silk robe from his wardrobe and put it on. He
turned to Howell once more and said in a dismissive tone, Do not make me
repeat myself. My second Matthew Dane will call upon you tomorrow
morning, sir. I bid you good night.
Im not leaving her
It appears you already did. He looked to Isolde for confirmation.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
58
She nodded. Please leave, Mr. Howell. Should we ever have the
misfortune to meet, please do me the courtesy of cutting me. Pretend we
never knew each other.
Youre going to pay for this, Isolde. No one treats me like
'ello, 'ello, anyone in here? a female voice called down the hall with an
unmistakable nasal twang which betokened a true Cockney.
The most frowsy dark-haired woman Randall had ever laid eyes on short
of the street corners outside Covent Garden now entered and perched one
hand on her hip.
Well, this is wot Oi call a rum do. I come 'ere to swive you, and find you
servicin' some other trollop!
Randall was not sure if the choking sound came from his throat or
Isoldes. Probably both, he decided.
Oi come all this way for nothin', Oi 'ave! Though I 'ave ter say, shes a
pretty l'il thing, and these two gents 'ere aint half bad. All roight, Ill get inta
bed with all of youse for only double more. Cant say fairer than that.
Isolde rolled her eyes heavenward and cringed even further under the
covers.
Howell licked his lips salaciously. Parkins gaped.
Randall burst out laughing, long and loud. Let me guess, he wheezed.
Tubby sent you?
Aye, that 'e did. Says my act is the best 'es ever seen.
Go back to the club and tell him to pay up. You can keep the money for
your trouble.
Thats right kind of you, but I really dont mind she said, taking two
steps forward.
No, really, thank you. I have my hands quite full enough as it is, he
said drily.
Ill never believe you go both ways, sir. And the girl looks like she
could use some help with all three of you. Though I 'ave ter say, these two
look fairly bent
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
59
She stared at Howell and Parkins, who both glared back.

Suddenly she stiffened. Hey, I know you, she said, pointing her finger
at Howell. Youre the one who damn near killed my mate Molly last
month. You filthy bastard
She swung her fist at him then, hitting him square in the mouth and
felling him like an ox.
Randall raised his brows. Well, Howell, if even a woman can best you
in a mill, youd definitely better rethink your intention to duel me on the
morrow.
But there was no reply, for the prostitute was uttering a string of
execrations against Howell which had even Randall blushing.
Isolde flinched every so often, indicating her familiarity with at least
some of the appalling words and phrases.
Randall had had quite enough of seeing the poor girl tormented, no
matter who she was.
Please, Hopkins, let them take this disgusting display outside. Im going
now to make sure my mother has not been distressed by this appalling
caterwauling. You, Miss Drake, please put this on when theyve gone, and
join me in the drawing room downstairs when you feel up to it.
He draped a rich burgundy velvet dressing gown over her trembling
shoulders with unsteady fingers, his mind swirling with all he had learned,
but forcing himself to appear in control of the situation.
He waited with folded arms as the woman beat Howell down the hall.
Really, it was better than any play hed ever seen in the theatre, except that
this farce was his real life. And what had happened was certainly no joke for
any of them, but a night that was bound to have consequences one way or
the other
His shocked butler Hopkins managed to grab Parkins and wrestled him
from the room, while the woman harried Howell right out into the street by
the sounds of it as the noise gradually receded.
Randall headed down the hall quickly. He entered his mothers room and
saw her eyes were open.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
60
I want to see her, she said.

It was the most lucid sentence she had uttered in weeks. For a moment
Randall momentarily taken aback. See whom, Mother? he asked at last.
Theres a girl here. Lovely red hair.
Oh, no, theres no one, Mother, he lied. Pray calm yourself.
I know theres a woman here. I heard voices, Randall.
It was just one of the maids talking loudly.
Bring her to me.
But Mother
Bring her, Randall, now.
Randall sighed. He knew that tone. He had been confronting it every day
since Father had died. No. Now. Like a small, petulant child. Very well. Ill
be back in a moment.
He went down the hall and saw Isolde emerging from the bathroom, clad
in the dressing gown and already stooping to pick up her clothes. His heart
lurched at the sight of her preparing to leave.
On the other hand, he had every reason not to wish to see her again as
long as they both lived.
His voice remained neutral as he said, My mother wants to see you at
once. Please come.
She looked astonished for a moment, but only drew the robe tightly
around her throat and pulled the heavy fall of hair back from her face and
looped it around itself into a coil at the nape of her neck.
He indicated for her to follow him. She soon found herself in a pleasant
set of chambers decorated in forest green and gold. The woman in the bed
had to be about fifty, but she looked seventy, weary and careworn.
She was undoubtedly Randalls mother. She was an exceptionally
handsome woman with the same unusual eyes. It was evident she had once
been robust, but now the skin hung from her throat and face in folds like the
wattles of a turkey.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
61
The Earl tells me you wish to see me, Lady Hazelmere. How can I be of
help?
You came to see me, did you not?
Well, yes, both of you, she said quietly. I answered your sons
advertisement for a paid companion to nurse a family member.
Randall started in shock. Paid companion...
I believe you would like someone to help you. Madame?
Yes, indeed, child. You have such lovely hair. I would have adored
having a daughter so lovely as you. Having a daughter-in-law will be the
next best thing.
I do hope you will have one soon, Isolde said politely. The Earl is a
most remarkable man, and will certainly not lack for appropriate
candidates.
Indeed, she said with a smile. But not everyone can tame him, and he
has a very deep sadness which must be lifted from him.
Randall felt himself blushing again. Twice in one nighthe who had
thought him to be impervious to more delicate feelings. Now, Mother, you
dont want to overtax your strength.
Actually, I was going to ask this lovely girl to sit with me for a time, and
if I could have some beef broth, dear? Or perhaps some bread and cheese?
Isolde looked up at Randall. He nodded with alacrity, delighted that for
once his mother did not have to be begged to take sustenance.
He spoke in a low tone to the little maid who had been sitting with her,
giving the order for the food to be brought.
Now, what is your name? Tell me all about your family.
Isolde Drake, Viscount Linleys daughter, she said with some
trepidation, recalling Randalls reaction when he had heard the name.
But his mother simply smiled and said, A most excellent man, soundly
principled even if we did not always agreed with his zeal. I take it you share
his ideals?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
62
Yes, Madam, Im afraid we are all Radicals in our family.

Randall managed to keep his face expressionless. After all, Michael had
been one too...
Tell me about them.
I am the eldest at nearly twenty. Then there is my brother, Jeremy, and
my two young sisters Rebecca and Susan. They are sixteen, twelve and nine
respectively. We lost Father about three months ago, and things have been
cucumberish with us ever since. We cant find any of his papers pertaining
to the estate, and so cannot touch any part of it or his portfolio. We are now
forced to leave our home until matters can be settled satisfactorily.
I hope to secure a post with a stipend, and one of my acquaintances has
been kind enough to offer a small cottage on her estate for our family to live
in rent-free in exchange for maintaining it and the garden. Ive been trained
as a nurse by my cousin Dr. Herriot over at the womens clinic in Bethnal
Green, so I thought I might suit for the post here.
Bethnal Green? I know it. I subscribe. A friend of mine founded it,
Blake Sanderson, one of the so-called Rakehells. Havent seen him for
years, not since before the war, Randall said musingly.
He looked at her more carefully. You trained there, you say? But
youre a gentlewoman. He leaned against the mirrored wardrobe, finally
starting to relax now that everything was beginning to make more sense.
She nodded and said proudly, I started as a volunteer a couple of years
ago, my first Season. Ive been there ever since, until we had to close up the
London house just after Father died. I had the gift of healing, they all said,
and I enjoyed the work. They cant afford to hire anyone else full time at the
moment, not until they get more subscriptions. Even if they could, the
remuneration would be quite small. Too small if Im to help my family.
So you came ahead of the appointments tomorrow to, er, what, exactly?
Win me over with your charms? he drawled, sweeping her body intimately
with his lapis gaze.
Well, yes and no, she admitted, blushing red as a peony. I hoped I
might speak with you, find out if I could indeed help, but also if you suited
me. Im not so naive as to believe that every employer is going to be a
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
63
congenial one, and did not want to end up out of the frying pan and into the
fire.
Well, we could not be more delighted that youre here, could we,
Randall? the older woman said with a wan smile.
No, indeed, Mother, he said with a long look which she could not fail
to interpret. Ive never been more delighted in my life.
She felt the tears springing to her eyes uncontrollably. Her last vestige of
dignity was spared her as the maid arrived with the beef broth.
Would you help me, Isolde? Lady Hazelmere asked. I fear my hands
are not quite as steady as they used to be.
Yes, of course, she said with a smile.
She looked up at Randalls composed features again. Once more he gave
her permission to proceed.
She fed her the soup and chatted about books, music, and so on, airing
her likes openly so she would not be accused of attempting to curry further
favour. But the truth was their tastes were all remarkably similar, and
Randall saw his mother acting coherent and even animated with the lovely
young woman for the first time since his father had died.
She ate all the soup, some bread and cheese, and asked for her pillow
slips to be changed. She also requested that her temples be bathed with
rosewater to help soothe her to sleep.
If the maid can get my valise from downstairs, I have a few
medicaments which would be efficacious. I believe you are suffering from
fearsome headaches which make you nauseous and almost unable to bear
light? Isolde inquired.
Thats right. She has been, Randall said, nodding.
And how much opiates have the doctors been forcing down her?
Too much, to my way of thinking.
Will you trust me with my concoction of wild lettuce and valerian?
I dont see why not, if its not addictive, Randall agreed, his eyes never
once leaving her lovely face, impressed despite his unease over the daughter
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
64
of his father's worst enemy being in his house and offering help of all things.
No, its not addictive, I assure you.
"Very well, please bring it."
When the valise arrived, he looked at it almost as though she had brought
a snake into the house. She placed it on the table in the centre of the room,
and began to take everything out of it to show that she had nothing to hide.
And heres the advertisement, with Mr. Howells written suggestion that
this would be a good situation for me. Here is your reply, inviting me to
come at four oclock tomorrow. Some changes of linen, and my medicines
and two of my books.
He looked through the books with interest whilst she tended to his
mother, but he also observed Isolde closely. She really was a lovely thing,
looking as regal as a queen in his burgundy velvet dressing gown, which
trailed along behind her at least a foot.
With the neck open in a vee he could see her ample cleavage, and as she
moved, the gentle sway of her lean but shapely hips. He longed to take down
her hair once more and have it flow down her back almost pass her buttocks
in glorious disarray.
She resembled a Renaissance Madonna with her pale, ethereal beauty,
with hints of roses in her lips and cheeks. A rose without thorns, he decided.
But no. She had most certainly stood up to that bastard Howell when he
come in here. How on earth was this lovely sprite engaged to a man so
debauched? And what on earth was Randall going to do about it now?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
65
Chapter Six
Once Isolde had given her some of her herbal remedies, and his mother
had finally settled down for the night, looking a great deal more contented
than she had since his father had died, Randall helped Isolde re-gather her
things into her valise.
Ill sleep now, dear boy. You two go to bed. Ill see you in the
morning, his mother said.
Very good. Sleep well. He kissed her hand and then her brow.
She stroked his cheek as she had done as a child, and kissed him back.
He stiffened for a moment before leaning into the kiss.
Isolde could see the movement, and once again got a swirl of images as
powerful as a body blow. She tried to push them to the back of her mind.
She reminded herself that she was not here to redeem the son, but help the
mother.
On the other hand, to restore his mother to him, and bring her healing
gifts into the house might actually be a way to help him as well.
She doubted he would even want to go near her, though, after everything
that had happened. What on earth had she been thinking? He might well be
the most handsome man this side of Christendom, but she had been there to
secure a job as a nurse, not a trollop.
One touch, one kiss, had been more than enough to cast all caution aside.
She had had the chance to escape. More than enough chances. He did not
look like a violent man, one who would have pressed on even had she said
no. She had allowed things to follow to their natural conclusion.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
66
And what a conclusion it had been, she thought, still feeling the imprint
of him deeply within her body. There was a curious heaviness in her limbs.
She could still feel herself more than aroused, her nipples, the sensitive skin
of her belly all quivering every time she felt his remarkable eyes upon her.
She wanted him so badly she could almost taste him.
She knew she must look a frightbetween being tumbled and being tired
and emotionally overwrought after the events with Howell, she felt as
though she would simply drop where she stood.
She needed to get dressed and go. The sooner the better. She estimated
she had just enough money for a room at one of the coaching inns if she did
not have anything to eat tonight or on the morrow. She would head home in
the morning, and there would be an end to it.
She looked over and saw Randalls mother was now sound asleep. A
warm hand on her elbow caused her to start. She glanced up at the huge man
towering over her with whom an hour or so ago she had been entwined in
bed.
This vast man in a silk dressing gown was even more alluring than the
one in evening garb, for every movement of the fabric as he now walked her
out into the corridor and down the hall revealed his incredible tumescence
under the silk, and tantalising peeps of his warm golden flesh. Desire
streaked through her again just looking at him.
He led her back to his room gently. She grabbed the bundle of clothes off
the bed and clutched them to her bosom. Ill just use your bathing chamber
for a moment, if I may, and be out of your way in an instant.
Nay, Isolde, youre not going anywhere until weve talked. We cannot
talk until youre a bit more composed and rested, he said softly, taking the
bundle from her and draping the things over the back of the chair so they
would not get any more crumpled.
Im going to run a bath for you, and change these sheets. And Im going
to order you some food and a hot drink.
Oh, no, really, I cant put you to so much trouble
He laughed derisively. Trouble? After everything thats happened this
evening, you can say that to me?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
67
She turned her face away so he would not see her tears.
But he grasped her chin in his elegant, hard fingers and forced her to look
at him.
One tear trickled down her cheek. He bent his head and kissed it away.
He wondered at his own gentleness even as he did so.
Come, sweetest, dont cry. Bath and food and bed. Things will look
much better in the morning, when were both thinking more clearly and a
course of action can be decided upon sensibly. Im not going to cast you out
on the street if thats what you fear. Im most grateful for all you did for my
mother. Ive done my best, God knows, but perhaps I just lack the feminine
touch.
Or perhaps youre too close to her illness, she said, trying to dry her
tears with the back of one hand. You love her very much. It can cloud a
persons judgment to see them so ill.
She leaned into his strong and oh so masculine body, though she told
herself she ought to keep her distance. But then, they already knew each
other in the Biblical sense. What was the harm in learning more about him as
a human being?
Just so, he said. But come, bath first. I shall run it for you. Soak as
long as you like. I shall see if I cant find a few little luxuries to pamper
you.
Oh, I dont need...
He caressed her petal soft cheeks with both his thumbs. After what has
happened to you tonight, you deserve every consideration. Im not such a
brute as you think that I can ignore the treasure I took from you.
She blew out a shaky breath. Aye, but you most certainly bestowed one
upon me as well. Thank you.
He stared at her, completely at a loss. No hysterics, shame,
embarrassment? Come, the bath awaits, he said gruffly, not sure of how to
deal with the tenderness he felt welling up so powerfully inside him.
She showed no shame as she removed the robe in front of him. Well,
there was no point, now was there? He had seen every part of her already,
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
68
and it was foolish to be missish, not when she was a fallen woman.
She pushed that thought to the back of her mind. She winced a bit as she
sat carelessly on the hard porcelain of the tub. On the whole she had no
cause for complaint. He had been huge, but it had got easier once she had
got over her trepidation, and relaxed into his rhythm as he had suggested.
Then things had just soared
She lay back and closed her eyes, feeling surrounded by Randall even
though he never laid a finger on her.
Once Randall had Isolde safely in the filling tub he went to his mothers
room and found some fine lavender soap and some epsom salts to soothe
soreness.
Returning to the bathroom, he gave them to Isolde, and then rang for the
servant for wine and hot food for them both.
While he waited, he removed the blood-stained sheets from the bed, and
fetched a new set from the linen cupboard down the hall. He had learned
how to make a bed and perform a hundred other little chores since his
mother had fallen ill. He shuddered to think how selfish he had been before,
taking all of his comforts for granted, before he had been forced to deal with
real life like an adult at last.
When he had remade the bed and folded away the blood-flecked sheet
into the bottom drawer, gazing at it in confused awe, curiously at a loss as to
what to do with it, he returned to the bathroom, and said, Feeling better?
Mmm, very sleepy now.
The food will be here in a moment. Here, Ill scrub your back while
youre there, he offered, picking up a sponge.
Lovely. My sisters do it for me when theyre around, but they do splash
and make a mess.
Youre very fortunate. They sound like a pleasant family, he said
almost wistfully.
They are. My brother is going through the boasting and swaggering
phase at the minute. You know, he wants to be a man but is still such a little
boy in many ways. But then were all capable of childlike joy no matter
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
69
what our age. She gave him a small smile which had his heart turning
somersaults in his chest.
Do you really think so? he asked quietly.
Yes, all of us. Especially when people fall in love, of course. But that
capacity for uncomplicated joy is within us all.
His gaze rested upon her thoughtfully. He couldnt recall the last time he
had felt a lightness of heart. Except now, he thought, looking at her fiery hair
and her long swan-like neck, the tops of her luxurious breasts bobbing even
higher than usual due to the buoyancy of the water. She was a vision, and
she was here with him. What about a bit more joy?
He put down the sponge and began to work on her back and shoulders
with his bare hands. She leaned into them and sighed.
Feeling better?
Very fine. I didnt feel too badly before, though.
Still, you must be a bit sore and upset.
Sore, a twinge or two. But you were a most considerate lover. She
reached behind to take one of his hands, and squeezed it gently. I am tired
though, having travelled up from Surrey on the mail coach.
A swirl of emotions in his breast had him gaping at her. Her warmth, her
tenderness. Yet the other, more sensible and worldly half of him told him
that she was a snake in the grass, that she had been part of a plot to... what?
He had a great number of suspicions, but only time would tell if he were
right. He wanted to be harsh and angry with her, declare her a deceitful
bitch, her fathers daughter, and fling her out in disgrace.
The other part of him, his manly part, he had to admit, wanted her to stay,
find out more about her.
She looked up at him now, her cornflower blue eyes gentle. Im glad
you used a protector. At least you wont have to worry very much about an
unwanted child from my foolishness.
How did you
The clinic, remember? Dr. Herriot
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
70
Then he should have taught you how dangerous men can be! he
snapped.
Ive heard, from all the prostitutes we have to treat. But women can be
equally so if they set their mind to something. And they do have the power
of refusal if a man importunes them, though they should of course be careful
in the first place.
A power you didnt exercise. Nor any caution! Why on earth
She did not flinch away from his gaze. It wasnt for the job, believe me.
Im nineteen. Ive been engaged to Howell from the time I was ten. I've
never had a beau, nor any freedom. No one ever even flirted with me,
though that I think was as much about my own character as about being
viewed as Howells possession.
"Sharing your bed was me acting upon my own inclination for once in
my life, something for myself, a choice freely and willingly made. I might
well end up a rich mans mistress because that was all I was suited to, but if
I was to give myself to anyone, I wanted it to be someone I could like and
admire.
Randall's brows knit. But you met me for all of ten minutes. How could
you
She shrugged one shoulder and leaned back into his warm, soapy hands.
When I came here to help in response to the advertisement, I expected you
to be the older earl. When I saw who you were, I knew a great number of
things about you from your correspondence, from the wording about the
post. Some common gossip about you. Not all of it bad. Those things have
only been confirmed since Ive met you. And, well, I see things, she
confessed, though she knew to most people it sounded like absurd,
superstitious nonsense.
He shifted around to look at her face and stared for a moment. What do
you mean?
I see things about people, I mean. General impressions. My
grandmother was Irish, you see, and believed in the gift of the second sight. I
lost it when Papa died, but there was something about you. She shrugged,
trying to dismiss the topic and relieve the uneasy prickling shivering her
back despite the warmth of the bath.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
71
Utter rubbish.
Are you so sure? she asked gently, her gaze never once leaving his
face.
Of course I am! he said gruffly, but all the same he asked, What did
you see?
She hesitated. It had all been so horrible, she wanted to be wrong.
Tell me. What did you see? he insisted.
She took a deep breath, trying to hold back her shivering. A vision of a
lovely raven-haired youth, a sandy-haired young man, a young woman with
hair like spun flax and eyes like ice. Then a horse, screams, and blackness. I
could hear the scream of the horse as it went over the embankment and...
He had flung himself off his knees and was already striding out the door
and toward the decanter of wine he had left by the bedside. He downed one
glassful in a single gulp and poured another, drinking it more slowly to
steady his hammering heart.
How did she know? Someone must have told her. Second sight my
foot, he muttered. Was that what this was about? Blackmail? Bloody
Howell must have....
Randall was so furious and shaken he would not have gone back into the
bathroom had it not been for the fact that he too needed a wash. He returned
several moments later, and avoided looking at her.
She said in an abject tone, Im very sorry. I didnt mean to upset you. It
was obviously something very personal and I dont want to pry.
Theres nothing to pry into. Youre wrong. Theres nothing in my past
like that! he insisted, though his hands were still shaking.
Very good, she said, glad she had not told him about the red and black
aura which surrounded him. Whatever he had done weighed heavily on his
conscience.
But you need to ask yourself one question, Randall. Did you really do
something so terrible that you dont think you deserve to ever be loved?
He clutched the lapels of the silk dressing gown together and shuddered.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
72
Lord in Heaven, how could she possibly know...

He hardly dared admit it to himself, that his raking was all a punishment
rather than a pleasure. To prove to himself how foul and depraved he was.
Yet he had still had rigid rules. He had broken the greatest of them
tonight when he had taken her to bed. For he had sworn after that first girl
had lied to him that he would never ever have anything to do with virgins,
dash their hopes, use them for one night and leave them ruined, hurt,
confused.
Except as she rose from the tub like a Venus, dried herself with the most
unself-conscious ease in the world, and put on his velvet dressing gown once
more, he thought she looked anything but ruined or cowed.
He watched her, enthralled, as she walked past him and out into his
chamber where the butler was laying out the food, and helped him with the
tea tray.
No, most certainly not cowed. If anything, she looked as though she
belonged there.
Thank you so much, Hopkins. Im sorry for the dreadful scene before.
Mr. Howell is a most difficult man at times.
Thats quite all right, Miss. Not your fault at all. Will there be anything
else?
She looked at the repast and smiled. No, indeed, I think we have
everything we could wish for. Thank you.
Hopkins left as silently as he had come, and she shut the door at last.
She brought his glass of wine to the tub, and handed it to him. Then she
held up the sponge.
He eyed her mistrustfully for a moment longer, but finally nodded. No
one had done that to him since he was a lad and his brothers had come back
in from a day out in the open air and...
Now he realised the delights of allowing someone to touch him without
restrictions. Or was it just her magical hands? The sharing of the bath was so
intimate, he almost panicked. Why dont you go eat and get into bed. You
must be tired.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
73
No, Ill wait for you. She continued scrubbing him with her long strong
fingers. She squeezed the wet sponge down over his back. The rivulets were
like a caress all of their own, and he could feel himself hardening once more.
Done this often, have you? he asked, trying to keep the sarcasm from
his voice.
Not on too many men. My brother, though hes a bit more shy now he is
older. We do get some at the clinic who cant struggle any further for help.
Many dead people, of course.
He gaped and felt his spine go rigid. When he could find his tongue again
he said, Im shocked that your father would permit
She gave a slight shrug. He and Mama never asked, and I never offered
the information.
Go eat and get into bed, he insisted, resenting the cornered feeling
shed produced with all of her nonsense about the second sight, and his
suspicions that she was involved in some sort of plot against his family.
She sensed the tension in his shoulders and tried to apologise again. Im
sorry Ive annoyed and upset you. It was never my intention. Ill gather my
things and leave
He shot her an irritated look and snatched one wrist. Youre staying here
with me tonight and every night until Im sure no child has resulted from our
liaison, he gritted out. And I still havent decided what to do about
Howell. I personally think I should just kill him and rid the world of one
large odious worm.
Observing her reaction, she was perfectly calm, indifferent even to the
threat against the man he suspected of being in league with her to destroy
him.
She simply said, My, you really hate him, dont you.
Lets just say he has been a thorn in my side for many years. Now that
Im the Earl, I can get my revenge.
It must have been trouble over a woman, then. And you know hes a
gambler. Cheated you, did he? she asked calmly.
Aye, but now Ive bought his vowels.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
74
Light dawned in her eyes. That must be why he wants to duel you. If he
kills you, he neednt pay you back. I had no idea, honestly. Im not even sure
how he knew I came a night early. He must have called at the house and
found me gone, and hurried up here to Town. But why would he need a
second if he didnt even know he was going to fight a duel?
Randall nodded. Ah, you noticed that too? Parkins always was a twit.
No, my dear, I think Howell well and truly schemed against us both. The
only thing he didnt count on was not getting to you in time before I, er, had
you, he said with an uncharacteristic blush, his concern over her being there
to blackmail him fading fast.
Lets try the word enjoyed? she said softly. If its true, of course.
His tone and hard blue eyes softened considerably. I try to be an honest
man wherever possible. It was no lie I told, Isolde. Ive never met anyone
like you. Enjoyed is a pathetically weak word to describe what I felt.
Still, I ought to be pretty offended at all the things you said, she
sniffed.
No, you dont understand. It was supposed to have been a bet at the
club.
Now it was her turn to leap away from him as though scalded. She
flattened her back against the tiled wall, and clung onto the heated towel rail
for support. You mean Howell told everyone, and you went along with
No, no, you misunderstand. Please, dont cry, he begged, standing up
in the tub to try to reach her.
But she was already out the door and grasping her gown.
He dragged a towel off the rail with a groan and flung it around his
dripping loins.
Please, Isolde, you dont understand, he said desperately.
I know when Ive been made a fool of!" she fired back tearfully. "A
laughingstock in front of the whole town--
No, lass, not a fool. Im talking about the blowsy woman who came
after Howell and Parkins arrived. She was part of the bet. She was supposed
to be an expert courtesan, able to feign being a virgin, to fulfill a male
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
75
fantasy of deflowering something young and innocent. I bet my friend

Tubby ten guineas I could detect the fraud. I never even wanted to bed her.
Ive had so much on my mind recently with my mother being ill, it was
really the last thing on my list of things to do.
"I was just going to find a tell-tale clue to give away her act, and send her
back to the club. You heard what I said to her! I told her to go back to Tubby
to collect the payment and keep it herself. Well, you saw her. A less likely
virgin never lived. How anyone could be duped by that I have no idea. He
shook his head.
So thats why you.... With me? It was just a wager? she said, stunned.
He fixed her with a gimlet stare. Yes and no. I expected a woman, an
available one, and made my move. You didn't repulse my advances, for the
reasons you've already said. I was trying to spot the fraudulent virgin, and
found a real one. I give you my word, I dont usually ravish every woman
who walks through my front door, he said brusquely. What kind of man do
you take me for?
One with a fearsome reputation, now that I know its you who are the
Earl and not your father, she said, staring at him over the edge of the
chemise she was tugging back on.
And like all reputations, based upon surface appearance, and a
combination of lies and half-truths.
Youre trying to tell me you were the virgin? she asked sarcastically.
He nodded and sighed. Yes, in some senses. It was no lie I told you. Ive
never experienced with anyone what weve shared together. Im not sure
what to do about it, he admitted. Or about any of this. Theres much to
consider, for both of us. All I know is I dont want to fight with you,
sweetheart, and I dont want you to leave.
He slid the gown from her now more relaxed fingers and placed it back
on the chair. Please, Isolde, sit and eat. And if youre willing, please let me
share the bed with you this night. I promise not to press my advances in
deference to your delicate state. But, well, I would like to know what its
like to He blushed again, his eyes darkening.
To know what? Im a virgin. Was. I cant thrill you like that ladybird
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
76
No, you did much more for me than someone like that ever could! he
said quickly, with such vehemence she decided he had no reason to lie.
But I really meant, I wanted to um, sleep with someone, er, all night. In
a warm but not passionate way. Affectionately, he said, struggling for the
words.
She stared up at him, and could see the effort it cost him to make the
request. She had not failed to catch his wary looks. It was evident he did not
trust her one bit.
And she did not blame him. Even knowing the truth, having witnessed
the events with her own two eyes, she was not quite sure she believed
everything that had happened herself.
But Randall was soul in pain. He was kind and gentle, devoted to his
mother even if he loathed himself. And he had said some most damning
things about Howells sexual proclivities which indicated he had some
respect for women, and no brutality, even if he was a rake.
She raised her hand to caress his bare arm. Very well, Ill stay. As you
say, we can talk in the morning. For now, I think you must be hungry.
He nodded, relieved. Sure she was not going to leave, he went to finish
drying himself and retrieved his silk robe, whilst she put the burgundy velvet
robe back on, then poured tea and started to make them both some
sandwiches.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
77
Chapter Seven
In a fit of sudden light-heartedness despite the worrisome occurrences of

the last few hours, Isolde took a couple of the cushions off the chaise longue
and placed them on the floor. She took her plate and cup and sat down in
front of the roaring fire in the hearth.
Randall looked surprised, but went over to join her, stretching out his
long frame on the Turkey carpet, one elbow on a cushion like a sultan.
Mmm, delicious. Im suddenly ravenous, she said, licking her fingers.
I know exactly how you feel, he said, trying to swallow down the bite
he had taken past the sudden lump in his throat as he drank in her beauty.
He reached over and took her hand, and began to lick her fingers himself.
Her little caught breath and slight tension in her arm were enough to
remind him that he had promised....
But I havent, she thought wickedly, the colour of her eyes deepening to
the shade of the ocean. Though she was tired, she felt more alive than she
ever had in her life, and was still stimulated from what he had done to her
before they had been interrupted. The bath, and the sight of his glorious
maleness had only added to her already simmering arousal.
Since she was already a fallen woman, and would never see this man
after tomorrow, why didnt she simply enjoy all he had to offer? Experiment
with some of the things she had been so curious about? What she had heard
from other women, from the fallen ones she had worked with?
Randall had already said she was unforgettable. He probably said that to
every woman he had ever bedded. He had assayed her only for a bet. Well,
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
78
now she was going to challenge herself to give him one night he would
never forget.
She took his own hand and reciprocated, licking his fingers and suckling
one of them into her mouth. She was longing to taste his nipples once more,
his most fragrant skin.
She parted the silk robe and did just that, and now a great deal more, all
thoughts of food forgotten as a different hunger ached to be assuaged.
She stroked his chest, shoulders and abdomen in a massaging caress she
had learnt from one of Dr. Herriots acquaintances, Eswara Paignton, an
Indian healer she had met when she had first started working at the clinic.
Isolde's hands never stilled; her lips followed them, until she ran her
tongue lightly along his shaft and then closed her moistened lips over the
helmeted top, which she had been told was one of the places which men felt
maximum pleasure.
Randall squirmed in a feeble effort to get away, but she held him still by
gripping one leg and his shaft.
Isolde, no, you dont have to. Thats not
But you did it to me, she whispered against his pulsing flesh.
But youre a respectable
Ah, yes, but Im also a fallen woman now, arent I? I might as well live
up to everyones expectations.
He tried to grasp her arm. No, I dont want you to
She sucked him in powerfully, flattening her tongue and pretending to
drink as one working girl had suggested to another one day at the clinic
when they had been waiting their turn. She had never imagined ever doing
any of this herself, but she revelled in the power she now had.
Please, no, Isolde, Im begging you.
She lifted her head. You told me to relax. Now Im telling you. Since
Im in this muddle, I might as well make the most of it. At least let me
explore you, give you back the gift you gave me.
She ran her tongue teasingly over every inch of him, fascinated with the
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
79
different textures from velvet-soft to steel under satin. She was fascinated by
the downy soft pouch between his thighs, which she explored with her
tongue as well until he begged her to stop.
She adored the way he felt, looked. She knew she should have been
frightened. That this was not the sort of thing that respectable wives did to
their husbands.
But she had heard the working women discussing this as a way to really
excite a man, to get him off as quickly as possible to go onto the next
customer. In her case, she wanted to cherish him, see his explosive response.
But her own needs could not be denied forever.
He was still prostrate with passion, poised right on the edge of climax
when he felt her raise herself upwards onto his torso and glide onto him,
parting her robe to surround him in her secret cove flooded with desire. She
glided and rippled against him, and he gasped.
God in Heaven
Isolde?
Randall! she panted, her blue eyes glowing. She clung to him urgently,
her legs spread wide astride him, her hips surging down into the curve of his
own with desperate yearning.
Great, heaving shudders tore through Randall until Isoldes answering
sob and desperate clutching of his shoulders with her delicate nails quickly
told him she was with him every step of the way. Kiss for kiss and stroke for
stroke they gave, and received the most wondrous rapture. Randalls own
pleasure was as nothing compared to what he could do for the lovely girl
whom Chauncey had tried to ruin, but Fate had gifted him with.
Randall climaxed long and hard, in great shuddering spasms, completing
himself inside her without a thought of pulling out before it was too late. His
primitive need to possess her, make her his irrevocably, was not one he
could possibly admit to himself, he who had never considered having any
hope of a woman as lovely, gently-reared and intelligent as Isolde.
The desire to keep her always as his own, the woman who completed
him, made him whole, drove him on until he burst forth in his paroxysm of
passion and spilled his seed deeply inside her.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
80
Isolde, my love, he sobbed against her shoulder, as she took him yet
higher. A rainbow exploded in his head as he travelled to the end of it and
found a treasure more valuable than any he could have ever imagined. As he
spent himself inside her, for the first time since his brother Francis had died,
he knew absolute peace.
Randall! Isolde panted, stroking his face and back ardently, tears of joy
filling her eyes as he drove upwards with a final trust which rendered her
incapable of a single coherent thought.
Her breasts pressed against his chest so tightly, arms and legs clutching
so hard, it was as if she would pull him right into her completely and make
them one forever.
Which in a sense they were now, Randall reflected has he blinked and
roused himself to kiss her lingeringly on the mouth. Now that he had known
such radiant joy, how was he ever to let her go?
Randall sighed. The peace and joy wouldnt last. He cringed inwardly at
the tongue-lashing he was sure was about to come at any moment. But
instead of a stinging denunciation for his lack of decency after he had
promised not to take advantage of her, Isolde stroked his hair back from his
damp brow and said quietly, Im sorry. I can see my coming here has only
made things worse for you, not better. Ive been such a fool.
Through eyes heavy-lidded with passion, she could see the strange red
flickering again, and held him tenderly.
No, never that, he said fiercely, kissing her. Youre so beautiful,
Isolde. That can be my only excuse. I never intended to, well
A movement of his hips was enough to complete his sentence, and urgent
desire shot through her once more.
But now that I have, I want so much more," he confessed. "Need you.
Desire you so urgently I feel as though Im going to climax again at any
moment.
Her tiny intake of breath was enough to set him off once more. Feeling
his pulsing hot hardness burgeoning within her, her blue eyes flew open.
Dont blame yourself. I wanted to Oh, no, you dont have to, I mean,
surely we cant
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
81
He wove his fingers through her vibrant auburn tresses, cupping the back
of her head to receive his torrid kiss. It left her in no doubt of what he was
about to do again, for as his tongue slowly penetrated her mouth, he filled
her below with one deep inexorable thrust.
Only this time, instead of rhythmically moving against her sparking flesh,
he pressed into her more deeply, the large head of his penis swelling,
touching her womb with a sultry throb. She didnt know where her body
began and his ended as they became one.
One with a stranger, she thought with horrified alarm. And they had done
nothing to prevent conception, either of them. What of disease? She
suspected he was very careful, if their first encounter had been anything to
go by, but still...
Her momentary panic as he rolled her onto her back dissipated in the face
of the bliss he was conferring upon her, truly a present from the gods.
Isolde didnt want to flee from Randall in horror. She wanted to rush
headlong into his arms, toward the sensations only Randall could thrill her
with. She tried to move her hips as she had done before, but he untwined one
hand from her hair to cup her bottom and hold her steady.
He lifted his lips long enough to whisper, Easy, love. We have all the
time in the world. Theres no hurry. Dont move. This is your first night.
Any more friction and youre going to be very sore. I dont want you hurt.
Please, trust me. Let me love you tenderly.
She drew in a thready breath and placed her palms on his buttocks,
forcing her fingers to uncurl and stroke him, hold him to her. I cant stop
moving, Randall, Its so powerful. Her whole body quivered under his,
drawing him ever inwards.
I know, but try to he whispered again, but it was already too late.
Oh!
Her internal caress was already rippling so strongly, he pulled her hips
more tightly to his. The impassioned kiss he gave her arched her back even
further, driving him so deeply into her achingly needy core that they both
saw the seas part and the sky fall.
Never had there been a woman like her for Randall, and as he made love
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
82
to her achingly, he knew there never could be again. He might have

destroyed any chance at happiness he might have had with her. He had never
intended a single touch of the lovely young girl to be anything other than a
game, a bet. But every one of her caresses had been tender, like a balm to his
tormented soul. As Randall poured into her, his desperate kiss was a silent
plea for love, for help.
Isolde had never imagined anything like this could ever happen to her.
She had never thought anything like this could exist. But then she had never
imagined a man like Randall could ever exist, or if he did, that she would
ever meet him, become his lover.
She had no idea what demons were driving Randall onwards like a man
possessed. To all outward appearances he was a calm and poised man of the
world. But when she had looked into his dark lapis eyes just before they
climaxed, she had seen something terrifying. That darkness within he had
denied was there.
Was his fury directed at her? It was evident he did not trust her, thought
she might be in league with Howell. And there was a past political history
between their fathers she only knew the vaguest details of.
But both their fathers were dead now. And surely he would not be so
unreasonable to visit the sins of the father on the children?
No, he seemed more infuriated with himself. About her? The mistake he
had made and the potential consequences? She was not so sure. But she
didnt want to run the risk of finding out.
Yet at the same time, to leave Randall all alone now that shed seen her
odd visions so clearly was unthinkable. The only way to combat the
grimness within his heart was to give him what he had asked for. The
warmth and affection he evidently craved, judging from his request that she
stay with him all night so he could discover what it was like to sleep with
someone.
It would be no pain to hernothing but the most exquisite pleasure if
they dared to make love again. He was still a huge invasion of her delicate
body. His hips pinning her down made her lose all control, all feeling and
sensation except of him.
But he wanted to be careful of her, sensitive to her needs. She would be
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
83
his true, tender love for one night. And he would, with his magnificent
gentleness, be hers.
The flickering image passed through her mind again, red, bloody. Then it
was gone as suddenly as it had come. But it terrified her. Not for herself, but
for him. She cradled him against her and whispered, Its all right, Randall,
Im here. Ill help you. I wont leave you. Come, lets snuff the candles and
go to bed.
He glided out of her carefully and rose from the floor. He helped Isolde
up and scooped her into his arms, placing her carefully on the bed. She
moved to the center of the mattress and took off the burgundy velvet robe
that had twisted all around her waist, while he snuffed out the candles
around the room.
He got into the bed and lay stiffly for a moment beside her, before she
looped one arm around his neck and tugged his head down lightly to cradle
it against her bosom. He almost collapsed with relief and gratitude.
Every nerve in his body seemed to coil and writhe as she touched him,
loved him with her hands in long sweeping strokes. He nuzzled her nipples,
cresting them to fullness, while his hand roved down to nestle inside her
thrilling secret place.
Soon the gentle caresses were no longer enough for either of them, and
he raised his head to kiss her. She pulled her lips away just long enough to
whisper, Yes, please, Randall.
Their souls and bodies blending and merging a swirl of sensation, they
treasured one another gently, with none of the urgency of their previous
pairings. Both felt it was perfect, meant to be in some way. They were so
finely tuned to each others needs and desires that they finished together
blissfully. They lay for a time utterly spent in the warm circle of each others
embrace.
At last Randall managed to ease his heavy weight off her. He grasped her
convulsively and clung to her, pulling her tightly to his side so that she could
scarcely breathe. He too was still panting heavily from what they had just
shared, and his words came out ragged and hoarse.
I dont care what Howell says, how angry he is. I dont even care what
your family says. We need to be married, Isolde, as soon as possible.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
84
But we cant--
He silenced her by tracing her lips tenderly with his finger. Please,
Isolde. Trust me.
He knew he couldnt even begin to explain everything, but his intuition
was strong enough to feel that his prayers earlier that evening had in fact
been answered. I know all of this is a mull at the moment, with Howells
threats hanging over us. But whatever mistakes Ive made, I couldnt bear to
see you suffer because of me. I took that which can never be replaced. Even
now, Ive just lost all control with you. Spilled my seed. I couldnt even try
to avoid completing myself within you. Not once, several times. Even now
you could be with child.
She tried to sit up. But these are not good reasons to marry! We cant
possibly--
He moved down in the bed to face her, one tender hand on her cheek
forcing her to meet his gaze in the flickering firelight from the hearth. Her
hair limned in the light was like an exquisite halo. He knew then she was his
angel, sent to save him from the darkness.
Please, dearest. Please trust me. I know what Im saying as surely as I
know the sun will rise on the morrow. Whats happened here tonight is
strange, uncanny. It doesnt happen to me every day. Im not a virgin, I
admit it. Ive been a rake of the first order in London and on the Continent,
and have known more women than you can even imagine, he found himself
confessing.
But for one night, and one night only, nothing, nothing I have ever felt
or experienced has prepared me for you. I need you to save me, Isolde. Save
me from myself.
She struggled to sit up again and shook her head. Youre not making
any sense. Do you not understand? Im impoverished. I have nothing to offer
you. In fact Ive brought you nothing but trouble now that Howell is out
baying for your blood. How can I ever hope to save you?
Randall kissed her hard to silence her questions and her fears. There was
too much to explain, too much unsettled. He was not sure he trusted her
enough to tell her the whole truth. Not sure he could trust the tumultuous
emotions inside which he could hardly even begin to put into words. But he
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
85
knew what he wanted and needed right now, with Isolde. And he didnt need
the right words for that. His kiss altered subtly, becoming once again the
bone-melting sensual glide which set her senses afire.
Isolde dragged her lips away. We cant, Randall. Not again. Not
when
He soothed her hair back from her face, planting warm open-mouthed
kisses on her eyelids and cheeks. We can do as we like. Youre here with
me now. Youre mine now, dearest. I dont want to waste a second of this
first night together with difficult explanations, recriminations and anger. Not
when theres so much more to share. And some things which cant be
revealed right now. I havent got things clear in my mind, not since you first
touched me. But Im clear about wanting you desperately.
She shook her head, pushing at his rock-hard shoulders in a futile attempt
to distance herself from his questing body. But she moved to the middle of
the bed once more rather than climbing out of it.
This is still part of the fantasy, isnt it? The willing virgin, the first night
together as lovers. Married people, even. But you cant base such a huge
decision on the basis of nothing but your rampant lusts. Outside that door is
reality. Consequences. My fiance, who will gladly kill you. My family, who
will be shocked and demand all sorts of explanations. Not to mention the
past enmity between
Nothing will have to be explained, he murmured against her throat. If
you trust me, Ill make all of this right.
Everything has to be explained! I scarcely even know you, Randall!
He moved his hands over her flesh in the dark so compellingly she
gasped and found her legs spreading, her hips arching all of their own
accord.
He restrained a laugh of triumph as she melted under his touch. I think
you know me very well. Im certainly enjoying learning all about you. The
way you were with my mother, so kind and patient. The way you are with
me, direct and forthright. What you just did to me in front of the fire, your
hesitancy but eagerness to please me, even when by rights you should
actually have bashed me in the cullions for what I did to you tonight. Your
magnificent body-
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
86
Its not enough, Isolde said desperately, feeling cornered in the bed, yet
making no move away from him.
Randall was not keeping her there by compulsion. His hands on her
breast and the roseate whorl between her thighs were almost maddeningly
gentle. Somehow she simply could not get up to leave.
She could already feel herself flooding with yet more moisture, and that
rushing sensation which spread out from her centre to inundate all her limbs
was already perilously close.
This kind of joy doesnt come along every day, Isolde. Believe me. Ive
spent a lifetime searching for it. It can be all yours too, darling. All night,
every night, if youll only say yes.
His mouth curved over hers, sapping any further resistance she might
have attempted, any coherent arguments to get him to try to see reason and
not even consider them ever seeing each other again after the morrow. Her
limbs turned to rivers of mercury as the molten desire coursed through her.
Once again, he was bending her to his absolute will.
She flowed over him in turn, white hot and scorching through his veins.
She reached for Randalls potent force, eager again for that which filled her
with such delight, bold enough to grasp him firmly and stroke him with
urgent intent.
Their caresses mimicked each others as they lay back upon the pillows
and he kept in tempo with her hands. He stroked her inner thighs, allowing
his own legs to spread, trusting her to not hurt him.
Once again she revelled in the soft flesh, a startling contrast to the huge
hardness jutting into the tender curve of her hip and belly, fiercely
possessive in its need.
Its power and beauty filled her with longing, and all thoughts of holding
herself from him fled. His entire body was made for admiration and worship,
she thought as she reverently touched his face, neck and chest as well, loving
the feel of his warm flesh, rippling muscles.
He began to trail kisses down the slender column of her throat. I adore it
when you touch me like that, he rasped as she continued to fondle the
impressive globes.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
87
Im not hurting you? I know its a delicate place for a man.

You could never hurt me, dearest Isolde, except by leaving me.
She kissed him tenderly, so movingly that it took all of his willpower not
to roll her on her back and pound into her until they saw the heavens open
once more. Let her see her power, fulfill her own needs, he decided.
Randall didnt want Isolde to despise him forever as the man who had
taken her virginity in the course of a bet. He wanted her to love him forever
as the only man who could complete her life, make her whole as she seemed
to have done to him, nay his entire family since she had arrived.
Shocking though the idea was considering how long and hard he had
denied himself any such thoughts, he wanted to share his entire life, every
particle of his being, with this incredibly bright and radiant woman.
She shifted in the bed until once more she was atop him. This time she
had more control, only letting him slip slightly into her tightness, her short
sharp movements moistening his tip until it glided more easily. She let her
palms travel down his broad expanse of chest, his rippling abdomen, his lean
hips, his massive thighs which proclaimed him a magnificent horseman.
The image of the black horse flickered again, and was still. Fiery red and
gold sparks crackled all around them, and Randall let out his breath with a
groaned exclamation. God in Heaven, Isolde!
She was sure she would be split asunder as she jammed her hips down at
the same time his powerful answering thrust surged upwards.
His hands on her waist had plunged her downwards. She would have
fallen onto his chest in a mindless frenzy if he had not clasped her in his
huge hands. One hand crept up to caress her breasts in turn as she rode him
hard, his body underneath hers never still as the outpouring of his passion
went on and on.
She could hear her own impassioned pleadings, the blood singing in her
ears, her crying out his name. Just when she thought it was all over, he
moved one hand down to caress the tiny sweet bud at the top of her thighs,
and she began all over again.
No, Randall, we cant! she said in a panic, her eyes flying open as her
passion ran away with her yet again.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
88
Take what you need, Isolde. Im all yours. Anything you want. Every
inch of my flesh, every part of my soul is yours if youll have me.
If! Isolde clutched him fiercely, swinging herself up and down with her
hands on his chest, setting a breakneck pace he did not even try to check.
He watched in fascinated awe her body was silhouetted by the light from
the fireplace and the first rays of the full moon rising over the rooftops lit her
body. The blush of love flooded her from head to toe. The dew of
perspiration made her glow like a goddess. Her internal shudderings grew
more and more savage. He could feel his climax only a heartbeat away.
He watched her struggle to let herself go, to surrender utterly to the
madness inside, the madness they made together with even the simplest
touch. Randall clung on manfully to his last shred of sanity. Her body and
lips were begging him for release. She shimmered from head to toe,
squeezing him with such urgency he could already feel his seed being wrung
from him.
But Isolde struggled against him, not able to trust herself enough to give
in to the incredible power she was unleashing within them both.
Randall could stand her passionate pleadings no longer. He yanked a
pillow out from under his head, shoved it into the curve of her back and
rolled over, taking her with him, his hips thrusting until his pulsing head was
right up into her womb. His tongue plunged while his surging manhood in
her spread.
Her arched body sent her soaring and plummeting at last. She clasped
him to her heart with every ounce of her strength, her whole body and mind
revealed as she offered all of herself to him and his explosive need.
All their other orgasms were as nothing in the face of this tempestuous
onslaught. They exploded as one, the climax rushing through them both until
they could scarcely breathe. Finally they collapsed, satiated, wrapped tightly
in each others arms, and slept the sleep of the fully satiated at last.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
89
Chapter Eight
When she awakened several hours later, Isolde was disoriented at first.
Never had she felt so warm and safe and happy. Never had her sheets and
quilt been so comforting. Never had she slept in so late, she thought in
surprise, opening one eye to peer at the bright sunlight pouring in through
the window, bathing the entire room in a shower of multi-colored motes. It
reminded her of her childhood, when every new day had been a wondrous
adventure.
Adventure was an apt word, for the blue and gold room was most
certainly not her bedchamber back home. It was far too richly-appointed,
masculine. She stared at the fine bed hangings and mirrors all around the
room, and sniffed the heady scent of the woods mixed with a light hint of
lime.
She espied a lovely Stubbs painting of a black horse which made her
shudder, reminding her of the peculiar visions she had seen ever since last
evening. They had even haunted her dream. There were also a couple of
caricatures by Hogarth and a couple of small Rembrandts. Several
magnificent watercolours of a splendid estate. There were also small cameosized portraits, no doubt of family members. A small chased Bible in silver.
Dried flowers on the table, decanters, glasses.
Finally, there was the most enormous man still on top of her, buried deep
within her most secret core, hard as a rock and already moving within her.
The blood rush to her cheeks and she gasped and writhed under him.
Good Lord in Heaven. What had happened to her?
Drat that light. Im sorry I forgot to close the shutters. Ill get up in a
minute. Well, I'm already up, my love. He chuckled. Ill do it when weve
finished.
Randall moved his head sleepily to kiss her. His soft raven hair tickled
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
90
her cheek. The morning is said supposed to be a marvelous time for

enjoying one another. I fancy seeing all of you in the bright sunshine.
He moved deeply within her in the most alluring manner, until all words
of shame, reproach or regret flew right out of Isolde's mind. He was so
gentle, with whisper-soft kisses and strokes, the most tiny of movements
massaging her inwardly, she was sure she would weep. She was sore from
the nights exertions, but she was not going to let some mild discomfort
spoil the incredible joy Randall gave her.
She also sensed that to say no would be to send him scurrying away from
her wounded. She felt his need to be desired and wanted with no hesitation
and reservations.
Oh, she had hundreds of them, not least because she knew they had
already run the risk of her falling pregnant half a dozen times over. She
couldnt understand how he had thrown all caution to the winds when he
was evidently a practical man of the world who knew all about preventing
disease and conception.
Now as he explored her own body in the sunlight with just as much
avidity as she had shown with his, she was sure he was testing her, seeing if
she would flee. So she relaxed against the pillows, and let the sensations take
her where they would, to that again undiscovered paradise only Randall
Avenel had ever gifted her with.
In the warm rays streaming into the bedroom, she let him do everything
he wished, telling herself it was her gift to him, their last time together
before she had to go home to Surrey, try to explain, see what she could
salvage of her family life and reputation once Chauncey...
But her mind refused to go there, to spoil her delight. Or Randall's. He
was, if anything, even more avid than he had been the previous night.
He certainly did not lack for imagination or enthusiasm, even given how
much they had sated each other the night before. His middle and ring fingers
curling within her drove her hips upwards. He laughed in delight, before
laving both her breasts in turn with his sultry tongue.
Oh please, Randall, I cant bear any more.
It doesnt have to be rationed, sweetest, doled out in parcels like sweets.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
91
You can have as much as you like.

Its too much, too good, she panted.
Ive never known it to be like this, so I cant say. But if Im not hurting
you, wheres the harm? He frowned. Im not hurting you, Isolde, am I?
No, no, she hastened to reassure him. Its wonderful. Youre
wonderful. So generous and loving. But I want to please you
You do, so very much, he said. It was no lie he told. I cant tell you
what a thrilling thing this is for me, seeing you so desirous of me.
I cant help it. I want you so much. Cant you please come back up into
me and
I dont want you to be sore. We fit so well together. Its just so
addictive, I lose all reason. There are so many other ways to please you. I
want to find them all if youll let me, he murmured, running his other hand
over her stomach and pressing lightly, then with increasing pressure until
she could feel his hard fingers right up inside her and shivered and moaned.
Darling, can I touch all of you?
Yes, please. Whatever you want, Randall, only please hurry
He pressed another part deeply within her at the back of her body, and
she was panting and sobbing with need anew. He stroked it alternately with
the frontal spot he had found, and then began to circle the fingers
maddeningly right around her entrance as if memorising ever nuance and
curve. His thumb came up to glide along her rosy bud. She could feel with a
blush of shame that she had drenched his fingers.
Lovely. He rose up to look at her, his eyes aglow with pride. Like a
gorgeous pink tea rose bud, now becoming a red one and blossoming just for
me.
Oh, please stop, she groaned, throwing one wrist over her eyes. It
cant be nice to look at.
He pulled the arm away gently. His lapis eyes burned with passionate
intensity. Its as lovely as the rest of you. To view, and taste. Look what
youre doing to me, Isolde. His fierce arousal was straining towards her.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
92
Oh my.
His voice became a low purr. Would you like him, or my tongue?
A fit of boldness cause her to smile and reply, Both, darling. Tongue
first, please.
Gladly, pet. He grinned and darted down the bed, lifting one leg to loop
it over his neck. He savoured her as he had done the night before, except
with none of the impatience. She lost track of how many times she peaked
and fell back down to the constant state of buzzing excitement his lightest
touch evoke.
Combined with his incredible fingers, she was gasping and clutching his
hair and ears convulsively for what seemed an eternity until he finally lifted
his head and rasped, Are you ready for all of me now?
Oh yes, but, well, its even more huge, she said in awe. I dont know
if
Trust me, darling. I always want it to be wonderful for you.
He moved in carefully, all of his self-control being stretched to the limit.
As she had said, he was even more distended with desire. He forced half of
his mind to concentrate on going slowly, whilst the other half thought
mundane thoughts like breakfast, a bath, what to wear to make her find him
the most handsome man in the universe.
He opened his eyes to look at her, and focused on her mouth, the ruby
lips parted, moistly seeking his throat and chin. He ran his tongue along
them before sucking her bottom lip and nibbling. He tried to hold on as she
kissed him back urgently. Her hips were already bucking and writhing
beyond the control he was trying to exercise with his heavy hips and hands
pinning her still for the gentle gliding in and out.
Losing all control, he circled her powerfully and plunged, until wave
after wave of desire rolled through her, clamping down on him until he was
sure he had been drained as dry as the Sahara.
Isolde, oh, Isolde, please, he found himself begging, though he knew
neither of them had any control.
Im here, Randall. Let it all go. She kissed him then, and with a last
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
93
shuddering thrust he soared into the blazing heavens.

It was then he knew he loved her. And would never, ever let her go
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
94
Chapter Nine
When Isolde next awoke, the sun was much higher in the sky, and
Randall was sleeping like the dead next to her. He had awakened her once
more by rolling off her body and onto his back at last. She studied his
exquisite face and body in repose for a moment, and smiled. He was the
most spectacular man she had ever met, could ever possibly ever know. She
longed to kiss him back awake again, but that would be the height of folly.
She needed to leave, to get out of the townhouse now before things grew any
worse than they already were.
Which were considerably awful. She had been caught in flagrante delicto
by her former fiance. He would no doubt encumber her family estate with a
breach of promise suit unless he could be circumvented.
Howell had admitted himself he was angling for wealthy heiress Fanny
Clarence. She could slap him with a suit herself if her fathers lawyer would
take the case upon contingency. But none of that mattered in the face of the
threatened duel. She couldnt bear it if anything happened to Randall
because of her.
She crept out of the bed and darted into the bathroom with her pile of
clothes. She used the facilities hastily and once again bundled her unruly
auburn hair up onto the back of her neck. She yanked on her stockings and
fastened the side opening of her demure black gown once more.
She was about to put on her drawers, but she was so torridly damp, her
flesh still so distended with passion, she did not dare. Even the simple
swaying of the coach would be a heated enough reminder of all she had
shared with Randall without anything brushing against her sensitized
mound.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
95
She shoved on her shoes, and tiptoeing out of the bathroom, rammed her
knickers and chemise into her valise, picked it up, and slipped out of
Randalls chamber. Then she looked right and left, and began to hurry down
the mirror-lined corridor.
She'd go back to the coaching inn, take a couple of hours to get home,
and she would be safe. Well, nearly safe. Her family were supposed to be
heading to their new home in Somerset the first thing tomorrow morning.
What she was to do for a job, she had no idea, but something would turn up,
she was sure of it. The main thing was to get as far away from Chauncey and
Randall as possible.
Once she was gone from their lives, Howell and Randall would forget all
about her, she assumed with breathtaking naivete, unaware of the impact she
had had on both, the one for vindictive, the other for amatory reasons.
She crept down the corridor, and caught the eye of two maids bustling
about their business. They looked at her with undisguised curiosity and
enormous envy. She clutched her throat, ducked her head and moved on
silently, trying not to run in breakneck flight.
She reached the bottom of the stairs without meeting anyone else, but
was faced with several closed doors flanking either side of the impressive
gilt-decorated hall. Where was her cloak?
At the second door she tried, she met with success, but gave a little
scream as a tall presence loomed in the doorway behind her. She heaved a
sigh of relief when she saw it was only the butler.
Oh, its you, er
Hopkins, Miss.
Yes of course, Hopkins. You just gave me a start, that's all."
"I'm sorry, Miss," he said kindly, with no hint of judgment in his manner.
"Thank you for all your kindness last evening, Hopkins, she said,
flicking her outer garment around her shoulders and lifting her reticule and
valise once more.
Surely youre not leaving? the butler said in alarm, all attempts at
impassivity at an end.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
96
Of course. Ive made a dreadful mistake and wounded the Earl as a

result. Put him in an untenable and dangerous position. I never meant to
hurt him. I must leave for his own sake.
And what of your needs and welfare? He has ruined you. It will be the
talk of the Town, the butler dared to say quietly.
She blinked, but shook her head. It doesnt matter. I am not without
friends who will understand, sympathise. I cannot have him fight a duel, run
the risk of being killed, because of my foolishness.
If you leave, you will not be safe. That man Howell I know of old. He
will treat you most barbarously if you leave the Earls protection.
I must go. The Earl no doubt despises me and
Hopkins tried again almost desperately now. You helped his mother last
night. Helped her when no one else could. Even if he did despise you, which
I very much doubt, he needs you. We all need you.
She stared at him for a moment in utter confusion. Im sorry. Its very
kind of you to try to make me feel better about what happened. However, the
last thing the Earl needs is to have his name linked with the scandal of
fighting a duel over me. He could be killed.
Howell will tell everyone I was nothing more than a trollop. Your
master would be made the laughingstock of the Ton even if he did survive. If
he killed Howell he would have the law after him. I must go. I know we
were only with each other for one night, but I care too much about your
master to bring down fire upon his head.
Im not the kind of man who avoids trouble, my dear, came Randalls
deep voice from behind Hopkins.
He had found her missing from the bed, and was still tying the sash of the
silk robe he had flung on as he had fled in pursuit, praying he would not be
too late to stop her leaving.
She gasped and cursed her luck, and tried to skirt past both men to get out
the door.
Hopkins, tea and breakfast if you please. Im hungry as a hunter.
The butler left quickly, the relief in his expression unmistakable. Why on
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
97
earth had he been so insistent that she should stay.

And now it was too late. Randalls hand reached out to capture one wrist
gently before she could follow the butler. She felt cornered, trapped, her
body already betraying her at his mesmerising touch.
We need to talk. Or rather, I need to say some things to you, Isolde, and
you need to listen.
Please, I must go. I cant ruin your life any more than I have already,
she protested, trying to tug away.
He let go of her arm at once, but his broad body was already herding her
in the direction he wished to take her.
Ruined it? He shook his head. I have the feeling youre going to be
the making of me.
Striding along in his silk dressing gown, rumpled from their lovemaking,
he was the most handsome and breathtaking sight she had ever seen. He
ushered her into the snug parlor she had met him in the night before, and
closed the door.
Their gazes locked, and her valise and reticule dropped from her
suddenly nerveless fingers. He reached up to caress the sweep of her jaw,
before untying her cloak and whisking it from her shoulders.
Come sit, sweetheart, he urged huskily.
She moved toward the sofa. With a shake of his head he selected a large
armless chair and sat in it himself, pulling her along gently by the hands. As
she drew closer, he shoved her legs apart with his knees, and tugged her
skirts up to her waist.
So lovely, he breathed. Come to me, love. Let me come inside you.
Come with me to paradise again.
He moved to kiss her, and in an instant she was perched on his lap, his
silk velvet robe fanning out, her dress parted, his mouth on one rosy nipple.
She caressed the head of his manhood, hot and hard, straining for
completion within her once more.
My, oh my.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
98
Hes missed you. I missed you.

I missed you too, she admitted.
She kissed him, and he spread her on his lap, her legs up around his
waist. When he could not get enough friction by sitting upright in the chair,
he took hold of her waist and leaned her backwards onto his thighs. She felt
the blood rush to her head as she clung on to his shoulders, and she flamed
even hotter when he scooped her hips closer and thrust harder.
She reached out nerveless fingers to stroke his face. He sucked one finger
into his mouth and teased it with his tongue.
Please, let me up, Randall, Kiss me tenderly? she pleaded.
Gladly, dearest. Whatever you want, if only youll please stay with me.
Randall held her close to his chest, resting her head on his shoulder and
kissing her with a thoroughness which mirrored the ravishing experience
exploding between her thighs. He caressed her shoulder, trailing her gown
down to her elbows.
Then he was kissing her neck and breast with languid, sucking motions
which he could be certain were going to leave obvious marks all over her for
a couple of days. Marks of his possession, for he had determined she was his
now, and he was never going to let her go.
She surged over him, her feminine sweetness never still, until she wrung
from him the ultimate in pleasure and they groaned out their release for half
of London to hear.
He was holding her in his lap and kissing her ravenously, already
hardening again within her, when he heard a loud knocking at the outer
door.
A moment later, they heard Hopkins begin to protest that Randall was not
at home.
He looked at Isolde, who was well and truly glazed over by passion.
Darling, theres someone
He tried to lift her off his lap just in case his manservant did come in, but
the sight of her face arrested him. Never had he seen anyone so lovely. Her
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
99
rosy swollen lips, her bare shoulders, her breasts quivering for more
attention, her long legs peeping out from under her gown, here was a woman
made for love. Divine, gorgeous. So inestimably lovely he could feel himself
on the brink again, proud that he pleasured her so thoroughly, and eager to
do so once more.
He had envisaged falling in love a few times in the past. He had even
thought he loved Clarissa. But nothing in his feverish imagination had
prepared him for a woman like Isolde. Love had proven to be sweeter than
he had ever imagined, in more ways than one.
Suddenly young Mr. Drake, tall, gangly and with a shock of alarmingly
red hair, slammed into the room demanding to know what was going on in a
high-pitched voice which showed Randall that the young chap had only just
begun to attain full manhood.
Hopkins! For Heavens sake! Randall protested, covering Isolde
quickly and desisting in his lovemaking at last.
Im sorry, sir. I told him you were not available but he did insist--
Isolde at last had become aware of the intruder behind her, and leapt out
of Randalls lap amid a flurry of fabric and a flash of flesh. She cowered
behind the chair, trying to re-fasten her frock whilst Randall closed his
dressing gown in an attempt to protect his manhood from the young cubs
towering rage.
How dare you, sir! Treating my sister Isolde like a whore! her brother
thundered.
It wasnt his fault. It was my mistake, all my doing, she said, cringing
physically as she tried to cover her bareness, but rising to the occasion
spiritedly. Ill come home right now and we can all forget this ever
happened--
No we wont! both men barked simultaneously.
Randall glared at her, and Stephen at Randall.
Youre mine. Im not giving you up, Isolde.
Im not backing down from a duel with the blackguard who tampered
with my sister!
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
100
Will you both please stop this a moment! she urged. This is my life,
my future. And now that youve got involved, Stephens as well. The whole
familys. Both our families, for I am well aware, Randall, of some of the
conflict which sprang up between our fathers toward the end of their lives.
That was politics. Im talking about family matters, love, passion.
And my sister is already engaged. My father
Im sorry, lad, she said, shaking her head. Howell threw me over as
soon as our fortune vanished into thin air. He and Fanny Clarence have an
understanding
Thats impossible! Shes never said. Why He looked as though he
were about to burst into tears.
She stared at him in dismay, her heart sinking at how she had just injured
Stephen. Isolde realized with a jolt that her poor baby brother had become
smitten by the dowdy and bookish little heiress with mouse-brown hair and
buck teeth.
Still, her fortune was enough to attract any man. The idea of Howell
marrying Fanny, and expecting Isolde to be his mistress, was just too
disgusting to even contemplate.
Sitting carefully on the edge of an ornate gilt-edged chair whilst she refastened her gown securely, she told her brother everything that had
transpired between she and Howell from the time their father had died until
he had left the Earls house being hotly pursued by the vengeful prostitute
the previous night.
So you see, lad, Howell orchestrated the whole thing, she concluded,
or just about. He thought to ruin me simply by having me come here
unchaperoned.
"But I, well, the truth is I ruined myself. It wasnt Randalls fault. I
wanted him, I took all he had to offer. Anything rather than give myself to a
selfish lover, or be a withered up old virgin angry at the world because I
didn't dare act upon my passions when I had the chance."
Randall could not imagine her ever old or withered, but he refrained from
interrupting her and just reached over to pat her hand.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
101
He looked so young and boyish, not much older than her brother as she
did so, that she blinked. And I suspect, she said, a new light of
understanding in her eyes, that you have been duped as well. Let me guess.
One of Howells friends told you I was here, didnt they?
Her brother nodded soberly. Yes, as a matter of fact Parkins did, first
thing this morning. I came up on the first public conveyance I could find.
She exchanged looks with Randall. So the man who was supposed to be
his duelling second scurried back to Surrey to fetch you. He now wants you
to fight for my honour in a duel, and either kill Randall, or get injured
yourself, leaving my whole family without a male protector. It is too
despicable.
Randall spoke at last. Well, now you shall have two male protectors, my
dear Isolde. I have already asked you to marry me, and I meant every word
of it.
She shot him an irritated look, and rose to leave. Please, I have had
enough japes and men trying to manipulate me for one day. I shall just go
with my brother. You understand now, Stephen, the circumstances. There is
no reason in the world to fight a duel over my supposed honour, which in
this case was quite willingly forfeited. It was most certainly never taken by
force in any way. Well go to our new home, and theres an end
The Earl shook his head. Ive already told you, Isolde, Randall said, his
voice full of quiet resolve, Im not letting you go. Howell for one is a
dangerous man, and it is evident that since he and Parkins caught us in the
act, that youll never be able to live this down.
She shrugged. I shall find something in Somerset when I get there. We
shall live humbly. If my family is restored that will be well for them. I shall
not be coming back to London.
Isolde grasped her cloak and donned it with a decisive flourish as though
the matter were at an end. Before Randall could stop her, she picked up the
rest of her things and took two steps towards the door.
He tried not to panic. Seeing he was getting nowhere with Isolde, he
appealed to her brother. I say, Mr. Drake, Stephen, youre a man of the
world. You know I speak the truth. Howell will ensure that Isolde will never
be able to hold her head up again. It might even affect aversely the prospects
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
102
of your younger sisters. Howell may have been your fathers choice because
of business or other ties. I mean no disrespect to his memory.
But Howell is a despicable abuser of women, and an inveterate gambler.
If you have any influence with the Clarence family, any of you, I beg you to
warn her that marriage and the begetting of an heir might be the most
dangerous thing that poor child ever does.
Stephen was not quite the worldly person his sister was due to her work
at the clinic, but he knew enough about the nature of the relations between
men and women, and the unhappy nature of many unequal matches made for
rank and fortune. He paled.
He considered Randall carefully for a moment, and decided that despite
all the circumstances, he rather liked and trusted him. Much more so than he
ever had Howell.
At length Stephen nodded. I could have Mother speak to them, or
introduce you. I say, I should be most grateful. Fanny is my dearest friend.
We grew up together, all of us. I think no matter how bad it is, Mr. Clarence
would want to hear the truth.
Randall moved over to the desk at once. Heres pen and paper, then.
Please, ask you family to come up, and the Clarences as well. I shall have
my servants go down with two of my carriages to fetch them all. My
servants will show you to a room and prepare several for the guests. Just ask
for anything you need and it shall be yours. And if you want a bit of sound
advice from a much older man, if you love Fanny, ask for her hand right
now, before its too late.
Stephen shook his head. With everything so unsettled, and me not able
to touch my inheritance until I come of age? Even assuming the solicitors
can make any sense out of things with Father dying intestate? How could I?
I will help, Randall promised immediately. Help you all. As your
brother-in-law, I give you my word that you will not have to give up your
home, or worry about money or schooling. Private tutors, university,
whatever you desire. For you and your younger sisters as well if they are so
inclined. Im more than wealthy enough, and it would please me to assist
you in whatever way possible.
Isolde gazed at him, wide-eyed. What a remarkable offer. Educating her
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
103
sisters as well, when most men didn't even believe women had brains? As
she gazed at him, she really began to think he was actually serious!
Stephen protested mildly, But my father
I know. I know. I will not say it was not a devastating blow. But I refuse
to see you all suffer because of the machinations of Howell. True love ought
to be permitted to find a way, even if I never believed in it before now. Your
lovely sister has convinced me that it does exist. And that it should be
grabbed with both hands.
He smiled over at Isolde, who stared back at him as though he had
sprouted three heads.
She rose to pace the floor in front of the hearth, rubbing her arms against
the sudden chill coursing though her. But you cant! Help us all in that
manner, I mean. We can't take such charity!"
"Nay, not charity if we are all family."
"We are nothing to each other
Well all be family as soon as you consent to be my bride, he said in
his most reasonable tone.
But
Stephen now nodded. I say, Sis, I know you can be very willful and
independent. But this would solve all of our problems, money and otherwise,
and not least the issue of that wretch Howell trying to make you his mistress,
and ruin all of our good names now that you've well, done what you've
done.
She shot her brother a look which would have made a more intelligent
man run for the door. Typical male! You come here to kill Randall, and end
up taking his side! she said tearfully, throwing herself onto a sofa with a
flounce, and wincing at its firmness upon her tender flesh after her exertions
with Randall.
Randall looked at her sympathetically and said to Stephen, Why dont
you go into the study to write those letters? You dont mind do you, lad?
Your sister and I will be in here working through our pre-nuptial
agreement.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
104
Oh, um, certainly. You need to be by yourself. Fifth wheel and all that.
Ill get the butler to show me the way.
Isolde exclaimed, Stephen, now that youre here, youre supposed to act
as chaperon!
He rolled his eyes and grinned cheekily. A bit like closing the barn door
after the horse has bolted, isnt it? Randall Avenel, the Earl of Hazelmere,
wants to marry you. Do you really want me to duel him and get killed?
No! she said in horror.
Do you really want our young sisters to suffer because of you? Mother
and myself would not think any the less of you. We want you to be happy,
and will be on your side no matter what.
"But you know Howell as well as I do, even more, more's the pity, given
everything you've told me today. Howell will blacken you from one end of
the country to the other. Hes dangerous when thwarted. And I love Fanny, I
don't mind admitting it now, now that I'm in such danger of losing her.
Please Isolde, if not for yourself, think of what marriage to the Earl can do
for the whole family. It will be such a good thing for us all, Sis. I cant
understand you hesitating.
She gasped, Because I didnt even know Randall before last night, and
now you want me to marry him as though it were the most logical thing in
the world!
Stephen crossed his arms in front of his chest and thrust his chin out
mulishly. He glared for a moment, then said, All right, Isolde, if you really
dont like him, dont marry him. But I would say if you were willing to let
him quiddle his cod with you, you must fancy him well enough to wed him.
He shrugged his shoulders and shut the door behind him, leaving Randall
grinning joyfully, and Isolde hiding her face with a groan of dismay.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
105
Chapter Ten
Randall gave a rich throaty laugh. I like him, he said once her brother
Stephen had left them alone in the small drawingroom once more. What
verve and zest. He is right, you know, darling. If you like me enough to have
intimate relations with me, Im insulted that you would want me for
anything other than marriage. He managed to assume a wounded look in
the face of her mortification.
Now youre making it seem as if I seduced you, she accused angrily.
He gave a slow, seductive smile. Didnt you? The first time with your
wonderful sweetness. The second time with all the incredible things you did
to me by the fire? All I can say is youre the most amazingly curious and
naturally sensual woman I could ever have been fortunate enough to meet.
Oh, stop! she said, blushing profusely again, though inwardly she
longed for the words to be true.
Im completely serious. Im sorry youre upset, dearest. But I really do
think we should marry. When Howell finds out his little plot to kill poor
Stephen hasnt worked, hell be back. We need to circumvent him. Just think
how wonderful it will be to see your brother happy. Your whole family.
Im would be prostituting myself, and youd be allowing me! How can
you wish me to marry you for such mercenary reasons? she fired back
bitterly.
I dont! Im merely itemising the practical considerations. If you really
loathe and despise me, dear, then I urge you by all means to say no, he said
bravely, though the words nearly choked him.
She raised her chin proudly. I dont think I want to hear all the logical
reasons for us marrying. I dont wish to be reminded of my fathers
arrangement with Howell. If Im now a free woman, I can be free to marry
for love.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
106
Are you so sure ours would not be a love match? he asked huskily.
We already have so much fire between us. I dont know what love is, I
freely admit it. I thought I was in love with a woman once long ago. In the
end all I felt was odium, and relief when it ended. But the thought of you
leaving me is so devastating its like all the light and warmth is being sucked
from the room.
She started at his harsh tone, and risked looking into his incredible eyes.
But why? Why on earth would you want to wed the impoverished daughter
of your fathers enemy? For revenge? To get me in your power and make me
pay? she challenged.
He took a deep breath to steady his voice, and shook his head gently. I
swear to you, no. I have to admit I have my own considerations as well even
beyond my own wishes, but not to get revenge for something which isnt
your fault. My primary consideration now is what my mother wants and
needs. I would do anything for her.
If you wed me, I will not only get a wonderful and lovely wife who
shares my own tastes, and one who is well brought up and thus a fine
addition to my household. I would also get a whole new family of a brother
and sisters. And a nurse as well if you are willing. Or willing to teach a
couple of members of staff and myself if you do not wish to
No, she said quickly, I do wish to help, more than anything. I really
do want to try to make a difference to your poor mother. Ease your burden.
Thats why I came. And now that I'm here, well, I can see how hard this has
all been for you. I have no wish to make things worse.
He smiled wanly. Thank you. By helping her youll help me. That will
make me fall more in love with you than I already am.
You cant possibly She shook her head, unwilling to believe the
words she had always longer to hear. This is all going to fall to pieces.
Then Im going to have a husband raking all about Town
He put his hand on his heart somberly. I give you my solemn oath. I
have never been unfaithful. One woman, one at a time. No false promises.
And with the way you and I make love, why would I ever even try to find
someone else?
Men like variety. They dont want steak and potatoes every night, as I
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
107
overheard Howell once say.

He shook his head. I always knew he was a damned fool, but that just
proves it. You can have variety with hundreds of different sexual positions,
different practices. And the most powerful sexual organ in both bodies can
be the mind. If you were mine, Isolde, nothing would tempt me away, let
alone mere money.
The mind? she laughed, settling back on the sofa despite her tenseness,
once again becoming captivated with all Randall said and did.
He drew up the chair they had been making love upon, and sat on it now
in front of her. He risked taking one hand, and she permitted the liberty.
Yes, the romance, the whole thrill of getting to know the other person,
their likes and dislikes. Sharing fantasies and dreams. Ive never had it
myself, but I know my parents did.
I want to know what its like to have someone so in tune to my emotions
and needs that they can finish my sentences. You know what I want in bed
without me even having to say a word. I feel sure that can extend to all the
other things we share.
Maybe its because of your second sight. Perhaps its because we really
are made for each other. I dont know. He shrugged.
All I do know, my dear, is that I cant let you walk out of my life. Not
without being sure that I havent already found within you what Ive been
looking for the whole of it.
She stared at him incredulously. But you said you didnt believe
He blew out a ragged breath. All right. I have a confession to make.
About your vision. I lied, Isolde.
Her eyes widened, and a finger of fear stroked down her back. But you
said
He held up one hand to forestall her. Ill talk to you about the rest one
day soon, I promise. Its too hard now, and time is pressing. For the moment,
please believe me when I say I need you to complete me, to save me from
myself.
Please, darling, Im getting down on bended knee. He did so now, a
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
108
most splendid sight in his silk dressing gown, which made her mouth go dry.
Im begging you to consider my proposal. I give you my word of
honour, I shall never give you cause to repine. I know weve met in the most
extraordinary circumstances, but you can trust me, I swear. We shall have
my solicitors call, and make whatever settlement you want so long as youll
be mine.
She gazed up at his earnest expression and stroked his cheek, sorely
tempted at his incredible offer. He was the most remarkable man, one any
female of her acquaintance would kill to possess. But she just couldnt yield
herself up to so shadowy a man.
Its too much, too sudden, she whispered.
I know, but were running out of time, he said, kissing the hand that he
held. You and I both know what we did last night. Howell saw us. There
can be no mistaking that. If a child were to result, it would go even harder
with you.
"Howell has manipulated you all. He sent you here to be ruined, and that
poor lad to be killed in a duel. It's unconscionable. I really do want to help,
and no, it is not charity. It is true that tour family are in dire distress
financially due to your affairs being mishandled, but I can help sort it out,
me and my men of business. But we're running out of time, both in terms of
your reputation, and that poor girl Fanny and her family who are also being
manipulated. Your brother is going to lose the girl he loves if we dont
make some sort of intervention on his behalf. None of this has to happen if
youll just say yes.
We cant, she said tearfully, trying to ignore the powerful feelings
budding within her as he caressed her face.
He got off his knees to sit beside her on the sofa, and looped one arm
loosely around her waist. We can, Isolde. Please.
She sighed, but did not draw away. Once again, the magnetic attraction
between them was actually bringing her head down to rest on his broad
shoulder. It wouldnt be fair to you. Youre giving up so much, offering us
the most generous terms, and I have nothing to give you in return.
It would be fair to both of us, he urged softly, delighted at how she was
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
109
cuddling up to him like a small, trusting kitten. Your lovely self is all I
want or need. Your help with Mother would be an added gift.
I mustnt be selfish, she sniffed.
Never that, my treasure. Youre all things kind and generous in the
world. But I must be selfish. I just can't help it. I want you, want you so
much, Isolde. He bent his head now to kiss her, and she thawed for a brief
moment.
Then she pulled away from his questing lips. No, I cant let you make
such a sacrifice. I know youre only doing this because you fear Howells
revenge against me and think I have no other choices.
It wont be a sacrifice at all, believe me, he said vehemently, shaking
his head. I would give up far more than a bit of money and some of my
time to win your love. Our marriage will be paradise on earth, just as it was
last night.
She quirked one brow. Adam and Eve lost their paradise. They fell prey
to temptation. Are you trying to tell me the leopard has changed its spots?
He put his hand on his heart. It will be paradise with us, Isolde, I swear.
I will never ever be tempted to stray if it meant losing all we have together.
If it meant hurting you, or you leaving me.
She gazed at him, her cornflower eyes sparkling with a welter of
emotions. What if we find weve made a mistake, if our marriage turns to
Hell?
He shuddered, but shook his head. It wont. I wont let it. I promise.
She sighed. Im still not sure.
He flashed her a boyish grin. I could always take you back upstairs to
make you sure.
She gave a slow answering smile of her own. That would be cheating.
All is fair in love and war.
She looked at him narrowly then. This isnt war to you, is it?
Randall stood up, trying to avoid her gaze. What would make you think
that?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
110
Isolde saw she had hit the mark then. The matter between my father and
yours, for one. And I know what you said about Howell, but rakes like you
dont have very much respect for women. They use them, then cast them
aside. How do I know youre not pursuing me for some hidden reason?
Manipulating me in some way to punish me later?
Randall's lapis eyes widened in horror at the very thought. No, I swear
it. I cant blame you for what happened. Yes, I am out for revenge. If your
father were alive I would ask him where he had got such damning
documentation which he held up for all to see, to ruin the father I loved and
admired.
But your father is gone now too, so the point is moot. Besides, as much
as they were in political opposition to one another, they admired each other
enormously. I know many of the vicious tabbies of the Ton will say the old
man would spin in his grave to see me marry you, but when have they ever
lacked for gossip. What matters is how we feel about this, and to protect
you. And since my mother clearly likes you, then I am sure he would have
been happy for us too."
"Thank you for saying so, bit"
My mother is now the only family I have left for whom I would hold
any respect for their opinion upon our match. Im confident shell be
thrilled, darling, so I have no reason to want revenge upon the lovely woman
who has made me happy for the first time in so many years.
But Randall, youre an intelligent man, she protested. Surely you want
to more time to think about this. A sensible chap would not make decisions
like this based solely on, well, the stirrings of his amorous parts. She
blushed furiously, but continued to direct her level gaze at him.
He met her gaze head on, unwaveringly. I think Im as good a judge of
character as the next man. I like to weigh up the many different factors in a
situation, and make a choice.
"It may not be the correct choice, true. But if I do make a mistake, I can
usually always rectify it. Or, if I cant, I take the consequences like a man.
Youre a unique woman in my experience. Ive never even come close to
asking anyone to marry me before. One touch, one kiss from you and I was
truly lost, he confessed.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
111
"Oh, Randall"
He caressed the length of her elegant back. It's true. I had no idea there
would be such consequences when I first touched you. But once I knew who
you were and what had happened with Howell, I didnt stop myself, did I? I
decided then and there, when he was menacing you, that you belonged safe
and protected with me.
When I asked you to stay, I did genuinely intend for you to just sleep
with me, nothing more. But once you touched me, well, I didnt even have
the control to try to stop what was happening between us, to try to prevent
conception.
He stroked one arm up and down her shoulder apologetically. She gave
him a timid smile, and snuggled back into him again, mesmerised once more
by his deep masculine tone.
We know what Howell wants. A duel with me, or at least being able to
shred your reputation like a wet newspaper, Isolde, the better to force you
into his bed. Have no doubt of that for an instant. I know what hes capable
of. He was even prepared to let Stephen be killed to get what he wants."
She shuddered at that thought. It was true. If the two men had not been
prepared to be so reasonable with one another, all of this could have ended
very badly indeed.
This may seem very sudden to you, madness, I know, but Im of an age
where Id like to be married, settle down, have a good home. I think you,
who have been so devastated by the loss of your father, would like those
things as well, if not for yourself, then for your family.
Nothing will happen to them if they are under my protection, I give you
my word. They can stay in your home for as long as they like, and I shall
never even ask for a dowry or settlement. There is no need to uproot them,
and if we are married, we can all hold our heads high."
"Oh, I only wish we could"
"If we look like a happy, loving family, no matter what Howell or
Parkins say, the mud won't stick. They can all think that we have known
each other for some time, had a secret understanding, and your father's death
has caused us to move more quickly than we might otherwise have wished."
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
112
"Poor Papa. I wish with all my heart he was still with us, but since that's
impossible, you're right, I do have to think about what's best for them all.
Howell manipulating us is not it."
Aye, that is certainly true. I dont know where things stood before he
died, or where they will in the future. But I promise you, darling, that your
mother and sisters will be looked after as befitting their station. I will help
your brother make his way in the world, send him to university, whatever he
wishes.
Finally, and completely honestly, Isolde, Ive never met anyone I ever
thought I could bear to spend a whole night with, let alone the rest of my
life. Both my mind and my body tell me to marry you, before its too late.
And if I say no, these are not good enough reasons to wed? she asked
in exasperation, pulling away from him once more.
His voice was a sultry purr against her ear as he leaned forward to nuzzle
her cheek. Then I shall take you to our family estate out in the country, to
the master bedroom where my parents begot the five of us, and fill you over
and over again while you beg me for more just as you did last night, until
you quicken with my child. Then you shall have no choice but to marry me.
She sat up straight with a gasp. You wouldnt dare.
His lapis eyes sparked in challenge. Dont bet on it, love. Remember, a
wager of mine was how all of this started, and Im a very lucky man. And
certainly were where you were concerned. The luckiest. I dont know when
your next monthly ought to arrive, but the odds are in my favour if we enjoy
each other as thoroughly as we did last night and this morning, I can get you
enceinte inside a few weeks. I shall certainly have a wonderful time trying.
As I shall make sure you do too. Wonderful.
She was deeply shocked at his forthright words, but titillated as well. I
cannot believe this. Id heard you were a rake. No one ever mentioned you
were a madman.
I am mad, darling Isolde, he said, taking her hand to kiss it once more.
"Mad for you to be my wife, to give yourself to me in every way, and to let
me give myself to you the way Ive never given myself to any woman.
He reached for her waist now, but she suddenly grew fearful of the raving
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
113
passion that tore through her with his slightest touch.

This is too much, she said, cowering away from his questing hands.
Please. Just let me go. I want to go home to Surrey.
His face fell. I cant be responsible for your ruin like this.
You arent. Howell will be if he bruits it about. But you cannot be given
a life sentence for a crime you did not commit.
"What if I want to be prisoner to your charms, Isolde, without any hope
of parole?"
"Please, Randall, this is no laughing matter, and I would not want you
condemned to a life of misery."
But what if that's all I deserve? he said under his breath.
She stared at him now, stunned. You want to punish yourself by
marrying me? What on earth
No! No, not at all. I want and need you. I would be lost if you walked
out that door now without giving me a chance to redeem myself.
You dont need redemption through me!
Perhaps I do, through you and your family. My one chance to do a truly
good and selfless deed.
If you feel that strongly about it you can help my family without taking
me in marriage.
Darling, I know youre trying to be noble for all or sakes, but do you not
see the danger youre in? he said heatedly. Im telling you, Isolde, Howell
will find some other hapless victim to manipulate, accuse me of rape, of
goodness knows what else. You saw how he tried to dupe your own brother.
The cynical bastard would have sent your innocent sixteen-year-old brother
to his death for the sake of whatever he has up his sleeve!
Her heart lurched in her chest at that. Randall was not exaggerating. It
was all true....
He will marry innocent young Fanny for her money, and make all your
lives a living hell! Isolde, you need to help us all here just as much as I want
to help you. If the authorities accuse me, they will pull us apart. If I go to
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
114
prison for rape, what will happen to my mother? Not to mention the fact that
you would be left unprotected, your standing in good society completely
gone. Then Howell would harm you in whatever manner he wished, and we
might never see each other again.
I know you have no reason to trust me, Isolde, but will you please
believe me when I say I dont want to ever see you hurt or lose you? I
couldnt bear it if you left. Not after the magic of last night and this
morning.
Isolde saw the bleak expression creep over his face again. It moved her
far more than any rational arguments for or against wedlock ever possibly
could. Once again, she saw the visions. They were shadowy still, but more
clear: a horse, death, blackness.
She began to reconsider anew all he had just said. What he had admitted
to her. That her visions were not wrong.
Whatever hell Randall had been through, he deserved some happiness.
For some inexplicable reason, he was telling her that he had found it in her.
She did not know what kind of women he had encountered in his past,
but it was evident that they had never cared about anyones happiness other
than their own.
And she could see now that he had not understood joy, not since he had
lost his childhood. Whatever he felt guilty about had consigned him to a
living hell for years.
As for her own happiness, well, why not? He was a most remarkable
man, even beyond being an Earl with an impressive fortune. He had
character, decency, and did not seem to think women were mere chattel, or
all whores. The very fact that he had offered to educate her sisters told her
that.
Very well, she said, hugging her to him tenderly. You shant lose me.
I will marry you, Randall.
He seized her around the waist, scooped her into his arms, and twirled
her until she laughed. Then he kissed her, and ran out the hall and up to his
the bedroom, plopping her down on the bed and avidly tugging at the
fastenings of her gown once more.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
115
He grasped her hands and placed them on the belt of his robe. We ought
to tell my mother straight away, but I want you so much
She was already freeing him from the constraining fabric, avid once more
for the joys that only Randall could give.
He stroked up one silk-clad leg and insinuated two fingers deeply inside
her, surprising her so much that she gasped and clung to him to steady her
reeling world.
He removed his fingers and licked them, causing her to start with shock.
Just gorgeous. Delectable. And soon to be all mine. As this will be all
yours.
He pressed her hand against his rock-hard length as he tugged at her
makeshift bun and allowed her hair to tumble around her bare breasts. He
fanned out her tresses and flicked them over her shoulders. Then his mouth
was upon hers, hot and heavy for a moment before trailing down over her
breasts and stomach.
You never did get a bath this morning before you tried to creep away.
Maybe I should just wash you now. A bit of a cat lick, you know. He
grinned merrily, his mouth working its way lower.
I know. But I think I would rather wait, if you dont mind. For the bath
and the lick. I need you, Randall, inside me, please?
Well, since youve asked so nicely, how can I possibly refuse my
adorably lovely future wife anything?
He moved her to the edge of the bed and pressed her knees upwards. Like
a child with a new toy he moved her legs further still, marvelling at her lean,
lithe strength as her ankles circled her ears. He put a pillow under her
bottom, wedging her backside upwards until the lower half of her body
formed a plateau.
I dont want to make you sore with going in and out. Lets try up and
down.
But youll never fit.
Trust me. I know all of you can be incredibly sensitive, but the first two
inches are the most thrilling for you, he murmured as he began to tease her
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
116
with his fingers in that exact spot.

He traced every hidden peak and valley both outside and within until she
begged him to come all the way inside her. As if doing press ups, he moved
over her and slipped in millimetre by teasing millimetre.
She climaxed again and again as he raised and lowered himself rapidly
then slowly with the smallest of movements, until finally she grew so
desperate for him to fill her completely and take his own release that she
lowered her ankles and grabbed one buttock.
He went crashing down on top of her, but she yanked the pillow out from
underneath them and moved her hips until his knees buckled. He fell onto
the carpet kneeling and drove into her as she sat up and kissed him.
Isolde, oh Lord, he panted.
He got to his feet long enough to heave them both full-length across the
bed and spilled his seed within her with great shuddering sighs. He kissed
her over and over again as he came down from his powerful climax, then
lunged from the bed to grab her dressing gown.
Tomorrow, Isolde. As soon as your whole family is here. Not a day
later. Promise me.
I promise, she panted, accepting his powerful kiss as he wrapped his
velvet dressing gown around her once more.
He tugged his own silk one on and took her hand to lead her down the
hall to check on his mother, and tell her the incredible news that they were to
be wed at once.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
117
Chapter Eleven
Randalls mother accepted the news of their engagement with a warm
smile and a complete lack of surprise.
You two look so like we did when your father and I were first married,
though of course the hair colour is different in Isoldes case. Tell me, when
will your family be arriving, and what are your plans?
Isolde looked up at Randall.
Theyll be here by the end of the day. We can get married here in this
chamber if you dont mind the intrusion, Mother.
No intrusion at all. Send a note around to Jonathan Deveril at once, for
he should still be in Town. It will be lovely to have such a dear friend
preside at your wedding. Then you need to take Isolde shopping for a
gown.
Oh, no, really, I dont need
Nonsense. Every bride needs a trousseau.
Oh, but I have a perfectly good wardrobe
Besides, a married lady dresses quite differently from an unmarried
lady, and I think my son would like to start showering you with attention and
presents. Please indulge him. Ive never seen him look so excited, not even
when he was engaged to Clarissa.
Randall wished the ground would open up and swallow him.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
118
Isoldes eyes reflected hurt. He had lied already?

But Randall had never asked Clarissa to marry him. She had come upon
him out of the blue and fiddled with his little friend, and as a virgin he had
been overwhelmed.
Clarissa had done lewd things to herself and him until he had been crosseyed with desire. She had then insisted that he had ruined her and would
have to make good. He was a youngest son, true, but his parents had spoiled
him so....
But every time he had insisted he wanted to set a date, she had fobbed
him off with excuses. Every time he had tried to make her his at last, she had
said she was a virgin and feared pregnancy.
Except it had all been a lie, for he had seen with his own eyes his brother
riding her in the stables like a Derby winner.
He had practically choked on his own bile as he had run into the woods
and vomited his guts up through his mouth and nose and sworn he would
never trust a woman again. He would tell Isolde all this later, but for now he
had to undo the damage...
She asked me, I never asked her. She proved unfaithful and eloped with
someone else. One day she was with us, the next she had vanished without a
trace, and I never heard from her again.
You might as well tell her about all the children while youre at it, his
mother suggested mildly.
Isoldes mouth dropped open. Oh, Egad, it just kept getting worse.
He saw her face freeze and protested quickly, They arent mine, I swear
it. As God is my witness, Ive always been careful except where youre
concerned, Isolde, he said, not even caring at the fact that he was making so
intimate an admission in front of his mother.
Lots of women have boasted theyve had me. Quite a few women did,
for only a couple of hours. I look after several children whose mothers were
friends or proved needy. I happen to like children and did not feel it was
their fault. They are all raised in the country, and given a good life. Im as
sure as I am of my own name they were all conceived long after I had
anything to do with them, if I did at all. In two cases I did not. I know I am
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
119
no Radical, but they should not be blamed for the sins of the parents.
And you, you approve? Isolde asked his mother through stiff lips.
The older woman nodded. My son may enjoy women, but Randall is not
a liar, and hes not a bad man. And they are delightful children who have a
good set of foster parents who cater to their every whim.
My son has had a rather vivid and exciting life since the end of the war,
exploring all the Continent has to offer. But I do believe hes ready to settle
down and become a responsible family man now. I hope youre eager to
start a family yourself, my dear, for I would most certainly adore a little
grandbaby of my very own after everything thats happened. And I hope you
will like the children, and try not to hold their past against them.
No, I shant. Its very good of you both, she said in surprise.
Randall shrugged as if the matter were not of the least importance. I will
warn you now, there are eight in all. Five boys, three girls. Three of them are
legitimate, the children of a friend of mine who was killed in the war. His
wife couldnt cope, went bad. She begged me to help them before she died. I
would have helped sooner if she hadnt run away in a fit of grief.
Ive never had a wife before, nor a regular mistress, nor set any woman
up in an establishment, I swear it. None of them are mine, but the turning
my back on them is unthinkable.
She nodded. I understand, and agree.
He smiled down at her in sheer relief. Good. Im glad were in such
accord. You dont have to take a direct interest in them, but I would be
grateful for your support, and would most definitely like your opinion of
what should be done for their futures.
She nodded, searching his handsome face for any sign of dissimulation.
But he seemed perfectly calm and at ease, not secretive at all.
Isolde decided that she simply had to trust him. It was not the worst thing
in the world he could have ever done, deciding to raise the children decently
rather than cast them off. She would think far less of him if he had just
rogered the poor women and denied his responsibilities.
Though in point of fact he had sworn he was not even responsible. It was
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
120
yet another of his strange contradictions that would eventually be resolved.

Anyway, never mind about us, Isolde said sincerely. How are you
feeling today?
All the better for having heard your news.
She tended to Randalls mother carefully for an hour, and at the end of
that time they all had some dinner. They were joined mid-meal by her
brother, who had finished writing the letters to his family and friends as
requested, and taken a tour of the house whilst they had been busy.
He was most kind and deferential to Lady Hazelmere, and Randall could
not fail to be impressed with his future brother-in-law.
If theyre going to be here in about four hours, Im going to take Isolde
out shopping. Is there anything you need?
Stephen flashed him a grin. I told them to bring their best wedding
clothes, and my finest suit. I know Im young, but thanks to your kind offer
of assistance, I have no need to wait any longer to tell everyone the truth,
and I am determined to marry Fanny immediately.
Very good. All shall be perfect then.
Dont forget your grandmamas jewels, darling.
He nodded, No, Mother. Im looking forward to bestowing them upon
my own wife in the very near future. Tell Hopkins to get them out of the
safe, and fetch out the wedding set.
He gave Isolde such a warm smile, she turned breathless with desire. Her
eyes glowed and sparkled, and hot desire scorched her cheeks.
Randall could not fail to interpret her look, and said gruffly, Well, if you
will excuse us, we need to bathe and shop. We shall see you later. Stephen, I
hope your chamber is satisfactory?
Very fine. May I avail myself of your fine library whilst I am here?
But of course.
Then I shall see you later at supper?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
121
They both nodded, and with a cheery wave, the bookish young man
vanished.
Randall bent to kiss his mother. Will you be able to sleep, dearest?
Yes, darling. Go off and buy her something trimmed in green for luck.
I thought it was the colour of jealousy?
It might well be, but its perfect for an Irish lass like her.
Partly Irish, Isolde corrected politely.
Aye, but its the part that counts. As am I. On the mothers side. Im
sure you even have the Sight.
Isolde started.
Randall stiffened perceptibly and looked from one woman to the other.
No, there was no such thing...
But it might explain why his mother had always been so good at reading
him. Even as a grown man she had been able to sense things about him that
no one else could possibly have known, things he hardly even knew about
himself.
Isolde could sense the dark flicker all around him again. Whatever he
was trying to hide, it was enormously important. It was no threat to her so
far as she could see, or at least not a direct one.
But if it wasnt resolved, he would still stay frozen, frozen in that stable...
I said, darling, are you ready for a bath?
Oh, um, yes. Well see you later, she said with a wave at the older
woman.
I do hope you too with call me Mother, Isolde. Come and give me a kiss
before you go?
She nodded, surprised and pleased at the request. She was usually shy
and reserved with strangers, but a naturally affectionate young woman, and
so embraced her warmly.
The older woman held on to her, and Isolde could feel his mothers bones
pressing into her arm and back.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
122
Trust him, with your life, as he will come to trust you. If you have trust,
all the love in the world will be yours for the asking, his mother whispered
against Isoldes ear.
I will, I promise.
Randall watched the exchange with unease. He wished to hear what his
mother had said to Isolde, but the words were indistinct.
He was relieved when the embrace ended and Isolde stood up straight
and looked at him with undiminished warmth.
He took her hand, lacing their fingers together most intimately, and led
her back to his blue and gold room.
He did his best to control himself in the bathroom, but the sight of her
buoyant breasts bobbing in the bubbles made him decide that an hour or so
of lovemaking would be the perfect way to get ready for their shopping trip.
For he wanted his bride to look radiant. With her well-kissed lips, flushed
features, and glowing skin, he was sure everyone who met her would
proclaim her a marvel.
From the tub to the bed without even drying themselves, they left a
passionate and damp trail. At last he shoved himself off her and insisted they
had to go shopping.
I dont need
Mother wants you in a new white and green frock, so that is what you
shall have. Theres a good modiste not far away. Now come, darling, into the
tub once more to rinse off, and on with the chemise and gown. And I
suppose youll have to put on the rest of the undergarments, he said in a
dejected tone. We dont want to terrify the old biddies. As it is they will be
scandalised by your lack of corsets.
They will be scandalised anyway if you keep looking at me like that,
she said with a wink.
When she came out of the bathroom her hair was billowing down over
her shoulders and down to her waist.
Hopkins found some of your hairpins, he said, moving over to the
dresser to fetch them and his hairbrush.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
123
He came up behind her and planted a warm kiss on her cheek. She moved
her head to touch his lips with her own, sliding her hand down one hardhewn thigh.
I adore your hair, he murmured against her shell-like ear. Will you let
me brush it?
If you like, she said, moved by the tender and intimate gesture.
Tell me if I do this wrong, pull too hard.
He tugged down her thick coil of hair which she had bundled on top of
her head for her bath, and stroked the brush down her long tresses.
Isolde nearly went on fire as his hand and the bristles worked in
conjunction, massaging her scalp until she was sure she was on fire. She was
so thrilled she almost purred.
The dewy moistness built within her in a sudden flood, and as Randall recoiled her hair she thought she would explode right there even though he
was standing an arms length away from him.
He was just putting the finishing touches to her coiffure when the passion
grew too great, and she let loose a sob of need. His eyes widened and he
turned her to face him.
What is it? Are you ill? he asked her worriedly.
She tried to avoid his gaze, shame burning her cheeks, but he asked so
softly, What is it, Isolde? Whats wrong? that she simply had to tell him.
My hair, your hands, the brush, it was so, well, thrilling. Im so-
He felt her vibrating in his hands, and cupped her buttocks against him.
Can you wait? he asked, raging desire burning through him, but knowing
their errand was also important.
I can try, but my legs are trembling and--
Standing there barefoot, she could barely keep herself erect.
But he was, in an instant.
He was delighted at her responsiveness, though the clock chiming four
told him he need to hurry if she was to have special wedding gown.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
124
What do you want, need, darling? I dont want to leave you suffering
like this, he murmured huskily against her throat.
I dont know, she panted. This cant be normal. Ive never
Neither have I. Tell me what you need. Hands, tongue?
She licked her lips and panted. All of you. Now. Hurry.
He wanted to give her his all, but he wanted to pamper her on her most
special day too. His desire for her knew no bounds.
He was certain if he did not keep a tight rein on himself, they would not
get out of the bed until nightfall. Or tomorrow morning.
Trust me?
Isolde recalled his mothers words.
Yes, oh yes! she groaned urgently. Please.
He rammed down his trousers and yanked up the hem of her gown and
chemise, tugged down her lacy drawers. Spinning her around, he flattened
her against the nearby table, the hard walnut edge massaging the tender flesh
of her stomach as he slid into her gloriously tight, wet sheath.
Grasping one breast, he let his other hand dip below her waist, making
her burst into a conflagration which scorched him.
Cripes, Isolde! Oh Lord, dont, stop! he gasped as she wrung him with
her feminine caresses, and they both climaxed long and loud, drenching each
other and the table as the spasms gripped them both in the most sublime
ecstasy.
When Randall could think clearly again, he withdrew gently, refastened
the falls of his breeches before he forgot himself all over again within her
surging body.
Then he eased her up off the table where she still lay stunned, and
quickly and deftly refasten her clothes. He stooped to pick up her shoes, and
grabbed her cloak and reticule.
Then he gripped the still passion-dazed young woman to his side for a
torrid kiss. As she began to respond to him again, he began to moan, but
caught himself just in time.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
125
No, we cant, or well miss the shops. Were going, darling, now!
He swung Isolde into his arms and ran down the stairs, through the hall
and straight into the waiting carriage.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
126
Chapter Twelve
Once safely in the carriage with Isolde, Randall breathed a sigh of relief.
Im sorry, darling. I just cant seem to help myself.
She smiled at him dreamily. Dont apologise. Ive been right with you
every step of the way. Then she sobered. But I suppose once a rake
No, love, dont even think it, he said in clipped tones. Nothing Ive
ever shared compares with the past day and night with you.
Well, I suppose I shall just have to trust you, then, she said in a small
voice, recalling his mothers advice once more.
Would it be safe to say that youre having doubts again? he asked with
a sigh.
She shrugged. Not really doubts, so much as concerns as to how huge a
step this is.
I know what Mother told you about me is upsetting. What else did she
whisper to you?
Oh, just a bit of good sound wisdom about trust in a marriage. Im sure I
will be hearing a great deal of that from my own mother when she gets here.
Forgive her if she lambastes you over what happened.
Now it was his turn to shrug. She only wants whats best for you. As do
I. So would anyone else who loved you. Im only glad Howell overplayed
his hand. The thought of you being in his clutches... He shuddered.
Its all right. He never. Not to say he didnt try, but
He looked at her sharply. I find that hard to believe.
She shrugged. I was never foolish enough to ever be alone with him for
more than a minute or two, and we have some burly footmen.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
127
And you never will be alone with him.

Never with any other man once we are wed, she promised.
Now, some suitable new gowns and other essentials, and then back to
the house, he said as he settled her on the seat and snuggled against her.
But Randall-
Please, allow me to indulge my bride. You have no trousseau prepared,
and you must have clothes.
I dont need much.
And because you have said that, you shall have it all.
She tried to enjoy herself at the boutique, and could not fail to be
impressed with his generosity and attention to detail. But Isolde also could
not help wondering how many other women he had showered with gifts like
this.
She risked voicing the question when he observed her perturbation and
asked what was troubling her. He could not imagine any woman not being
utterly thrilled with new clothes.
Buying gifts for women? Only one. My mother.
She let out a sigh of relief.
His face was the picture of earnest appeal. I would not have brought you
here if I thought it would bring disgrace upon you. That is not to say I have
not occasionally been asked my opinion about a gown or two by some
female friends, but I never ever showered women with gifts.
If they offered themselves freely, I said yes, we had an enjoyable time,
and I sent them on their way. Or they were professionals who wanted hard
cash. I never bestowed any material things, for women are apt to view
symbolism or sentiment where there is none.
I see. And how many ladies did you pay?
He shrugged. A slight hint of color tinged his cheekbones as he answered
honestly, At least half. Again, no entanglements. No regular mistress. And
no consequences.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
128
No intimacy either, she guessed.

He nodded, surprised at how quickly she had grasped it. Just so.
I am sorry. I dont mean to sound like Im judging you, or want to be
harsh.
I know. Its only fair to want to get to know more about each other, and
I for one dont blame you for your reservations. After all, not everyone
would like to have one of the most notorious rakes in England as their
husband, he said quietly, flicking through some muslins.
Oh, Randall, Im sorry if I seem less than grateful. I know youre only
trying to make me happy. But you dont need to buy me things to do that. I
really dont need anything more than the gown, at least not at this point.
No, sweetheart, a married lady and the wife of an earl needs to cut a bit
of a dash.
He spoke to the proprietress Mrs. Jenkins, who came over to ask about
his mother first, and then inquired as to what they wanted.
Seven of each of the stockings, drawers and chemises, will be ample.
Plus that brocade gown, the two woollen ones in wine and sable, the two
sprigged muslins, and, if I may, that white and green, and that emerald and
gold evening gown there.
Isoldes face fell.
For a moment he thought she detested his choices, until she protested,
But Randall, were both still supposed to be in mourning.
His face fell, and he sighed. How true. I had forgotten. I will take those
for some happier time in the future, if I may, Mrs. Jenkins, but can you
please get together a few black dresses for my wife-to-be. And some grey.
And you can never have too many changes of linen, he said, piling up the
lacy drawers and chemises until she blushed and begged him to desist.
He still managed to have his way with a couple of day dresses, evening
gowns, night gowns, a silk dressing gown in emerald green, and a warmer
one in burgundy velvet similar to his own, as well as some jet combs for her
hair.
Isolde could see him pointing or raising his brows if she so much as
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
129
paused at anything, so she soon stood still by his side and smiled up at him,
thanking him profusely for all of his kindness.
She was convinced she had ended up with more than he would have
given her if she had acted like some of her friends and grasped at everything
she could get her hands on. But what need had she of things, when she had a
man like Randall as her husband?
He instructed the modiste to wrap the clothes and make a couple of
alterations on the gown she was to wear for her wedding, and he found a
matching reticule and slippers for it.
While they waited, Randall suggested they go across the street for some
coffee.
No, really, Im fine.
Youve not eaten more than a few bites of toast when we went to see
Mother.
Im fine, really. We can perhaps have a special supper to celebrate when
we get home?
Most certainly, dearest. An excellent suggestion. I shall send orders to
Cook just as soon as we return.
Isolde waited patiently in the window seat for a time, until she caught
him flinging a few more pretty gowns onto the pile, and some ribbons to
match.
Randall, my dear, that's enough. There is no need to try to pamper me
so, and if you dont stop acting so furtively, I will start to wonder what other
things you are trying to get away with behind my back. Or right under my
nose.
It was a subtle warning, but enough to chasten him. Im sorry. I just
think that dress would go well with you eyes, your hair, he said, pointing to
a white lawn evening dress with a burgundy gauze overgown. I wont do it
again, I promise.
Its all right, so long as its a sign of thoughtfulness and devotion, not a
bribe or payment for services rendered, she said in a low tone.
Never, never that, he protested, taking her hand to kiss it. On my life,
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
130
I swear, never that. I want nothing to smack of a business transaction

between us, ever.
She wondered how many other women he had bedded in the room they
had shared, how many other women he had helped with their baths in that
great tub. But she remained silent. She did not want to know. She had to
trust him. There could be no love and esteem without faith.
Are you sure you dont want anything to eat?
No, thank you, she said, not wanting to let him out of her sight, yet also
longing for privacy to subdue her tumultuous thoughts. But you can go,
please.
He grinned. Actually, I was just thinking that the carriage might be a bit
more private for what Im craving at the moment. A dish fit for the gods.
She laughed tremulously. In that case Im staying here. Once were
home, I imagine there will be nothing stopping us.
Randall took her hand and helped her up. Only you, my dear. If youve
had enough, you have only to say. I know this is all very new to you, and I
would not hurt you with my clumsy stupidity, haste or selfishness.
She kissed his hand. None of those things. You are the most tender man
Ive ever met. And certainly not clumsy or stupid.
Ignorant of you, my dear, as I proved last night when I bedded you
thinking you were a, well, you know. But I want to learn. I need to
understand things better. I want there to be absolute trust between us in all
aspects of our life together.
She stared at him in surprise. It was what his mother had said. She
laughed lightheartedly. What, you mean even your business concerns, the
running of your estates?
All things. Its very difficult to do everything required as an earl.
How refreshing. To find a man who does not want to confine me to the
role of a mere ornament or piece of breeding stock.
His brows shot up and his lips quirked into a smile. If they did, they
know you even less than I do, and weve only just met, my sweet. He
kissed her hand again.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
131
So they settled into the window seat together and took the tea Mrs.
Jenkins offered.
While they waited for the clothes to be finished, answering the modistes
questions every so often, several women came in and out of the shop. Every
pair of female eyes in the place sparked with recognition.
And what? Isolde wondered to herself. Envy, anger? Shock at seeing her
with him? It seemed more a genuine surprise that he was there at all, tete a
tete with a woman, was her best guess.
If Randall had paid any attention to the narrowed stares or singled out
any one of the half-dozen attractive women in the shop, he certainly gave no
sign. He had seen the fury or lust on some of the womens faces. He always
did his best to be pleasantly neutral to his past conquests. No hard feelings,
no chance to repeat the performance.
All of the women were agog at his gall. Look at the little country mouse.
Her gown, her hair. Both hastily done not that long ago. She might we have
had to change in and out of her garments for the modiste, but there were no
prizes for guessing what they had been up to.
By Heavens, Randall Avenel was with a lover in the broad daylight
buying gowns for her in front of half of London!
Did the child not care that she was ruining herself? How could she be so
foolish? And he be so brazen? Jealousy and a desire to warn her warred in
their bosoms.
One dark-haired woman entered, froze, shot Randall an indignant glare,
and swept out straight back out. Her companion, a more timid blond widow,
was equally distressed, but thought it only fair to try to tell the poor child she
would regret it for the rest of her life if she ever gave herself to Randall
Avenel.
Unless of course she had already, in which case the poor thing was about
to get her heart broken.
Mrs. Samson said with a timid smile, How nice to see you again,
Randall. Hello, my dear. Charmed, Im sure. I dont believe I have yet had
the pleasure.
Mrs. Samson, this is Isolde Drake, Viscount Linleys daughter dont you
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
132
know. My fiancee.
The woman looked as though she had been pole-axed. The gasps around
the room were audible.
Isolde wished the maw of Hell would open up and swallow her, for never
had she seen such cold or appalled looks. Only Mrs. Samson stared at her
with anything resembling cordiality.
My dear, congratulations. You are so very young, though, and the
circumstances between your families are such that--
I know things have been rather strained, but sometimes adversity brings
people closer. Besides, I may look young, but I know a fine man when I
meet him, and while I am not as bright and talented as the Earl, I am
intelligent enough to marry him and try to make his life complete, as he so
lovingly has made mine.
Mrs. Samson looked as though she had been slapped and stepped
backwards two paces.
Isolde had said the words loudly enough for all to hear, effectively
throwing down the gauntlet. Every woman in the room might have shared
what she had with him last night for all she knew, but she had Randall now,
and marriage was far different from a mere futter.
Now that she had made up her mind to marry him, she was certainly not
going to do anything by halves. She had every intention of fulfilling every
commitment which marriage entailed, including being a good wife and
bearing his children, though she hoped not quite yet.
Isolde managed to keep her chin high and her eyes level as she looked at
the elegant society dame, who with her fine gown made her feel little better
than a serving wench.
Yet inwardly she was not composed in the least. She felt sickened at the
thought of him being with any other woman but her.
Isolde quashed the thought before she ran fleeing from the shop full of
breathtakingly beautiful and worldly women all goggling at her now as if
they couldnt imagine for the life of them what trick she had used to win the
Earl for herself.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
133
Well, congratulations to you both, and best of luck, my dear. She

turned and fled from the shop without a backward glance.
Her tone had said it all: Best of luck, for you will certainly need it.
Isolde took a deep steadying breath, trying not to let on how rattled she
was. Some of the women now came over to introduce themselves, all of
them sizing her up with envy, and some with a healthy respect.
The girl might not be of the most fashionable set, and the two families
were certainly trouble, but the girl was a beauty of the first rank.
Well, that was one silver lining to their otherwise stormy grey clouds. It
would be fascinating to see who managed, or indeed how many managed, to
cuckold the notorious rake Randall Avenel. That was assuming of course
that he even cared about the chit. As if he had ever cared about any woman
in his life.
She could hear them whispering to one another over the fabrics and
trimmings as she sat in the window seat with her fiances arm around her for
support, and tried to force down the tea as though she hadnt a care in the
world, even though she was sure she was about to be ill.
Now that hes the Earl, he probably felt duty bound to find some little
thing with good blood lines.
Yes, and before his poor mother pops it.
Indeed, I wouldnt be surprised if it was a term in his fathers will. Not
one dime until he gets an heir and a spare.
Another nodded. Hell get a couple of brats on the chit and be back in
circulation in no time.
What about all those little byblows of his?
Another whispered, Too many to count, if you ask me, and who could
tell who would be eldest to inherit, even if he went to the trouble of trying to
get them recognised by the law and tried to make them up into gentlemen.
Aye, and who are their mothers? Mere nobodies. At least shes a
Viscounts daughter.
"Aye, but their fathers were sworn enemies."
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
134
Randalls lawful wedded wife. How delicious, another drawled

sarcastically, making it sound little better a title than that of a strumpet. Or a
maidservant.
But one dire prediction echoed in Isoldes ears like a knell of doom: The
poor girl will never know a moments security or love.
Randalls face flamed, and he knew the most acute misery as he was
forced to hold his tongue less he cause an even worse scene. He longed to
defend her, reveal the depth of his feelings for her, but knew he would be
gossiped about even more rancorously if he dared.
So he had to content himself with squeezing her around the waist
affectionately, and offered her cake with a false smile that made him feel as
though his face would crack.
He hated their vitriol against himself, but at least he knew none of it was
true. But he loathed what it was doing to the now pale and tender young
woman by his side.
Randall wanted to kick himself for his own naivete. He had expected to
cause a bit of a sensation coming in here, but he never anticipated how livid
and unforgiving the Ton would be.
Randall needed to prepare Isolde for the inevitable storm of rudeness, of
being cut or mocked. And the inevitable train of ladies who were now going
to try to compete with her. For in his experience women often went out of
their way to pursue married men, looking upon them as even more of a
challenge, forbidden fruit.
And doubly convinced of the rightness of their action if the man had been
spoken of as a rake. Many rakes did not settle down to married life, but
enough did.
As he looked at the woman as they paraded past and some even dared to
wink at him, he vowed he would be one. He had so much to do with his
mother and now his new family, he would ensure he did not even have a
chance to stray. And why would he wish to with such a bride?
He reached out to take her hand, mingling their fingers tightly. Kiss me,
my love?
She nodded and lifted her mouth to his.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
135
Isolde, Im sorry.
For kissing me? she said pertly.
No, for the way these women are acting. I never gave any false
promises. It was a temporary diversion, no more. They knew it
I think that even the act itself, unless the woman is very worldly, is seen
as a commitment by a woman. After all, the consequences... Not to mention
the act of, well, taking someone inside of ourselves, getting so close to our
raw emotions, sharing our inner desires. It's so intimate. I imagine for some
people it is literally flesh against flesh only, sport or entertainment, but for
me
Yes? he prompted softly.
She blushed. I could never share myself like that with anyone other than
one I loved and respected above all else.
And I took that from you, he sighed.
She shook her head. No, not at all. I think on some deep level your soul
and mine met last night. Certainly the last time, and this morning. And as I
said, I could tell a great deal about you just from our correspondence and
She clamped her mouth shut, not wishing to remind him of the reading.
But he nodded. Your vision. Just as I didnt want it to end, wanted to
prolong our lovemaking, find out all about you, outside and inside. A couple
of hours of empty flirtation and a quick roll in the hay, and it was over with
these women, I swear. From the moment I kissed you in the blue drawing
room, I had visions of eternity never being enough to get to know the
mystery inside of you. I dont think I had been with you for more than five
minutes before I was going to ask you to be my mistress, he admitted.
Thats still good enough for me if
He shook his head. Not good enough for me, or for you. You deserve
everything I can give you, heart, body and soul. It wont be easy. I have no
experience of making anyone happy. Promise to be patient with me?
I have no experience of being a wife. So youll have to promise the
same to me as well.
Youre a remarkable girl, Isolde. One in a million.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
136
More like two million, by the looks of things, she could not resist
saying with a glare at one particularly obvious flirt strutting past. But you
and I are to be married, and well both just have to work hard towards a
happy marriage and family.
He kissed her again, much harder this time. I love the sound of that.
Especially the last part.
Oh dear, then wed better get back and start working on that part again.
With just one proviso.
He looked wary, but nodded. Anything.
That you always be honest with me. Please dont ever try to conceal
things because you think Ill be angry, or try to fob me off with half-truths or
excuses because theyre what you think I want to hear. Or because theyre
easier than revealing your true feelings, Randall, and trusting me with them.
Trusting me to understand, and not hurt or reject you.
Randall stood up abruptly, grasped the parcels already wrapped, and paid
the bill. Come, my dear. We can have the rest of things sent on. We have
your gown for tomorrow and a few other things to tide you over until then.
We need to get home to supper.
Randall had an appetite all right, but it was most certainly not for food.
He removed his gloves and took ample advantage of the privacy of the
carriage.
Isolde shuddered against him, gasping out his name as he pleasured her.
Even one finger was enough to set her off, and he greedily watched her as
she sat with her back against the side of the coach, her hem rucked up over
her bare hips, her drawers stuffed in the pocket of his jacket.
Randall, someone might see.
Ive got the shutters down now.
But I want to please you.
He brought her hand to rest upon his groin. You do. Do you see?
She stroked him slightly, but he eased her hand up to his face.
Randall, please.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
137
Were almost home. I promise.

But my family will be there.
Well tell Hopkins we're not to be disturbed until nine.
It was easy to trace the lovers whereabouts once the carriage pulled up to
the door, for their parcels were strewn from the front doorstep throughout
the house as Randall began to drop them while Isolde tugged at him
importunately.
He hung on to the wedding gown and parcel of fine underthings he had
seen them first wrap, and managed to plunk them down on the table in his
chamber before she unfastened him and rammed his back against the wall.
He lifted her by her dainty bottom and impaled her on his massive arousal,
and after only two strokes they exploded.
Then he let her legs slide down him until they dangled several inches off
the floor, turned so that her back was flattened against the panelling, and
began all over again.
Downstairs, Hopkins checked the pavement and coach for a few stray
packages, and then smiled and shut the door. He would go tell Cook to serve
supper at nine, and inform his guests that they were to make themselves at
home and the master would see them later. Much later.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
138
Chapter Thirteen
Isolde eventually got her special supper, but not until many hours later
when she and Randall had both surfeited on each other. They had got up to
check on his mother briefly, and had found her cheerful and eager to help
with the wedding arrangements, ordering the servants around like a general.
They had made sure she had everything she needed, then scurried back to
their room like two naughty children before her family could corner them.
Now they sat together in the huge black marble tub with gold fittings,
nibbling at a tray of delicacies and sipping champagne Hopkins had been so
kind as to leave by the door.
Occasionally Isolde had seen Randall's deep inner sadness surge up to
take hold of him during the many long hours they had kissed, caressed and
explored. She had held Randall tenderly, and he had clutched her to him as
though he would never let her go until his bleak mood subsided.
But for the most part he seemed boyishly happy, laughing and smiling,
talking about the wedding, her new gowns, the food and his various estates
dotted around England, and about the children he cared for as though they
were his own.
He seemed to have not a care in the world as he chatted about his life, but
she felt that there was some huge gap in what he was telling her.
Isolde could understand that. His career as a rake was undoubtedly not
something he wanted to bring up to his new bride. He also spoke little of his
mother, or the no doubt enormous number of duties being an earl entailed.
She resolved that once they were married, she would be the best helpmeet he
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
139
could ever hope for. After all, he was sacrificing so much in marrying her.
Protecting her from Howell, offering to help her brother and the rest of her
now penurious family, well, it was the least she could do.
But all practical thoughts fled as Randall lathered her breasts and then sat
him on top of her to join them as one in the hot soapy water. As she gave in
to the passion, she decided that he might be keeping things from her, but she
simply had to trust him. Not all of her questions or his contradictions were
going to be resolved in the less than one day since they had first met.
He urged her to hold back, prolong their lovemaking. We have all the
time in the world. Forever.
Yes, forever, she sighed, longing to believe it. She shoved aside all her
recollections of the women she had seen in the dressmakers shop.
Her orgasm, when it did arrive, was so powerful it sent the water
splashing all over the marble floor. She frowned and tried to mop some of it
up with a spare towel once she had wafted back down to earth, but Randall
simply laughed with delight at her joy and said it didnt matter in the least.
From the tub to the bed and back again, he loved her even as she begged
for more, until at last she was almost asleep. She could see from the hard
plains of his face that he was also tired, and kissed him.
Im sorry, she whispered, her eyes heavy-lidded with passion and
exhaustion. Its almost like Im frightened to sleep. Frightened that Im
going to wake up and all of this will have been a dream.
He kissed her tenderly, and pulled her up onto his chest. There, love. I
dont want to lose you either. But I cant go anywhere without you now. So
please, trust me, and lets go to sleep. I'm not going to vanish into thin air,
and I would be devastated if you tried to be noble and go away. I know the
circumstances have been most irregular, but I swear, Isolde, I want to marry
you more than anything."
"I'm so glad. Me too."
"So, were going to have a big day tomorrow. Our wedding day.
"Yes, my darling Randall."
"Which means we need to behave and sleep now."
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
140
"Mmmm." She melted against him, and her soft, even breathing told him
she had already dozed off.
He pulled the covers over her back, tucking her in tenderly, and with a
last kiss on her brow, they slept soundly until morning.
Isolde stirred first, and planting a light kiss on his lips, tiptoed to the
bathroom. She had not been gone more than five minutes when she heard
Randall call out to her.
She hurriedly finished her impromptu toilette and ran out. He was sitting
bolt upright in the bed, and she ran into his arms and kissed him.
When I didnt find you here, well, I suppose I panicked, he confessed,
his voice trembling. I was afraid you might have left.
Im sorry. I wanted to let you sleep. I promised I wouldn't leave, that I
would marry you, and I meant it. I always keep my word.
He smiled in sheer relief. "I'm sorry. I just can't bear the thought of
Howell or anyone else interfering in our happiness."
"They won't, I swear."
He gave her a firm kiss on the lips. Are you done in the bathroom? he
asked a moment later.
Um, well, yes, she said shyly.
Give me five minutes.
She tidied the pillows and covers which had been hurled all about during
their passionate exertions the night before. When he came back, Randall got
into bed and held her close.
It wasnt long before they were languidly making love, and as he
completed himself within her, each was sure they had never felt anything so
tender and moving. Isolde wondered how she had ever lived without him by
his side.
Randall wondered the same, for only in Isolde could he lose himself, his
past. She was a balm for his soul, the only woman who had seen his
darkness, and yet was not frightened of him. Perhaps other women might not
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
141
have been, but there was a radiance about Isolde that chased all of his
shadows away. Or at least he hoped so.
He knew he ought to tell her the truth about himself, but if they didnt
come out of the bedroom soon his new in-laws were going to think him the
worst degenerate, and he felt guilty for neglecting his mother so terribly,
leaving most of the wedding arrangements to her, though he had to admit,
this was the most perky she had ever been since his father had died.
In any event he dare not tell Isolde everything, not straight away. He was
sure he would lose her if she knew about Clarissa and Francis, what he had
done. He swallowed the bile that bubbled at the back of his throat at the
thought of his crimes, and of losing Isolde, and forced a smile onto his face.
He helped her bathe, as solicitous of her as he would have been of his
own mother. She had to admit she adored the attention, but once again it
gave rise to all sorts of uneasy speculations about how many other women
he had shared such romantic things with.
A bath, a few times, he said as he scrubbed her back, easily able to
guess where her thoughts were tending. Mostly because they were not as
clean as they ought to be. I cant stand a rank woman. You are so divine.
Like the scent of a babys skin, fresh, pure, innocent, with your own
womanly allure thrown in for good measure just to drive my loins
completely insane.
Oh, stop, she said with a blush.
He parted his robe. I promise to never say anything I dont mean. You
see how gathered they all are? Thats me just on the edge of completion.
She stared at his magnificent manly attributes and grinned. Ive never
see you at rest then.
Nor likely ever shall, until Im about one hundred, and even then, only
after weve just finished making love, he rasped.
I cant bear to see you in such dire distress, she said, opening her arms
to him.
He shook his head. If we do that, were never going to leave this room.
She got up from the tub and indicated he should get in and lie flat.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
142
He did so, and soon her soapy hands and her breasts gave him his release.
Thank you, he panted. Goodness me, I have no idea whats come over
me.
I know whats come over me, she said impishly. That is the right
word, isnt it? I mean, some of the things youve whispered to me Im not
entirely clear about.
I shall take great delight in teaching you, so long as you know that I
shall never ever consider the thought of you being with any other man.
Her eyes regarded him steadily as she stroked the hard slashes of his
cheekbones, softening their tautness. No danger of that, for surely you are
Adonis, Narcissus and the entire Greek and Roman pantheon of sensual
deities all rolled into one. Certainly Priapus anyway, she said with a
delighted laugh as his quiescent member began to stir anew and bobbed out
of the water most suggestively.
I give you my word, treasure, I dont usually walk around the streets
like this. Its worse than having taken cantharides.
At her puzzled look he explained, Some men use it to maintain their
erections. Its also cause Spanish fly. But its very dangerous, can cause the
kidneys to stop working.
Oh, yes, my cousin told me some of the women he treated a few years
ago had been swived to death by someone using that on them.
He shook his head, his lips a thin disapproving line. I never would, on
myself or any woman. But Im told Howell does use it.
You dont appear to need to use it.
Youre more than enough stimulation, oh
She had sucked him into her mouth and with one breathy sigh he gave
himself up to the sheer pleasure. When he grew too heated, he had her raise
herself onto him, and lathered her breasts with both huge hands as she
brought them both to completion.
Darling, much as I hate to end this, were supposed to be getting
married this morning. We still need to get dressed and speak to everyone.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
143
Mmm, she said, drowsing with her head on his shoulder, their breaths
mingling tenderly.
Never had Randall felt so moved. She was such an enticing combination
of innocence and wantonness he couldnt imagine why he had ever thought
he could be satisfied with hard, grasping worldly women who only wanted
him for his money or his skills as a lover.
Oddly, it was her innocence which set him off more, her wide-eyed
wonder and her evident desire to please him. To make him happy. Now she
was looking up at him so tenderly, he felt himself stirring anew, but told
himself to wait. Just a bit longer anyway...
He helped her dress in her new gown, a lovely sprigged muslin with
green ribbon at the sleeves and bodice, with leaf-detailed embroidery and a
fabulous train about four feet long completely covered in green, gold and
black embroidery.
He chose an emerald waistcoat and cravat to try to match her outfit, and
she thought he was perfection personified in his black suit. His black
armband was a sober reminder that they were both supposed to be in
mourning, and they both sighed and wished their fathers could be there. But
then, if they had been, the two of them might never have met
This will really set the tabbies hissing and spitting, but it cant be
helped.
Have you another? I mean, not that this isnt a joyous occasion, darling,
but I would like to wear one as a token of
I understand, dearest. You dont have to explain to me. Here, if we put it
around your arm twice it wont slip down.
He helped her put it on, and then he stood back to look at her. He twirled
his finger, and she rotated slowly.
Divine. Glorious. A wife any man in the universe would envy. And
youre all mine. He gave her a most unloverlike smack on the lips and she
laughed.
Dont devour me all at once, dearest. Save some for the wedding night.
Night?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
144
His long smouldering look told her he had an entirely different time of
day in mind. She only hoped he wasnt going to simply ravish her right in
the midst of the cake and champagne. The vision of him doing so set her
afire, and he laughed as he saw the slow heat creep into her face.
Believe me, I am thinking about it. But Id never do anything to
embarrass you in front of your guests. Well, not unless I couldnt absolutely
help myself, he added apologetically.
I cant tell you what a great comfort that is to me, she drawled.
Seriously, though, I promise if my little friend gets too clamorous, I
shall think arctic thoughts, and give you a signal to leave.
Surely well be standing together?
My dear, you can get the rise out of me from a hundred feet away with a
thousand people separating us.
She giggled. Im sure youre exaggerating.
Im sure Im not. So this is my signal. He put his hand to his lips as
though suppressing a smile.
All right, if you say so.
A tap at the door heralded Hopkins with a tea tray. Come!
If you please, sir, everyone is most anxious to see you and Lady Isolde
at last. I do think you should partake of some refreshment and then emerge.
Randall nodded. I shall. Five minutes.
They sipped the tea and had a mouthful of toast.
Nervous? he asked softly.
A bit, but only because of what Mother will say, not because Im
marrying you. And there are the Clarences to worry about as well. And the
ceremony. I mean, weve had no rehearsals or
It is a simple enough ceremony. I did take the liberty of setting the order
of service, though, when you were tending to Mother yesterday, and your
sisters will help as bridesmaids.
You are most kind.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
145
Only the best for you, my darling," he said, kissing her hand. "You dont
know what youre in store for with me as husband. I need you in the worst
way on every level a man can ever need his wife. But I promise I shall try to
make you happy.
Thats more than enough. More than many women have. More than I
could ever have expected from Howell.
He grimaced and stood up. Amen to that. Now come, darling, our guests
and solicitors await.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
146
Chapter Fourteen
Randall was the picture of calm as he met the rest of his in-laws, who
stared at the pair of them wide-eyed.
Her mother was a dignified woman with chestnut hair; he could see
where Isolde got her looks from, and guessed he would be happy watching
his wife grow into such a marvelously regal woman.
Her two sisters were adorable little sprites, and he smiled warmly at them
both and wished he had known Isolde when she had been so young and
charming.
But of course, she was infinitely more wonderful fully grown, he
reflected, recalling the way she moved under him as though every gesture
were designed to enflame him.
Randall led the family into the study, where the solicitors had gathered.
There he made a more than generous settlement upon his wife, having her
proclaimed heir to fifty percent of his estate along with any other children
they might have. He set aside the same portions as before to each of the
eight children in his care, and some lesser bequests to family and friends
also stood as before.
He also added two pre-nuptial clauses. Isolde stiffened as he declared his
intention to do so, but he said, The first is that if Im ever unfaithful, Isolde
may get a divorce free and clear, with a generous settlement for her lifetime
which will still stand even if she were to remarry. The second is if I ever
physically harm Isolde in any way, she is to have the same.
She stared. But darling, I could lie or
He shook his head. I trust you. I need you to trust me.
His solicitor Mr. Brown drew up all the papers as asked, and they both
signed them. Thus far her mother had said nothing, for which Isolde was
very grateful.
Now she asked to speak with her daughter alone. Isolde was surprised
she had not done so beforein fact, she was taking the whole thing very
calmly indeed.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
147
She shut the door behind her to the small drawing room with some
trepidation, waiting for the axe to fall.
But her mother only said, I just want to be clear that youre not too
scared about all this. I mean, youve already got over the wedding night part
of it. As for the marriage, it will be very much as you make it.
Isolde expelled a relieved sigh. I half expected you to protest that I had
taken leave of my senses.
Her mother shrugged one shoulder and sighed. This is sudden, theres
no denying it. But hes had his fun, and you dont seem to be too unhappy
with the way things have turned out. And why should you be? Hes an earl
and a very handsome and virile young man.
"But I know you, especially the fact that you have a good heart. You
arent marrying him for material reasons, and he needs you. If you arent
already in love, you soon will be. You just need to love and trust him.
She smiled at her mother. I thought I was the one with the Second
Sight.
She smiled back. It may have skipped generations, but that doesnt
mean I cant see certain things, sense them. Hes been a wretched man
without someone to love, someone who loves him for himself, flawed
though he is. He needs you, and you need him. You are weak separated.
Strong together.
I know about the children as well. You have no reason to doubt anything
hes ever told you. You do need to decide though what sort of family life
youre going to have. London is all very well and fine, but youre a country
girl. He has an estate he rarely visits. Did you know that? Down in Somerset.
Brimley, to be precise.
Isolde's heart gave a little leap. Brimley?!
Yes. Fate, destiny, call it what you will, you need to go soon. And take
the children with you. He needs his family, love. Hes so alone. And if
anything were to happen to you, he would be devastated.
She stared at her mother as her eyes came back into focus and she smiled
pleasantly and asked her if she had everything for the wedding.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
148
Her mothers strange spell was gone as suddenly as it had come, but it
left Isolde shivering with fear.
Brimley. Philip and his wife Jasmine had offered them a house there
when their family fortunes had taken a downturn. But if her mother said
Brimley, then to Somerset they would try to go.
Randall meanwhile had spoken to Fanny Clarences father, and the older
man was inclined to allow the young people to marry so long as they could
reassure him they were not acting hastily.
Stephen pointed out, We've known each other from the cradle. We're
still young, it's true, but I doubt we can be accused of undue haste.
You're very good friends, but marriage is entirely
Er, yes, but the truth is we both know a little about the nature of
relations between men and women, and Fanny knows her own mind. Please,
do let her wishes be taken into consideration. I know you've promised her to
Chauncey Howell, but please do ask her again what she wished.
Fanny confirmed in a moment that she loved Stephen with all her heart,
and so the double wedding took place in the large green and gold chamber
without further ado.
Isolde's sisters had been coached by Jonathan Deveril to help with the
readings. The handsome sandy-haired greeted everyone warmly, and had
brought his charming blond wife Pamela to help celebrate the occasion.
Delighted, my dear Randall. Couldnt be more pleased. Just wait until
all the other Rakehells hear the wonderful news." He turned to Isolde now.
"Many congratulations, my dear. Weve heard so much about you from
Philip and Jasmine, and my sister Sarah, that my wife and I feel we know
you already. You do a wonderful job at the clinic by all accounts. We really
do hope the two of you will be supremely happy.
He was all smiles, without the least trace of disapproval, and she relaxed.
Even if the circumstances of the wedding were unusual, and she was
supposed to be in mourning, no one said a word as they took their places in
the large bay window.
They began the ceremony with Genesis, Chapter 1, verses 26 to 28, The
Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and keep
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
149
it. Then First Corinthians, Chapter 13, Verses 1 to 13, If I speak in the
tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a
clanging cymbal. Her mother read First John, Chapter 4, verses 7 to 16,
Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is
born of God and knows God.
Isolde thought she would hesitate over her vows, but with her hand in
Randalls, his deep, resonating voice as he repeated his own vows without
hesitation, was enough to convince her that somehow, by a strange quirk of
fate, this was meant to be.
For though she had met him less than forty-eight hours ago, she adored
him. Maybe it was the simple stirrings of her loins too, but he did the most
incredible things to her simply with one smile or look with his eyes. Isolde
had no doubt she would pay the piper on the morrow, but for now, she
would be happy.
She was deeply moved as she listened to the words from Corinthians,
Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or
rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it
does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things,
believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.
Randall surprised her by asking to recite one final passage himself, the
Song of Solomon, Chapter 8, verses 6 and 7.
Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is
strong as death, jealousy is cruel as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a
most vehement flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods
drown it. If a man offered for love all the wealth of his house, it would be
utterly scorned.
He kissed her hand, and she reached up to stroke his cheek and smile.
They concluded the ceremony with a hymn, Love divine, all loves
excelling, and then the vicar pronounced them man and wife, and Stephen
and Fanny as well.
She stared for a brief second at the gold and diamond wedding band
winking on her finger, and then he took her lips in a soul-stirring kiss.
Everyone began to applaud.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
150
She accepted his mothers warm wishes, and she was touched to see him
kneel by the bed and have his mother stroke his dark hair.
Be happy, son.
I will try to be, Mother. But the past travels everywhere with us.
Yet you have a bright, shining future if only you will embrace it, my
dear boy.
I dont deserve it, he murmured.
You feel like that now, but in time, youll see you do. Everyone does.
No crime, no matter how great, carries a complete life sentence. You can
find peace within, Randall.
Im going to try, he promised, his eyes filling with tears. What was it
about Isolde that made him feel as though he could weep with joy just
thinking about their life together?
Isolde came over to his side and placed her hand on the top of head in a
benediction of her own. He turned slightly and buried his face in the apex of
her thighs. She started, stunned at the intimacy of the contact.
He took a long, slow sigh, as much to relax as to delight himself with her
feminine fragrance, and she could sense the change in him instantly.
His arousal was so apparent as he looked up at her, one cheek still
pressed against her mound, that she blushed and bent to raise him to his feet.
She stared at him in awe as the sexual tension between them shimmered
almost palpably.
He stepped back and kissed her hand. He took her left hand in his own,
and stroked the diamond and gold band on her finger. It was a gesture of
unmistakable possession, and for a moment she wondered if she ought to
feel frightened of his evident declaration of ownership. Yet as she gazed up
at him, she knew a peace so powerful that she kissed his fingers out of sheer
joy and gratitude.
He blinked in surprise. Then his mouth swooped down upon hers, kissing
her until she was breathless with desire and delight. At last he lifted his lips
and said, Come, my darling wife. I find I simply cannot wait until the
wedding night.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
151
But what about our wedding guests?

In the immortal words of poor Marie Antoinette, let them eat cake. I
have a different dish in mind. And cant wait to feast upon it.
Her new husband swung her up into his arms to take her to his room. Her
family, realising they were making their escape, pelted them with wheat
kernels and then turned the whole focus of the celebration to Fanny and
Stephen, who longed to do exactly as Randall and Isolde had done, but were
much too conventional, shy and inexperienced to ever dare.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
152
Chapter Fifteen
In the privacy of Randalls blue and gold chamber, he undressed his new
bride slowly, reverently, taking his time over each piece removed in order to
caress each newly-exposed body part with his lips and hands.
Finally Isolde was completely naked, and he laid her on the bed and
stroked his hands down her several times, loving the lush and voluptuous
sweep of her skin from shoulders to thighs.
Not fair. Youre still completely dressed.
I rather like the idea of you being this delicate naked nymph, locked in
my room, kept completely bare only to service me, cater to my every whim.
Is that the little love game youd like to play now? she asked softly,
finding the idea of this fantasy both unsettling and exciting.
I had rather a different one in mind, in which you got to give me the
orders, well, instructions about what pleases you, he confessed with a slow
grin.
Seeing you finally naked would be a good start, she said pointedly.
I know, but at the moment its my only line of defense from taking you
hard and hot in about two seconds.
She spread her legs now. And what if thats the way I want it? she said
with a challenging smile.
A tremor shook his him from head to foot, so powerful it made him close
his eyes and sway briefly. With my clothes on? Or off.
On, so we dont waste another minute, she ordered, opening her arms.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
153
What position?
You on top of me, with me like this, she said, sitting up and moving
her bottom to the edge of the bed. He reached for her breasts but she shook
her head.
And no touching unless I say so. Just you right up inside me, as hard as
you can manage until I beg you to stop.
His brows shot upwards and he could hear the blood pounding in his ears.
Hmm, getting rather good at the games yourself now, arent we?
Again, its part of the whole virgin fantasy, isnt it? The forbidden fruit
which shouldnt be touched, but tastes all the sweeter for being stolen and
secretly enjoyed.
Except that everyone at our wedding reception knows exactly what
were doing, he said with a broad grin.
Or will be, as soon as you hurry up and get your chap to come out to say
hello, she said, reaching for him.
Your wish is my command, darling.
His huge manhood pulsed out of his clothing, and with one glide he not
only filled her, he brought her soaring to fulfillment.
Oh, I did so need that, she panted.
I know, he said through gritted teeth. So do I.
Then let it go.
No, I can bring it back down to a simmer and start again if youll just
give me a minute, he said, holding very still inside her.
But her flesh was restless around his huge length, and she ran one hand
down his back to his buttocks and squeezed them both, massaging the hard
globes until he exploded.
A moment later she was rolling him over onto his back and began to
undress him, eager for all of his bare flesh next to hers. She stripped his
trousers down with only a feeble protest from him, and that died as she
began to nuzzle her cheek against his crisp hair.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
154
He reached around to clamp his large hand on one of her silken thighs,
and with both hands he positioned her over his head and began to lap at her.
Whats this? You need another bath, darling. Lets just see if I can get
you cleaned up.
She giggled, and allowed him to roll her onto her side, and they brought
each other to the brink of climax.
Come inside me, please? she begged.
With pleasure.
His distended flesh filled her until her breath came in desperate gasps.
Randall, please...
Tell me what you need.
Harder. Short strokes, then long. Oh, just there. Ahhh!
He watched and reveled in the sensation as her body tensed, vibrated, and
at last collapsed, and he finally granted himself his own cataclysmic release.
Oh, thank you. That was so wonderful.
Mmm, I know. You have the most gorgeous breasts and feminine parts,
the most sultry tongue. He ran his hands over her worshipfully, raising
himself over her body to rub her bud of desire with his thumb as he began to
move inside her again.
Oh, darling you cant possibly want more!
I most certainly can. After all, if I cant make love to my wife all night
on our wedding night, when can I? He began to nibble her nipples.
Look how lovely and dainty. How perfectly they fit into my mouth.
How eager they are. How eager you are for me. I cant tell you what a thrill
it is to have your eyes glow so when you look at me naked. And theres
nothing more arousing for a man than a woman who adores eating him.
Except one who also swallows. The ultimate male fantasy. Nothing worse
than a woman who makes that or lovemaking seem like a chore or sacrifice.
She stared at him, her cheeks reddening becomingly as she grasped all he
was telling her. A chore? Hardly. Everything about you excites me. I find
you delicious in every way. The taste of your entire body, your smell
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
155
everywhere. But its all so strange. I mean, I have no idea whats normal, or
even what you like about my body.
He grinned. The answer is everything. And I want to know what you
like, fulfill your every desire. Do you like that? He was stroking down each
side of her most sensitive mound.
Mmm.
And that? he asked, stroking the sides of her pearl of pleasure, then
circling it.
Mmmmmm.
He withdrew from her body slowly, and she opened her eyes and looked
at him in confusion. Where are you going?
To make us more comfortable. And I have another little game for you.
She licked her lips nervously, earning herself a ravishing kiss. Did I
forget to mention how much I adore your lips, your mouth and kisses,
Isolde?
He laid on his side and put his head on the pillow, then patted the bed for
her to come lie down next to him. He kissed her again and then said, Spread
your legs.
She did so, and he curved the fingers of his right hand into her flesh, one
finger on her rosebud, the other two poised on one of her lips and one right
at the entrance of her core.
Im going to hold my hand perfectly still. You move. Take what you
need.
Oh, no, I
Go on, itll be fun.
She soon began to wriggle her hips, and it took ever ounce of self-control
for him not to dive into her lush body anew. He kissed her, and their torrid
tongues mated in a dance of their own as she circled, gyrated and at last
massaged him to his own completion as she took hers from him.
Oh, you were right. That was fun, she breathed.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
156
Only fun? he asked.

Afraid he was disappointed, she said, Well, more than fun, but less than
the incredible zeniths you drive me to inside of me.
Good, Im glad. I want you to be satisfied. Dont be afraid to ask me
anything, and above all dont be afraid to tell me if youre worried. Theres
nothing to be ashamed of, either desire or fear.
In that case, she said with a purr, rolling onto her side with her back to
him, I wouldnt mind trying you behind me again the way we did before on
the table.
Gladly, he said with a grin, handing her a pillow. Put that under your
stomach, and prepare to be even more dazzled.
And she was.
Chapter Sixteen
But Randall's joy at being married to Isolde was tempered with sudden
grim reminders of his past with the unfaithful Clarissa. He didnt know if it
was because his feelings for Isolde had dredged up the past, though he was
sure that he had never cared one iota for Clarissa compared with what he felt
for his new wife.
Perhaps it had been seeing Howell again as well that had caused him to
start thinking of all he had done so long ago. As Randall lay dozing in a
haze of post-coital bliss, he dreamed....
He had come home from college for a surprise visit, and seen Francis and
Clarissa in the barn together. He still felt the rage now, which had made him
storm up to his brother's chestnut stallion and saw jaggedly through the girth
strap before running off back to Oxford like the coward he was.
He imagined his parents and other brothers devastated faces as they had
gathered around the family vault, felt the crushing sense of darkness, his
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
157
own evil. Plus the relief that he had never had to see Clarissa again, and his
hope he would never ever have to look into the face of the bitch who had
betrayed him.
She was there, her blond hair spread like her legs, her blue eyes cracking
with something unfathomable? Passion, desire, cunning....
Then his brother was there, handsome, dark-haired, with blue eyes like a
storm-tossed sea. One worm wriggled out from his eye socket, and the mass
of putrescent decay dissolved into a flood of red. The horror now too much
to bear, he sat up screaming and sobbing.
Francis, no. Im sorry. Oh God, Im so sorry!
Isolde clutched his juddering shoulders, cradling him against her bare
bosom until he couldnt help himself and his welter of emotions fused into
one mass of need and desire to flee the haunting images. He scarcely even
noticed Isolde was shaking as well. She had seen what hed seen in her own
dreams.
At first she had wondered where the appalling images had come from.
Now she was sure, and felt a cold chill envelope her soul. She almost
resisted as he moved between her thighs, but he begged, Oh, Lord, Isolde,
help me, please. Love me.
I do, she said, despite her doubts and fears swirling within, and
accepted him whole, body and soul.
She could still see the black and red auras around Randall, but knew her
strength would be more than a match for them if only she could love him
without conditions or fear. It was the hardest lesson for anyone to learn, she
knew. To give up ones body in marriage was truly to give of ones self.
But give she did, driving him on with her tenderness and sensuality until
he held poised within her so tensely he was sure his spine was going to
crack.
Then he was plunging and diving, and she thrust her hips up fiercely to
meet each thunderous stroke. Isolde offered her body up like a sacrifice to
his driving need. In return she was granted the blessed peace of complete
and utterly breathtaking fulfillment, and rode the wave of pleasure with the
man Fate had most surely sent her to rescue from his darkest despair.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
158
An hour later, Isolde managed to swing her trembling legs out of the bed
to ring the bell for some refreshment. She put on her dressing gown, issued
her orders to the maidservant, and went into the bathroom for a moment.
She scrubbed her flushed face with cold water, and turned on the tub
taps. When she had completed her brief toilette she heard a rap at the door
and went to accept the tea tray from Hopkins.
When she turned to face Randall to see if he was still drowsing, he
avoided her look and said flatly, We need to talk now, Isolde. That
dream I feel like Im being ripped apart. I want you to let me speak first,
and then you can ask questions. Otherwise I dont think Ill have the courage
to go through with telling you my sorry tale.
She went to turn off the water in the tub. Returning to the bedroom, she
brought two cups over and set them down on the bedside table, and then sat
facing him at the edge of the bed. She stretched out one hand to him in a
gesture of support. He took it in a tentative grip, and traced her fingers
lightly with one of his.
He shivered, and then began his sorry confession.
I never dreamt I would have a wife, for the simple reason that I never
imagined I would ever find a woman I could ever tell the entire unvarnished
truth to. Or ever trust. But youre special, Isolde. I knew it from the moment
I touched your hand. Please believe me when I say I want to tell you the
whole truth, and please dont be angry with me for doing so. I want there to
be complete honesty within our marriage.
Ill try to understand whatever it is you wish to tell me. Its about the
visions Ive seen, the dream you had, isnt it?
He nodded, and plunged. Isolde, I need to tell you about my fiancee, my
family. Its not a pretty story. I did a terrible-
The loud hammering on the downstairs door caused them both to start.
Randall bit off an expletive. He might have known things were going too
smoothly with their wedding and wedding night
"Randall, what on earth?"
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
159
"Trust me, all will be well. We'll talk when I've done with our er, visitors.
Just get back in bed where it's warm."
She could tell by the look on his face that he was worried. "But don't you
need me to--"
"It will be fine, I promise."
He was already up and struggling into his clothes. He wrapped his
discarded dressing gown around her and planted a kiss on her brow. She
shivered with the contact, and the warmth of his body which still lingered
upon the garment. Stay here, unless I specifically send for you.
But Randall-
He was already hurrying down the hall, for Hopkins had opened the front
door at last, and he could hear intruders clattering in.
He ran down the corridor and stopped short at the top of the stairs when
he saw who his visitors were. Philip Marshall, a tall, young bookish-looking
man, Howell and Parkins all entered.
Howell immediately started up the stairs.
Now Howell, you said you wouldnt do anything hasty! Philip called.
He was not unduly alarmed, however, for he had seen a much younger
Randall best everyone in school whom he had ever fought with. Fortunately
it had not been often. He was a gentle man, an artist, but huge, and often that
was more than enough provocation for a small man to try to have a go at
someone his size just to prove something.
Howell launched his fist at Randalls head, but he ducked nimbly,
grabbed the arm, and twisted it up behind Howells back before frogmarching him down the stairs and into the small blue drawing room.
Would you mind telling me whats going on? Randall asked when he
had flung him into a chair.
Thats what Id like to know!
Why are the four of you here?
Because you have impugned Miss Drakes honor, and must be dealt
with.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
160
Miss Drake? he asked coolly.

Howell looked confused. Dont you dare pretend
There is no longer any Miss Isolde Drake, but Isolde Avenel, my wife.
Philip tried to restrain a smile, and failed utterly.
Is this a joke? Howell hissed.
permitted
Her family would never have
Randall replied coolly, Since they are all upstairs, all attended the
nuptials, and in fact are still at the wedding breakfast in the large upstairs
rooms my mother resides in, you may ask them yourself.
I dont believe it. She was pre-contracted to me. Youve tricked her in
some. Drugged her. Debauched her in the most depraved You cad!
Howell shouted, ready to take another swing at him.
I wasnt aware that telling the truth constituted being one.
Ill have to call you out for what youve said and done.
Are you not listening to him, man? Philip said in exasperation. Hes
done nothing to the girl. You cant call out a man for marrying his own wife!
Isolde is fine. Stop making a fool of yourself, Howell, and lets go.
Im telling you, she didnt know what she was saying, doing. There was
blood everywhere. She's a respectable aristocratic woman, not some trollop.
Hes deceived and harmed her, and he shall pay one way or the other.
In what way, pray tell, do you wish me to pay? Ive already married
her.
Philip and Isoldes cousin Dr. Herriott looked at each other knowingly.
And when did this wedding take place? Howell demanded.
This morning, with the whole of her family as witnesses, Randall
maintained. They're right upstairs. There has been no trickery, no coercion
or compulsion. We're in love and she married me of her own free will.
You are a liar! She was mine!
Was is the operative word. But she tells me that you were the one who
threw her over because of her sudden change of financial circumstances, and
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
161
she has chosen to marry me, so clearly any responsibility you might have
concerning her is at an end.
"I shall ignore your impugning my veracity on the grounds that you
evidently feel you have a prior claim and are concerned for her welfare.
Believe that I might have harmed her. But she is fast my wife, her full
consent freely given, the marriage consummated.
I wish to speak with her family, now.
Philip asked Randall, If thats the only way hell be satisfied, do you
mind?
Randall rang the bell. Of course not. Hopkins, please ask my wife to
come here, and conduct all my in-laws to the main drawing room. Tell
Isolde it is just a little misunderstanding, nothing to worry about.
Isolde came down a few moments later, clad in nothing but the dressing
gown, her magnificent auburn hair flowing down her back in complete
disarray. There was no need to guess what she had been doing recently.
As soon as she entered, Howell jumped to his feet, and her cousin
Antony choked.
How nice to see you again, Isolde, Philip said smoothly, and moved to
take her hand. Married to Randall Avenel? How on earth.
Gentlemen, my wife, Isolde Drake Avenel. I believe you know all these
gentlemen, dearest?
Yes, of course. She nodded warmly to everyone except Howell.
Randall turned to Isolde. Darling, can you please tell them about our
wedding?
She stuck out her hand to indicate the wedding band, and then told them
of the ceremony, giving them all the pertinent details. And Jonathan
Deveril performed the ceremony. I can provide chapter and verse if you
like, she said, the sarcasm evident in her tone.
There now, are you satisfied, Howell? Dr. Herriott demanded.
Theres obviously been some mistake, he said, his face like granite.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
162
Yes, and you made it, Isolde said angrily.

Well, sorry to barge in like this, Randall, Philip said. Howell came to
us, said Isolde was in a dreadful spot of bother, and needed our help.
Yes, so sorry we missed the wedding, Dr. Herriott said with a warm
kiss for his cousin. Youre all right physically? I mean He blushed as all
eyes turned to them.
I'm fine. A very happy new wife. I know all about conjugal relations.
No harm done. And no need to look so sheepish. You were just making sure
all was well. But really, Randall is a most tender and considerate husband.
And Stephen is married too, to Fanny.
Congratulations. Wonderful news," Antony said, though Howell's eyes
bulged at the news and he looked as though he was about to choke. "Im sure
youll both be very happy.
We shall be indeed, she said with a broad smile.
Philip looked at her closely for a few moments. Randall had certainly met
his match in this feisty young woman.
Ive tried to protected Miss Drake and her family, but I've evidently
come too late, Howell gritted out, and strode from the parlor, swallowing
his ire for the moment, but already beginning to formulate other plans to tear
the couple apart.
They were wed, true, but there was such a thing as scandal, divorce, and
widowhood...
Dr. Herriott shook Randalls hand and went out to speak with Stephen
and his other cousins.
Philip was about to follow, when he turned to address them both. One
day you shall tell me how all of this came about. Especially you, Isolde,
when you were supposed to be heading down to Somerset with us. But for
now, be happy, and be very careful. Howell was hell bent on getting your
fortune and you into his bed. Im afraid hes not going to let this rest.
"He'll have to. There is no fortune with Father gone, and I love Randall.
He tried for Fanny's fortune next, but she loves Stephen. Whatever plans he
had have been thwarted."
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
163
"He may not take so practical a view."

Let him come. Im ready, Randall growled.
She looked from one man to the other, but neither of them said another
word.
Philip bowed, said he would convey the news of her marriage to his wife
Jasmine, who would no doubt be thrilled, and then he tugged Parkins out of
the door after him, leaving Isolde and her husband alone once more.
What was that all about? she asked in confusion once they were gone.
Randall shrugged. Howell trying to get you away from me. Have me
challenged to a duel once more. He must have known Stephen didnt rise to
his bait yesterday and tried to get Antony's and Philip's ire roused, which
believe me, can be considerable for the right cause.
I see.
"But in this case, they could see we are well and truly married, and there
was no need to defend your family's honor."
"There wouldn't have been in any case even if we were not wed. I knew
what I was doing when we first made love. I made the choice of my own
free will."
He kissed her on the cheek. Thank you for saying that, and for your
help.
She shrugged on shoulder. I just told the truth.
Still, you were very brave. I dont know how you ever tolerated Howell,
though. Hes always made my skin crawl.
Always? she asked in surprise. How long have you known him?
Randall grimaced. Forever. He lived near our estate down in Somerset.
He's a distant relation, you see, always hanging on our coattails. And he was
my brother Franciss best friend, though no one could ever understand why.
They were so different. Francis was never vicious. Well, not before he began
to consort with Howell, he added.
She could see the flashback swirling in his head. Oh, God, no, she
whispered.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
164
She stepped back from him, horror and pity warring in her breast as she
saw almost from two sides a dark man and blond woman writhing together
in a stable in the throes of the most bestial passion. One image was wreathed
in black and red, the other in black on black, like a silhouette. Then there
was a flash of lightning, and she began to run from the room.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
165
Chapter Seventeen
Darling? Randall shouted after Isolde, and bolted for the door himself
in hot pursuit of his wife.
Randall gripped Isoldes hand to stop her from fleeing, and settled her
down in a chair. "Come here, my love, pray calm yourself." He pressed a
glass of Madeira into her trembling hands and made her drink every drop.
What did you see? he demanded, his own hands starting to shake when
he saw her white-faced terror. He could not have felt more guilty if he had
struck her.
She shook her head and nearly wept.
I love you, Isolde. Please believe me when I tell you that I won't let my
past harm us.
How can you say those words, Randall, after what Ive just seen?
I had my reasons, dearest."
"Reasons?" she gasped, shaking her head. "What reason could you have
had to"
He gripped her hand hard. "You need to know the whole truth, now. I
was about to tell you everything, you might recall, when Howell came to try
to take you from me.
She yanked her arm away from his suffocating grip.
He stopped himself in time before he blurted out the truth in a way which
was only going to damn him even further in her eyes. Please, Im going
about this all wrong. Come upstairs and Ill-
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
166
No, dont touch me! she exclaimed in horror. What kind of man had
she married?
Randall took the hand he had raised to comfort her and ran it through his
hair in frustration.
Please, dearest, youve had a terrible pair of shocks. Youre not dressed,
you might catch a chill. Youve hardly slept for two nights, and youve been
through heavens only know what with your father dying, and Howell
throwing you over and then importuning you to become his mistress.
"Please, come upstairs and lie down. Ill tell you the whole truth, no
matter what. You can ask me anything. I shall tell you whatever you need to
know to make this right between us.
Isolde wanted to run out of the front door and keep on running. But she
was married. Married to whom, exactly? A rake was bad enough. But from
what she had seen, he wasnt simply a rake, he was a murderer....
A man many women had been prepared to risk everything for. She had
been rather pleased with herself to have snatched such a gorgeous, virile,
wonderful man out from everyones nose. Pride certainly went before a fall.
Now her marriage was a nightmare, his declaration that he wanted to make
her happy, couldnt live without her, a sham. She who had been virgin, and
given herself willingly because she had cared, thought he needed her. But
how could she ever hope to help him? And did she even want to, knowing
what she now knew about his past?
She paused on the brink of flight. If she ran out the front door, things
might possibly end up even worse than they already were, for she had no
doubt that her reputation would be ruined and that of her entire family. And
Howell would make her suffer for this one way or the other. But so could
this man, this stranger she had married. If he had killed over a woman once,
he could do so again.
But if she ran out the door, she would have no answers, only more
questions.
She looked up at Randall and saw that lost bleak look in his eyes, the
strange red and black flicker which hovered around him. Despite herself, her
heart turned over. Maybe he had perfected the look, the better to seduce his
numerous women. But for her, it was a silent plea she simply could not
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
167
ignore. She stretched out her hand to him.

All right. Come. Lets go upstairs.
They walked slowly up side by side, she feeling unutterably weary, he
dreading what was about to come. She settled back in the bed as before,
wrapped in her dressing gown. This time he brought up a chair by the bed to
face her.
I need to tell you everything, from the beginning.
All right. Please tell me, she said, trying to school her features into
some semblance of calm.
He recounted his early tempestuous courtship with Clarissa coldly, with
detachment, as if it didnt matter. But it did...
So I came down from Oxford for a surprise visit, and headed out to the
stables to go riding with Francis. That's when I caught him with her. They
never knew I saw them. I ran like the Devil was after me. I was sick in the
woods, and burned for revenge.
"So I got it. I went back to where his favourite horse Blarney was
standing, and cut the girth strap. Sawed through it raggedly, rather than a
clean cut, in order to make it look like it was worn. He took a jump and was
killed. And Ive hated myself for murdering him over a faithless whore ever
since.
Oh, good Lord, she sighed.
I dont know if thats all you saw, but its the plain, unvarnished truth. I
killed my brother.
She sighed. Im not sure. I saw a lot of red and black. I saw a darkhaired man, which I had guessed to be you, and a more sandy-haired one,
and a blond woman.
It sounds like the three of us, though Francis was actually raven-haired
like me.
Isoldes eyes widened. She was sure the man had had sandy hair She
could be wrong. The light was shadowy. Early spring?
It happened in February, didnt it?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
168
He gaped at her. Yes. But how did you know. The second of February.
She shuddered. Ten years ago. Ten years to the day they had met, she
realised with a jolt. Full circle...
And you, er, youve never allowed yourself to love since? she asked
quietly.
He shook his head. If you could call it love. But no, I never felt I was
entitled, I who had stolen my own brothers life away. Even hers, for I think
as faithless and horribly immoderate as she was, she did love him in her own
way.
"She eloped with someone else though, as soon as he was dead, so I can
never be sure. She never even came to the funeral. It was only after they
were gone that I realised with the benefit of hindsight what they had been up
to all along. But they looked, well, happy at the time. Like they belonged
together. Which was what made it rankle all the more.
He paused and sighed, and they sat together silently for a time. You are
saying nothing. Would you like some tea or something?
She was saying nothing because her mind was whirring wildly. All he
had done, all he had suffered. Something had gone badly wrong if a man
like this could have been brought to such desperation and anger.
But all this had been years ago. Why was she seeing the black and red
swirls? What did any of this have to do with her? Why was he telling her all
of it now?
She pleated the sheet nervously, at a loss as to what she could possibly
say. He might have been better off keeping her in the dark. This could not be
an easy thing for him to admit. And she was not so sure she really did want
to know what a foul thing he had done after all.
But then, all the visions had kept telling her the story, pointing her
toward the truth all along. And the fact that she needed his help. It was just
too strange. It had never happened like this before. Some people she had
known for years and never been able to read, others, after a week or so. Why
Randall, a complete stranger? And why did her heart beat so fiercely every
time they were in the same room?
She shook her head and managed to say in a calm voice, Go on with
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
169
your story. I need to know how it ends.

He looked at her in surprise. That is the end.
No, it isnt. Youve been in that stable ever since. Death lurks there.
And your life and love has been frozen behind glass ever since. So what did
you do next?
He leaned back in the chair, looking more defeated than any man she had
ever seen. I didnt live up to my potential at Oxford. Got drunk and began
to swive like a sailor, though at least I knew enough to avoid the pox. And
Ive been preying upon eager women, and hiring professionals looking for
the ultimate titillation ever since, he admitted with a sigh. And here it
comes walking in the door, straight into my arms. He sighed and rubbed his
chin.
She stroked his hand reassuringly. Go on. Youve come this far. You
can tell me the rest. How bad can it be?
He stood up and poured a glass of water. He drank for a time to try to
steady himself, then refilled the glass and sat back down. She accepted it and
drank, knowing it was only a small gesture to show she was not repelled by
him, but better than nothing.
Actually, she wasnt sure what she thought. All he had told her was
beyond anything she could have imagined. How could so much despair and
unhappiness be concealed behind so handsome a face?
I feel like Ive destroyed my whole family. All my brothers are dead
now except me. It's like, well, like I unleashed some sort of evil Fury to
harm them. I envied Michael being eldest. I wondered what it would be like
to have my fathers power. But I never
His tone was so anguished, she simply had to take pity on him. I believe
you. She kissed his hand. Go on.
He let out a shaky sigh. So one by one theyve been taken from me,
until theres only me and Mother left, and now shes slipping away. And if
she does, I dont know what Im going to do. I feel like death is stalking me,
Isolde. Like that one angry act of youthful folly has left me open to having
everything I care about stripped from me. Having a title and power is
marvelous, as is having so much wealth, but it doesnt keep me warm at
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
170
night. It doesn't make me laugh, or my heart sing.

It was no wonder she kept seeing the red flicker. Here was a man who
had been wounded and sinned, as she had seen. Who had been touched by
death. Was that the black aura? Or was it something more?
I understand. You dont need to upset yourself by trying to convince me
you do care, Randall. But we need to decide what were going to do about
it.
I dont know what to do. All of this has happened so suddenly, meeting
you, us marrying. I want to have a bright future with you, but I feel, well, I
just feel like I'm being sucked down into the quicksand of the past. I don't
have any answers, my love. All I know is I need you, Isolde.
She sat up on the bed and stared at him, unable to believe what he had
told her. It was just too awful to contemplate what a huge mistake he had
made. So our marriage is nothing more than some sort of act of
redemption? Is that why
He shook his head. No, of course not. There are other reasons!
She rolled out of the other side of the bed, and Randall rose to stop her
from leaving with an outstretched hand.
You need to hear me out. Im not finished yet!
I think Ive heard quite enough for the moment!
Unable to get out of the room, Isolde skirted past him and fled into the
bathroom, and slammed the door.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
171
Chapter Eighteen
Randall gave Isolde time to collect herself. He felt emotionally drained,
and the last part of his explanation was going to be the hardest. He was eager
to see her, but bursting down the bathroom door after he had just confessed
to killing his own brother was not the way to get them to trust you.
He simply had to be patient. He knew she would have to come out sooner
or later. She could not get out the window, and had no clothes in there at the
moment even if she could.
The truth What was it? He wasnt sure even now. All he knew was he
had wished for a wife to love, a normal life, and she had entered his life only
moments later. It had to be a sign. He had not been able to keep his hands off
her, stop thinking about her, stop the joy singing in his heart every time they
were together or he thought of her.
After about ten minutes she came out, her eyes reddened, but dry, her
hair pulled back, the dressing gown clenched tightly about her throat and
tied securely at the waist. She took the chair in the corner, sitting on the edge
of it as though about to bolt at any second if he so much as came near her.
I think we had got to the part about you fearing the loss of your family
and wanting redemption. So I am to take it then that you married me so I
could be your helpmeet, save you in some way?
Yes. And to save you too, from Howell. And to save Fanny from him
also, and help your brother.
She fixed him with a hard stare. Are you sure you dont just want
revenge for the whole fracas regarding your father?
He sighed heavily. I would be a liar if I said no. But your fathers dead,
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
172
and you were not responsible for what happened to mine. No, someone gave
your father those papers to incriminate mine, and I will find him out. If
youll help me with my mother, I can focus on being a good earl, and
uncovering the truth at last. I cant do it all myself. It would break the back
of a stronger man, let alone a sad sorry bugger like me.
Well, I was the one who came her wishing to apply for the role of
nursemaid.
He nodded. In point of fact, the interviews went ahead as scheduled.
Hopkins interviewed the other three ladies who came to apply the day after
you arrived. None of them are as good as you, but if you want me to take on
one of them
And dangle a few more eligible females in front of my rakish husbands
nose? No thank you, she sniffed.
I have no idea what they look like, but I can ask Hopkins to let me know
if any of them looked like a po-faced cow if that makes you feel any better.
No, thank you, she said stiffly. I shall tend to your mother myself.
Good. You were my first choice of candidate for the post.
So delighted to hear it.
And first and only in the matrimonial stakes. The truth is that Ive never
ever experienced anything in my life, in my mind, heart or body, compared
with what weve shared. Its a sign, Im sure of it. I told you that before. I
could either go on in my career as a rake and swive myself into Hell, or I
could take what you were offering me.
She shook her head and laughed shortly. What could I possibly have to
offer a man of the world like you?
He sighed. The one thing in the world I dont have, which cant be
bought or stolen or bargained for. Love. Your love for me, and mine for
you.
You tell me all this about Clarissa and how much you loved her, enough
to kill for her, and now you want me to love you? she asked in disbelief.
When put like that it sounded insane even to his ears. He shrugged. Why
not? After all, I didnt know you that night you first came here, yet was
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
173
already half in love with you by the time Howell ever showed up screaming.
Completely in love with you by the time the morning came, and I found the
bed beside me empty. I dont know what I would have done if I hadnt
caught you before you left. Raced down to Surrey to make you my bride.
Torn England apart looking for you, I have no doubt.
This is madness! How can you ever expect me to trust you? Esteem,
respect you after what youve done?
What exactly are you referring to? he asked in a dangerously low
voice.
He expected her to say many things, but certainly not her next words.
Allowed someone as worthless as Clarissa to shape your whole life?
Almost ruin it? Continue to ruin it even now by driving you to all sorts of
madness and folly as a rake, a gambler even?
He gazed at her in awe, hardly daring to breathe.
She wasnt worth it. No person is! Not even your own brother. You
made the one mistake, allowed your jealousy to rage, and look what it cost
you!
Gods above. Was it possible? She didnt judge him, hate him? Wasnt
revolted by him?
Isolde got up from the chair, and he had all to do not to run and snatch
her hand to keep her from leaving.
Where are you going?
Where Im needed. To tend your mother, she said in a quiet, controlled
tone.
T-t-t-thank you, he stammered, incredulous. How on earth could she be
so calm? But perhaps you shouldnt
Why not? she asked impatiently.
I dont want you to. To be exposed to her madness and
Some women and men arent given the luxury of a sheltered life, she
said with asperity. I was, but worked at the clinic to learn. You werent
given a sheltered life either. Im a big girl. I can manage just fine with your
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
174
mother. She lifted her valise.

I want to protect you, Isolde.
She laughed bitterly. I think its far too late for that now, Randall, dont
you? I need to have the truth, however unpalatable it might be. Will you
promise me that, at least?
He hesitated.
You said you wanted to be completely honest, Randall. So that means
about us being a family. My sharing the burdens, however bad they might
be.
She wrapped the dressing gown around herself tightly and left the room,
leaving him little choice but to follow her as she headed down the hall.
She spoke to his mother in a low tone at some length, trying to ascertain
the source of her discomfort and symptoms. So far as she could tell at the
end of the conversation, her grief had turned her in upon herself, and she too
seemed to be tormented by nameless doubts and fears.
Always at the center of her blue aura was a tall, dark-haired man. The
centre of her love and her fear. And Randall was there too, flickering. And
another tall man with piercing blue eyes? Another of the brothers? A past
love?
She rose from her chair, inspected everything without saying a word, and
then turned to Randall at last. I think I can help. The doctors have been very
thorough, but they are also traditional. Bleeding, purging, enemas. Its
weakened her and her mental state has left her unfit to cope.
Whatever you think, please do it.
I should like to have my cousin Dr. Herriot, Antony, to come see her.
Certainly. Another opinion would be fine. He is no doubt still with your
mother downstairs, and I shall invite him for supper.
Thank you.
She returned with him to his room, and sat on the edge of the bed facing
him as he resumed his chair. And there is one more thing we need to talk
about. Our marriage. Your view of it.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
175
Yes?
You think me a nurse, evidently. Do you still think me a whore? A loose
woman, for having given in to you so repeatedly?
He longed to touch her, to kiss her and make it all better, but he simply
spread his hands in a hopeless gesture. Neither, not after the first kiss, I
swear. There is no shame in loving and being loved, if its mutual. Did you
feel shamed and embarrassed at the time?
No. I didnt, not until the morning when you she gestured. In broad
daylight. I was a bit shocked. No one had ever seen me naked before, let
alone. She shook her head. But it was lovely. I wasnt shamed. I was
only worried that I wasnt doing things right, not for an experienced man
like you. Or that I wasnt beautiful.
It couldnt have been more right, he said sincerely. And I could never
despise you for the generous gifting of yourself to me. As for beauty, you
stun me every time I look at you. I cant believe youre real.
How many other women have you done those things to? she asked
quietly.
He paused to consider. The obvious part, the intercourse itself, all of
them when they were willing. If they changed their minds, we might do
something else. But not like you, for hours, over and over. Fifteen minutes to
a couple of hours. I wasnt a person to them, just a piece of flesh, a conquest,
and I admit I thought the same of them. I usually couldnt bear listening to
them prattle longer than that. End of story, and the less said about it for both
of us, the better.
The refinements, play? Your little games? she demanded, crossing her
arms in front of her chest.
He shrugged one shoulder and shook his head. Them doing it for
money, perhaps a few. For the sheer pleasure of seeing them enjoy
themselves, none. For a whole night and morning, in broad daylight, never,
ever. Not even all night. Not even more than an hour or two. In most cases I
never even bothered to take off all my clothes.
She looked daggers at him. So that was what your most recent display
for our wedding night was all about? Finding out all you had been missing?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
176
Dazzling me with your prowess? Trying for a baby over and over again to
set your stamp upon me?
No, I swear! I was trying to concentrate on making you completely
happy.
He saw her look of disbelief. I want intimacy, not a quick quiddle,
Isolde. That means getting to know all of you.
Thank you for your honesty, at least. I cant even imagine
What, exactly?
Oh, not the sordid details. The incredible control. People think you a
libertine, but you had no real freedom to even enjoy yourself with all of the
self-imposed restrictions. No sleeping with them, no gifts. Always using
protectors. Never making love in the day time. Youve been as much a
victim as the women youve used.
We used each other, thats all. I love you.
How can you be so sure? she asked angrily. You thought you loved
Clarissa.
Because you came to me, gave yourself to me with no thought for
anything other than my pleasure and your own. No ulterior motive, no
money or power. I mean, you didnt do it thinking I was going to give you
the job, now did you?
She frowned and shook her head. No, quite the opposite. I was sure the
sooner I left, the better.
He stroked her shoulder tenderly. So you were there in bed with me that
second time because you wanted to be. Because you trusted me. I cant tell
you how moved I was, or how aroused.
She blushed and gave him a timid smile. I was there. I remember the last
part. I couldnt keep my hands off you. Youre a most magnificent man. I
was exceedingly aroused too. But how am I any different from all the other
women who wanted to enjoy you for your body?
He smiled at her lovingly. As soon as I saw the wonder and the
tenderness on your face, I wanted to be with you, with no thought of
selfishness or anything other than pleasing you.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
177
"Once I knew for certain that I had erred, I was shocked. I admit I was
angry with you for not stopping me, and I suspected for a very short time
that you might have been in league with Howell to discredit me. To
blackmail me in some way. Especially with your talk of visions, your
seeming to know something about what happened in the stables.
"But I was so glad I had made that bet and my error, for you were indeed
so remarkable I couldnt have stopped even if Id wanted to. Well, not unless
you got up and left.
I remember, she said with another smile despite herself.
I remember too. He winked. You didnt get up, even though you had
the chance, for which I shall be forever grateful. I have the chance to change
my whole life with you. Its a chance I would be a fool to throw away. Now
a whole new vista of possibilities has presented itself. My life is like the sky
after a storm. Drab and dull one minute, bedecked with a soaring rainbow
the next. Breathtaking. His eyes were now bright and shining, and she
smiled.
Im so glad.
He took her hand and kissed it. I never dared to dream like this before,
not since I was small. I want a real marriage, Isolde. I know nothing about
love, intimacy, but Im willing to try, to do anything you want if it will
please you.
Anything? she challenged, stepping away from him.
Anything except let you leave me without giving us some sort of chance
to try to have a good marriage.
What makes you think that I know anything about being married! she
exclaimed in exasperation. I was never even kissed properly before last
night. I dont know what is normal, expected. What you did to me last
night She flushed and looked away.
What about it? he asked calmly.
Is it normal? Dangerous? Am I going to be a good wife? How can I be
enough for you when youve cavaulted half the Continent? she asked,
thinking of all the livid women in the shop when she had been buying her
wedding gown.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
178
He winced. I give you my word, it will all work out.

Her lips thinned. Im sure many women who have married rakes have
heard the same thing. Between that and what youve already told me about
Francis, you can surely understand why I might be fearful of you. Have
some doubts about what youre saying, Randall. You dont love me, after
all. We are strangers for all intents and purposes. Why should I, how can I,
trust you? Even people who say they are in love can be cruel.
I have never raised a hand to a woman, Ive told you, he declared
indignantly, start up from the chair now to pace in front of the marble
mantelpiece.
You didn't raise your hand to your brother, now did you?" she pointed
out waspishly.
"For which I've damned myself ever since!" he fired back.
"Besides, there are other forms of cruelty, like mockery, degrading
someone, breaking their spirit, being unfaithful and casting all their hopes
and dreams back in their face"
"I'm sorry, Isolde, that you're so fearful of being married to me, but I wed
you in order to protect you. I give you my word"
"And its easy to say you wont hurt me when youre so much bigger
than me. How can I be sure-
My marriage settlements. I wanted you to be sure! I offered them up of
my own free will, you know I did. He ran his hand through his hair in
frustration, making himself resemble an indignant hedgehog.
She paused in the face of his obvious dismay, trying to gather her reeling
thoughts. That is true. But this is so vast an undertaking. I cant agree to be
your wife if I cant be sure of anything, Randall. I dont even know if what I
did last night was of my own volition, or if you just manipulated me.
Seduced me as you did so many others. Tricked me somehow.
Did it feel like a trick? he asked gently, stepping over to her cautiously.
Any of the times weve been together?
No, but
He sat back down in front of her. And the second time, when you agreed
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
179
to stay, you most definitely wanted me.

Aye, that I did. She smiled gently as she reached up to smooth his
spiky hair.
And the other times?
She leaned forward and admitted with a sigh, Yes, all the other times.
You touch me and my mind empties, my body ceases to be my own. It
becomes, well, it becomes yours, to bend to your will!
And that frightens you? he asked softly, his eyes never leaving her
face.
It terrifies me. You look at me like that, with those eyes of yours,
Randall, so wistful and longing, and I want to believe you when you say you
care. I want to believe you when you say you want salvation from the empty
life youve had.
"But Im so confused. My heart tells me one thing, my mind another, and
my body still another, she admitted.
I can guess what your mind tells you.
That you are a practised seducer, willing to say whatever he needs to in
order to get what he wants. A rake, and not to be trusted, she said promptly.
And your body? he asked with a slight smile.
She gave him the truth. That you are a rake, that you know what pleases
me even before I know it myself.
His smile grew wistful at his recollections of last night. Not quite true. I
was pretty fascinated by your response. I really had no idea. And I want to
find out more, if you will trust me, let me learn how to love you. Not
selfishly, for my own reasons, but generously, to make you happy. I never
even knew I was capable of such delight until I moved inside you. It was
nothing short of miraculous.
Ill have to believe your words because you say you only want to tell me
the truth. But I dont know that its something that I can ever be sure of.
What does your heart tell you, my love? he asked softly.
She sighed. I saw it last night, on your face.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
180
Saw what?
Need, desperation, despair. I saw- She shook her head.
Go on, tell me.
Youre bathed in red and black. All around you. But I dont know what
it means.
You saw it when? he asked quietly.
When you looked at me, when you were inside me, she said, blushing.
I have a fleeting impression of it a few times more later, when we were,
well, with each other. You know.
Making love, he supplied.
I dont know. Copulating, swiving, rutting, she said angrily.
His brows shot up in surprise and dismay. You have quite a vocabulary,
my dear, no doubt acquired from Howell. But why dont we try something
closer to our truth. Enjoying each other, assuaging, comforting -
Comforting, she snorted. You make it sound like a slipping on a set of
flannel undergarments.
He grimaced at the comparison and shook his head, groaning.
Oh, sorry, that came out completely wrong. I meant like, like putting on
a nice warm muff-
The colour flew to both their cheeks and he laughed heartily.
She giggled, and then sat on the bed closer to him. Good Lord, it was
easier to do it than it is to talk about it! But I think you know what I mean.
Comforted was most certainly not what I felt.
He stroked one finger down her cheek. Well, I did. But only because
you were so warm and soft and loving. Not hard and grasping and selfish.
I was selfish. I took whatever you gave, with no thought of what you
were getting in return.
You asked me how to please me because you genuinely wanted to. No
one had ever done it before.
I just wish I could be sure. But youve made an art out of deceiving
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
181
people. Perhaps this is your ultimate revenge.

He frowned. What is, Isolde?
Making me fall in love with you, the better to hurt me further down the
road, when Im in so far I could not draw back even if I wanted to.
Were married. Youre already in pretty far, he pointed out softly.
Her eyes flashed fire. Was that part of the plan? To make sure that I
would be in so far that I couldnt leave? Are you going to lock me in and
have your way with me, force me to remain with you by fair means or foul,
until youre done with me one way or the other?
He shook his head. I admit I wanted to make sure you couldnt leave,
Isolde. But only because of my absolute conviction that we belong together.
I couldnt bear to have you walk out of my life, for your family or Howell to
try to separate us. But if you really hate being my wife, there is always our
marriage contract. I offered you that of my own free will.
Aye, there is that, she conceded.
I know full well youve made a bad bargain, my love. Im damaged
goods. Embittered, haunted by the past. But that doesn't mean I can't be
trusted. That I cant be a good husband, and father.
She put her head in her hands and groaned herself. Oh, Lord, please, not
that. Not now. I can barely even take care of myself, let alone
Ill take care of you, no matter what you decide.
She rolled her eyes in disbelief, and tugged her hand away from his
grasp. Theres that word again. Just what sort of choices do you think I
have given weve just been married?
Many different ones. This marriage can be what we both choose to
make it, if youre willing to meet me half way, at least. I've confided in your
about the children, for example, and while I would be thrilled if we had one
of our own one day, it is for you to decide.
Meet you half way in a marriage? What a novel notion."
"I mean it."
"Where? In bed? Out of it? she asked angrily.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
182
Everywhere, and every day. I have no experience of that kind of

relationship myself, but I know my parents loved each other and tried to do
their best to be accommodating.
But thats just it, she said, rolling her eyes in exasperation. How can
anyone know? Who would ever think to look at you, all you had been
through? Appearance often masks reality.
Ive trusted you, Isolde, told you everything, he insisted, reaching for
her hand.
Then tell me what you want from me as your wife, she demanded.
He stroked her fingers delicately, as though he were afraid he might hurt
her. A chance to love you, and make you happy. To be happy myself, he
declared simply. He kissed her hand, then put it in her lap, and spread his
own hands wide. "I am as you see me now, having confessed all to you. Do
with me what you will, Isolde, for I can't go on like this, and nor can my
poor mother."
She gazed into his eyes for what seemed an eternity. At length she
nodded. Very well, then. For all our sakes, Im going to try to make a
success of this marriage. But youre going to have to be patient with me.
He sighed in relief, and smiled. Resisting the temptation to try to kiss her,
he said, Tell me what you want. Anything you want will be yours for the
asking. You wont regret this, Isolde, I swear.
Only time will tell.
He reached for her to kiss her, but Isolde stepped out of his reach. She
longed for him with every fibre of her being, but she couldnt put herself
into his hands, his bed again until she was absolutely sure.
I said I would try. But you cant rush me, not after the things youve just
told me. I had a long trip, Ive not slept. I need to spend time with my family
as well, see what they want to do. Im really very tired. Id just like to get
into bed, and rest. By myself, she added for emphasis.
I want a separate room made up for me. It is after all something most
couples possess. I dont want to have one forever, but I need time to think.
To adjust to the huge change of now having to share my life with you in
every way."
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
183
"I've hurt you physically, haven't I?" he said, looking near tears.
"No, no, not at all, Randall. Please dont look so wounded. I'm fine. I
really am very grateful for all your help with my family and, well, saving me
from Chauncey Howell. But I need some time alone. And time out of bed, so
you can't keep dazzling me.
But you will talk to me, let me see you? he asked hopefully. Let me
kiss you at least?
No. Please, dont. She backed up until she reached the far wall. I cant
let you. All you do is confuse me.
He moved over to the bed and fluffed up the pillows, and took the
coverlet down to the foot of the bed. Then he pulled back the sheets and
stepped away.
Very well, Ill go get you some tea myself, and tell the servants to make
up the room next door with everything you could possibly wish for. But for
the moment, please, take my bed, our marriage bed. Lie down and rest. I
promise not to take advantage.
She got in the bed and pulled the covers over herself, suddenly feeling
incredibly cold. Everything she had seen, heard, seemed to close in on her.
It was all so incredible. The visions had been so strong. Especially that
last one. She had never imagined.
Her heart went out to Randall again, but she could not afford to be weak.
Other women had been, and that had been their downfall. No, she had to
hold herself aloof, while she got to know more about her new husband. His
kisses, his amorous embraces, were far too distracting. She already knew
him as a lover; she needed to know Randall Avenel as a person.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
184
Chapter Nineteen
Randall came back to a short time later with a piled tea tray, and some
books.
Would you like me to read to you while you lie down? Mother used to
do it for me when I felt poorly.
Some other time. My head is throbbing from lack of sleep.
Oh, yes, of course. He moved to close the shutters. Ill blow out the
candles then, shall I?
Leave one.
Of course, my dear. Is there anything else you need?
No, thank you, she said wearily.
All right, Ill leave you alone then. But still he hovered anxiously.
She looked up into his worried face. Whats wrong?
You promise not to run away?
To whom? My family have all approved of you, she said with some
rancor. "And it's only through your offering financial assistance to us all that
we even have a roof over our heads still."
He shook his head and sighed. No, I mean, not because you have
nowhere to go, but because you want to stay.
I promise I wont run. I am no craven.
May I ask you one more thing?
Yes, she murmured.
May I kiss you, just once? I find myself missing you already.
All right, she sighed, already nearly half-asleep.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
185
He tried to restrain himself, but every time his flesh was near hers, she
sparked him off, enticing him to the point of frenzy.
He groaned and let his tongue press forward, and soon he was kissing her
as passionately as he had done before he had made his dire confession.
Oh, Isolde. he gasped.
Randall!
She allowed herself to give in for a thrilling moment, until she realized it
might just be one of his tricks, him trying to get round her again.
She shoved his shoulders hard. One kiss. Now out! And dont you dare
try to melt my resolve again.
I wasnt trying to-
Out. Now.
He sighed, but he did as she asked. Ill see you later. For supper. Rest
please, dearest.
He went to find his wedding guests, and asked Dr. Herriot to assess his
mother. He hovered anxiously in the next room as the young man examined
her carefully, and pounced on him eagerly as he entered to wash his hands in
the basin.
Well?
A nervous affliction, some sort of crushing sense of guilt, and being run
down from her grief and all the poking and prodding the other doctors have
been doing.
That was my wifes assessment as well. He smiled slightly, amazed at
the huge surge of pride those simple words filled him with.
Isolde is a good woman, very adept. I think your mother will begin to
recover well if you just trust her. At least I hope the Dowager Lady
Hazelmere will recover physically. Her feelings of loss are another matter
entirely.
He nodded. I know. Sometimes it just feels so crushing.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
186
But it helps to talk about the departed. Keep them all alive in your
heart," Antony advised.
Randall felt his flesh creep. "Them?"
"Its not just the loss of your father and brother. Its the rest of your
family, isnt it? I mean, Im not a full part of the Rakehell set, but I
remember many of you above me at school and
Randall nodded and sighed. Yes, those were happy times. A lost
innocence that can never be replaced. And now Ive stolen away your
cousins as well, damn me for a swiving fool.
Yet many a good woman has been the making of a foolish man. Ive
never cherished Isolde in that regard, but if you dont mind my saying, her
father was too damned noble for his own good, trying to marry her off to a
distant relation like Howell just because they frittered away their own
fortune and pressed for it.
"Howell has had more chances than most other men in the world and hes
squandered them at every chance. I hear whispers about him from amongst
the women in the clinic which really made me fear for her."
"Aye, I've heard similar. He's a distant cousin of mine as well, you see."
I couldnt intervene on her behalf, but assumed once her father had died
that she would have a reprieve due to the customary two years of mourning.
She's a devout girl with a great deal of family feeling. I had no idea Howell
was trying to force her to become his mistress until Stephen told me just
now. Damned bad business. All I can say is, shes made a lucky escape, and
thank you. Not least because youve had to overlook what her father did to
yours. Not that it was ever personal, but-
At Randalls scowl he quickly changed the subject.
In any event, I trust you to do the right thing by Isolde. In turn you can
be certain that she will see your mother well as soon as possible.
Thank you, Dr. Herriot, for trying to put my mind at ease on a number
of points.
Call me Antony, please. And do call any time if you need my services.
Or I can recommend Blake Sanderson if he is in Town, or his friend Dr.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
187
Gold.
Its good of you to offer. Yes, I know Blake of old, of course. He was
with Father after the Well, Mother called him in. Another Rakehell,
though Ive not seen much of him since he came back from the war and got
married.
Anyway, thank you for the suggestions, but I think Ill trust Isolde for
the moment. She seems to have done much better than any of the other
arrogant fools who have come here to poke and prod.
And if I might suggest an Indian healer as well? My friend Eswara
Paignton Jerome sometimes returns to London for supplies. All Indian
medicine is based on balance, and the healing power of touch. You might
learn something from her too. Isolde has met her, finds her fascinating.
Hm, the healing power of touch, eh? That might explain the uncanny
effect she has upon me. At the young doctors blush he said quickly, All
she has to do is hold my hand and I feel such peace.
Im glad. I think she feels the same about you. She was certainly
glowing today at your wedding, the happiest Ive ever seen her look.
Randall sighed. Thank you. Im going to do my best. But Ive been a
terrible rake, and Im not sure I can make her
Antony patted him on the shoulder. "No one makes another's happiness.
You share it."
"I hope in time I can be certain she has no regrets about marrying me in
such a manner."
"Even if she ever did, Isolde is no quitter. She has strong principles and
passions, which Im sure carry over into her personal, more intimate
relations. You have no cause to ever doubt her fidelity, Im certain. Nor her
honesty. Shes fiercely loyal and protective of those she loves, and will
make an admirable mother in time.
Im looking forward to it, and dreading it as well. For then I shall never
have her to myself.
Hmm, you wont anyway with your mother. And I believe there are
children?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
188
Yes, but they are in the country and I had not thought
Antony grinned. You mark my words. Isolde does nothing by half
measures. Prepare to have your life transformed.
At Randalls warm look, he added, Even more than it already has been.
Isolde wondered at the complete transformation in her life as she lay
staring up at the canopy. She had had a short, refreshing nap, but the longing
to see her husband again was almost more than she could bear. It was like
the ache of a lost limb.
She told herself to stop being so absurd, but the nagging sensation
persisted no matter how much she tried to tell herself all was well, that he
was no doubt just down the corridor, and she could get up and see him in a
moment.
But her languid limbs seemed locked to the bed, and with some sense of
shame she stroked her stomach, pressing it. She could still feel the imprint of
his body on hers. She tried to tell herself this was wrong, that she was a
wanton who should never have done one half the things she had. But it had
been so blissful....
Randall popped his head around the door a short time later, and smiled
broadly when he saw she was awake. She moved her hand away from her
tingling flesh with a guilty start.
Did you sleep, dear?
I did. But, well, I missed you.
Im glad to hear it. He came over to the bed and got in on top of the
covers, swearing inwardly that he was going to try to exercise a modicum of
restraint. I was with Mother and Antony. He said the same as you, rest and
care, and no more cupping and purging.
Good, Im glad, she said, snuggling down next to him.
Listen, Isolde, I just wanted to say thank you for everything. For me, my
mother, and for marrying me. Youve been magnificent through all this.
Im no saint, Randall. And I certainly made a dreadful mistake that first
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
189
night.
No mistake. One touch and it was mean to be. Cant you feel it?
Im not sure. It was like a magic spell, but no, that wasn't what I meant
about a mistake either. She sighed. I mean about letting it go too far, and
never having stopped to think about the consequences for us all. But the fact
is, I knew what I was doing. I could have stopped at any time. I just wanted
you so badly, one taste left me begging for more.
He nodded. And you also didnt walk out. You had every chance to
leave when I got up to have a drink.
Youre right. I thought about it, but I decided I didnt want to leave. I
was in too deep even then. I needed to know what happened next.
I see. Thank you for telling me that. I feel much less of a brute now.
She gripped his hand hard. It wasnt my intention to make you feel like
one.
Still, you have to believe me when I say I dont make a habit of
despoiling virgins. I only went to bed with one once, and she never ever told
me she was until it was too late. It was dreadful for her and me.
You dont have to try to keep reassuring me that Im special. I do feel it,
else you never would have married me, would you?
He nodded. But its true. Ive never experienced such uncontrollable
pleasure. Or even any one I wanted to spend more than an hour or two with.
Very few ladies, for more than a second or two, until you. Even then, I could
resist them. But I could never, ever resist you. The fire in my veins. He
rubbed his eyes for a moment, and then pulled himself from the bed.
Ive asked for a light repast to be prepared. Should I have someone
bring it up here, or would you care to dine downstairs at table?
I think Ill rise. I might as well see the rest of the house instead of just
this bed, she quipped with a light-heartedness which she didnt quite feel.
She wrapped his dressing gown around herself tightly, and he indulged
his passion for her with a few sweeping strokes of the hairbrush which put
the blush back in her cheeks.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
190
He took her hand and led her out of the room before they used the table
again for their delectation. Just what was it about his touch that drove her so
wild?
Once downstairs, she tried to keep her attention on the meal. But the
warmth of his eyes, the sound of his voice, the sight of his strong, lovely
hands as they expertly worked the cutlery, filled her with the most lascivious
thoughts. The champagne bubbled through her, and she had some interesting
visions of the use she could put it to.
His eyes lit up and his brows waggled suggestively. Yes, it can be fun.
Would you like to try?
Before she could respond he was beside her chair. He had taken a
mouthful of the wine and now he fastened his mouth over hers and let it fizz
into her mouth. Her nipples surged upwards almost painfully, and the velvet
of the robe pressed against her peaking womanhood.
Mm, she groaned, swallowing the wine.
His tongue glided in, the bubbles still upon it, causing her to shudder
uncontrollably.
Her knife and fork dropped to her plate with a clatter, but she tried to
keep her distance from his importunate embrace by planting her hands on his
shoulders. Im sorry. I just know so little of these things. About men, and
women, and even my own body.
Or the power you have over me, he admitted with a shaky laugh. I
think we need to discuss something mundane like the weather before I find
myself getting any more heated than I already am.
Hopkins brought a large platter of vegetables to the table, and both of
them could not resist looking at the parsnips.
They looked away with a guilty start, and she laughed. Goodness, Im
seeing all sorts of things I never saw before.
You innocence is well and truly gone now.
Ive lost my paradise, she said with a sigh.
I hope you gained a new one.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
191
She met his gaze openly. I did. Whether the price I have paid by biting
the apple is worth it, I cant tell. Not yet, anyway.
I shall try to make it more than worth it, if youll let me.
He was looking at her so longingly, she blushed.
Eat your dinner, and stop staring at that plate. He winked.
This must be most unusual, she said. Feeling desire for you all the
time, even when Im doing something so ordinary as eating.
Not really. It is just a different kind of hunger. Women are often
described in terms of food. Honey, sweet, tasty. Toothsome, as the old
codgers say.
And men?
Im sure we could be, but Ive never had anyone tell me that, rarely ever
do that without wanting to be paid. He mimed, and she nodded and looked
away.
She said shyly, I thought your skin was wonderful. Youre delectable.
You, my dear, are delicious, every part of you. Just thinking about it
makes me sparkle like the sun.
She stared at him wide-eyed, recalling what they had shared.
In case I forgot to tell you at the time.
She felt painfully embarrassed and directed her attention to her roast
chicken once more. Please, Randall, can we talk about something else? It
may be important to you, a large part of your life, since youve been such a
rake, but it does no good to dwell upon it. We need to learn more about each
other. The things that really matter.
This overwhelming passion between us does matter, a great deal. I can
tell you about all the unhappy couples as a result of thinking what happens
in bed doesnt matter. But youre right. Let me ask you about yourself. I
dont even know how old you are.
Twenty in October. But I need to know more about you, Randall. Can
you tell me of your childhood, if its not too painful?
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
192
Not painful, no, but it makes me so sad at times to think of how much
Ive lost.
He told her his recollection of their trips to the seaside when he was
small, their magnificent horses, parties, searching for tadpoles. Boyhood
pranks. School at Eton. I was a real scholar. I loved words, literature, Latin
and Greek. Loved Shakespeare. I studied classics, but, well, things fell to
pieces and it was never the same after that.
Im so sorry.
Michael joined the army, took Robert with him. Robert was killed
January 1812. I never saw Michael again, though I wrote to him, tried not to
lose him. Father said he would never forgive him for going off to war and
leaving behind all his responsibilities as a peer of the realm, and luring his
younger brother to his death.
"I tried not to take sides. I knew Robert was his own man. I was closest to
Michael despite the gap between us and the other boys in the middle. He was
my best friend in a lot of respects. Im just so glad I never had to face him,
tell him what I did.
I can only imagine," she said with a sigh. "What was your relationship
like with your fourth brother?
Mark? We were closest in age, very different in temperament. He was a
simple soul. Bookish, though not very bright, handsome, but not flamboyant
like me or Michael. Very uninterested in anything other than living up to my
fathers expectations. He had hoped he would have a career in politics like
his own. Michael was the heir until he was killed April 1814. From then on
Mark was groomed to be the perfect Earl of Hazelmere. Except that he died,
and my father was horrified to think that me, the rake of the family, was now
in charge."
"Oh Randall, I'm sure not"
"You're very kind, but its the truth. Michael was remarkable, Francis as
well, Robert and Mark would certainly have done a dashed sight better than
I ever could."
"That's your natural modesty talking, darling," she soothed, stroking the
back of his head.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
193
I did try my best, but I fear I was a disappointment to him. Oh, he never
yelled or said anything, but he used to just get this faraway look in his eyes
sometimes and I swear He choked on a mouthful of food and actually
spit it out into his napkin, too distressed to swallow.
What? she asked softly.
After a time he admitted. I swear sometimes he didnt even know who I
was. I think he might have believed me to be Michael. Apologised for his
mistakes, for being harsh. But he never was with me, only with my brother.
I see. Im so sorry.
Then I lost even my father.
She put down her cutlery then, all pretence at eating at an end. Yes, I
have to admit Im really not clear about what happened there. I should have
thought after everything I would be the last woman on earth you would want
to marry.
There isnt much to understand. You father accused mine of having
fleeced the investment bank which he had become involved in, along with a
few other partners whose names I have not been able to get the solicitors
who set up the partnership to disclose. But we're talking thousands of
pounds. I cant even begin to conceive what he could have done with the
money. He was always most moderate.
Many people have secret lives, debts
Randall shook his head vehemently. Im telling you, my father never
gambled, was never careless. All of my family had to suffer the
consequences of your fathers determination to ruin my father politically,
he said angrily, putting down his cutlery and taking a long drink of water.
He exposed him publicly, when he could have simply gone to the
authorities and had the matter investigated thoroughly out of the harsh glare
of the Towns censure.
I have no idea why he didnt, except if the evidence was so compelling
that he felt he had no choice.
Randalls lapis eyes glittered darkly. I expect you to defend him, but
please dont do so in front of me. My father came home, laid down with a
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
194
fierce headache, and never woke again. The apoplectic stroke took him in an
instant, without any of us even having had a chance to say goodbye.
Im so sorry.
Not half as sorry as I am. So now I am the Earl, with all the duties and
responsibilities Ive always shirked, a house full of children in the country, a
sick mother, and a wife who despises me for being a killer and a rake.
Dont say that! Never, do you hear? she gasped. And certainly not
where you could ever be overheard and harmed as a result. And your raking
is a part of the past now. You have me, and you have your vows and our
marriage settlement to remind you of your duty even if I cant
He scowled furiously. Dont be silly. I dont need reminding. Why
would I want to be unfaithful? With all the women Ive tried? None could
compare. Why risk losing you for an unattainable fantasy?
Were there so many women that you can be so sure theres no one else
in the world but me?
He shrugged. Enough. I paid attention to them as I would the buzzing of
a flea. Ive never needed or desired so thoroughly any woman until I met
you.
Needed? In the sexual sense?
Yes. And others. Like someone to share the bath with, shopping, dinner.
The way you make me feel when you take my hand or stroke my cheek.
She leaned forward to do so and he sighed. Thank you. May I?
He raised his hand palm upwards, and when she nodded, he moved it to
cup her cheek lightly, then returned to his meal.
Thus far she could still see no signs of insincerity. Wounded soul, yes,
liar and rake, no. But it was early days yet in their marriage.
He encouraged her to eat more, and kept up a fairly steady stream of
childhood anecdotes as they finished their meal.
At one stage she could not resist pointing out, But these are all the
happy times from childhood. You would have lost them all anyway. You
were eighteen when all of this happened, your brother almost full grown at
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
195
what, twenty-one or so?

He nodded. He was four years older, at twenty-two.
So it would have been lost to you anyway.
But not dead, he said bleakly.
You cant be sure! Disease, another accident, any number of things
could have taken him off.
He slammed his cutlery down onto the table, all pretense of eating his
meal at an end. Im sorry. Ive had enough for now. Can we please talk
about something else?
Very well then, your life now. How do you usually spend your time?
In the morning, my mother, then my toilette, riding, visiting, shopping
for books. In the afternoon, my mother, then reading, watercolors, trips to
see friends in the country, keeping up with the newspapers, writing letters to
them. Donating my time to certain worthwhile causes, including chimney
sweeps and prevention of cruelty to animals, the anti-hunt group, and so on.
Also rights for women, and protection for prostitutes. Prison reform. And
public sanitation.
Isolde was astonished, and quizzed him. She found he was not
exaggerating, or trying to trick or flatter her. They really did have the most
similar opinions, even if he did not consider himself to be a Radical. He just
felt it was common sense, though his father would have debated with him
until they were both blue in the face. It was a relief for Randall to converse
with someone who did not want to undermine his arguments all the time, or
make him feel nave because of his beliefs.
So he really was a Rakehell. Well, a former good friend of theirs until he
had become a man of the world. He was a good man, and she was sure he
would make a fine Earl once he got over all his self-doubt.
It was clear he needed her help, out of bed even more than in it. It would
be a heavy burden to bear at times, but Isolde had broad shoulders and a
strong back. She had not been raised to be a shrinking violet by her parents.
She was still a bit nervous about his selfish motives in marrying her, but she
had no right to judge Randall. She was getting an awful lot out of the
arrangement as well, she and her family.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
196
But nor would it be easy to trust him, given all that he had done in the
past. And given that he had admitted he had never spent more than a couple
of hours with the same woman, and might easily grow bored.
The meal was lovely. Thank you, she said when they had finished their
dessert.
Would you care to sit in the drawing room for coffee? I promise not to
do anything of which you would disapprove.
She searched his face for a hint of irony, but found none. After all, it had
been where they had been discovered by her brother only the morning
before.
He offered his arm and led her into the room. He seated her at the desk
and placed some portfolios on the desk.
Investments, trains, coal, the Potteries. He laid them down one by one.
Nothing exceptional. My emoluments for the people in my care, including
the children, as I have told you. He also placed them on the table. She gave
them a long look, understanding that he was asking for her help.
All of my charities. My main one is a clinic for fallen women, to be
precise, in the East End, which was founded by Dr. Blake Sanderson.
Then it's the same as the one I trained in.
He nodded. I thought so. So your cousin has been running it since
Blake moved to the country with his wife?
Yes.
So that is how you know all the Rakehells and Philip?
Yes, thats right.
Philip was a noted rake until he married Jasmine, Randall observed
quietly.
I assure you, hes been a good friend, no more. He and Jasmine. You
have no reason to think
I know you were a virgin. I just cant believe you are heart-whole.
She smiled softly. Im not any more. Youve taken mine captive. Only
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
197
you can heal it or rend it asunder.

He put her hand on his own breast now. I shall tend yours if you will
tend mine.
Gladly.
She rose from the chair, feeling hot, sweet desire bubbling up in her veins
as she thought of how well and truly he had loved her in the very chair she
was sitting in now.
Im going to look in on your mother and lie down again now, but I shall
see you later?
Yes, of course. Are you sure you would not like a tray brought up?
No, I'll come down if I want anything."
So long as youre up to it.
Yes, Im fine.
Would you like me to get some tickets for the play or-
She shook her head quickly. It's a lovely idea, but not tonight, no. I think
we both have a great deal to contemplate, discuss.
I dont know what else I can tell you, but I will try.
In that case, just some quiet time would be good. If my new room is
ready Ill go in there. And if you could perhaps send out for some
embroidery things? I find my mind settles itself more when I have
something to do, and I finished my last piece of work in the coach coming
here.
May I see it?
She looked surprised, but nodded. Yes of course.
They went up to his mothers room first, but she was sleeping soundly.
They returned to his own chamber. Isoldes reticule lay on the dresser, and
she took out the exquisite handkerchief, with dainty vines and leaves.
My, your work is superb.
Thank you. I shall gladly make you something if you like. Or embroider
your shirts.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
198
I wasnt hinting.
Im offering. Its what wives do, after all. She smiled shyly.
He gazed at her, the heat of his gaze scorching in its intensity. I can
think of a few more things I would rather you did with those clever fingers
of yours, but I have the feeling I mustnt overdo things. And I know you still
dont trust this incredible thing between us. So theres no need to look so
reproachful. Im just being honest. I adore you. But you shall have whatever
you wish. I shall tell my manservant to buy out the stores silks.
Oh, dont do that. Just some basic colors. The unusual ones can be so
hard to match.
Very well, my dear. He showed her to the room next to his, which was
resplendent in white and gold.
Oh, this room is lovely, she said, looking around in awe.
It suits you. Serene, peaceful, pure.
Isolde blushed. Not so pure now.
He put his arm around her. Always to me. I cant tell you how I felt
when I saw you really were a virgin. Guilty and thrilled all at once. Aching
to possess you again, yet livid with myself for having been so stupid that
what I thought was a whores trick turned out to be the real thing.
Yes, I didnt understand what you meant about relaxing my muscles.
He whispered in her ear and she blushed more and more red. Oh, surely
not.
If you practice, Im told it is most definitely possible. Milks a man dry
like a cows teat. But I would never expect
No, I never said you would, she replied hastily, all the while her mind
awhirr with the sensual possibilities. If she could control the incredible
spasms she had felt within her, could she too...
Believing her to be upset at his mention of such a thing, Randall decided
he had better leave her alone as he had promised. I shall see you later.
Please rest.
He closed the door. The metallic rasp was like an arrow through
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
199
Randalls heart. He longed for her so, it was all he could do not to burst back
into the door and beg her to let him into her exquisite body, her heart, her
beautiful soul.
He went back to his mothers room to see to her needs, and gave his
orders to the servants for a fine meal to be prepared for the whole family.
Randall forced himself to read, and then went to his room to survey his
wardrobe and dress with care. He wanted to select something that he hoped
his wife would find him handsome in.
He flashed himself a predatory smile in the mirror, then asked himself
what on earth had he been doing, thinking? His mind set was still one of a
rake; he had been doing whatever he felt, with no thought of the
consequences.
Isolde was not to be treated like yet another conquest. She was supposed
to be an equal partner in life. Clarissa had jilted him, true, but it was his own
fault for allowing the depravities of the world to contaminate him until he
thought they were an accepted part of his life.
Isolde had shown him pure love and devotion. She had opened the bars of
his prison of corruption. Now that he was free, what was he to do with
himself?
He wasnt sure, but as he assessed his appearance in the mirror once
more, he decided he would try to never do or say anything of which Isolde
could not be proud.
He could be honest with her, but she was his wife and had to be accorded
esteem and respect. He had to make sure he was not too crude, that she was
not continuously reminded of his past with other women.
There was a difference between what was natural and beautiful, and what
coarse and vulgar and degrading. If she asked questions, he would be
truthful, but he would never ever speak of it again of his own volition. Being
a rake was his old life. Isolde was his new.
A new life he was determined to make the most of, to atone for all his
terrible sins
Red, dark, fire, flames.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
200
Randall collapsed into a chair, his head in his hand. Oh God, what was he
to do.
Isolde, help me, he pleaded silently. Save me, my love
Then his world went black.
Don't miss the continuation of Randall and Isolde's romance in Innocence

Afire, coming soon from HerStory Books.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
201
Authors note
All of my novels start out as questions in my head. This pair of novels
came about as a result of my wondering what would happen if an
unsuspecting girl came to the door of a man in desperate need of her help,
without him even realising it until it was almost too late.
Before I knew it, I had way over 100,000 words, and was nowhere near
finished with their relationship growing, so Innocence grew to become a pair
of novels, from Randall and Isolde meeting so shockingly and marrying, and
starting to live as husband and wife, to Innocence Afire, as Isolde must trust
to love despite all appearances being against her husband Randall.
They must fight their inner demons and external enemies to protect the
love they share. Through her love and sacrifice, and willingness to do
anything for her beloved, Isolde helps to uncover all of Randall's secrets, and
makes every one of his wishes come true.
I am delighted to hear from my readers, so do keep the fan emails and
comments coming!
Blessings!
S. M.
Innocence
Sorcha MacMurrough
202

Sorcha MacMurrough - Rakehell Regency 10 - Innocence PDF

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originalbeschreibung:

Originaltitel

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Sorcha MacMurrough - Rakehell Regency 10 - Innocence PDF

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Innocence

Book 10 of The Rakehell Regency Series

A superb steamy Regency romance full of intrigue. I adored the terrific

Also by Sorcha MacMurrough

Dedication: To my family and friends, and in loving memory of our

RAKEHELL CHARACTER LIST

(for their story, see The Mistaken Miss)

Innocence always calls mutely for protection when we would be so much

sake, why? he wheezed.

Miss Drake, she supplied. Im here to see him about-

urgently. I know hes expecting me.

and to dispel her nerves.

adultery in any form. He had known many women, mainly professionals.

disagreed with her considering them an improvement. But then he seemed to

through the linen shirt.

He pressed her backwards upon the bed intently. He stroked up one

Youre so very beautiful. I had no idea...

Or if they ever had, he had not noticed.

She stared at Howell and Parkins, who both glared back.

I want to see her, she said.

Yes, Madam, Im afraid we are all Radicals in our family.

Lord in Heaven, how could she possibly know...

fantasy of deflowering something young and innocent. I bet my friend

In a fit of sudden light-heartedness despite the worrisome occurrences of

to her achingly, he knew there never could be again. He might have

Im not hurting you? I know its a delicate place for a man.

her cheek. The morning is said supposed to be a marvelous time for

You can have as much as you like.

shuddering thrust he soared into the blazing heavens.

Of course. Ive made a dreadful mistake and wounded the Earl as a

earth had he been so insistent that she should stay.

Hes missed you. I missed you.

overheard Howell once say.

passion that tore through her with his slightest touch.

with his fingers in that exact spot.

Isoldes eyes reflected hurt. He had lied already?

yet another of his strange contradictions that would eventually be resolved.

And you never will be alone with him.

No intimacy either, she guessed.

I swear, never that. I want nothing to smack of a business transaction

Well, congratulations to you both, and best of luck, my dear. She

Randalls lawful wedded wife. How delicious, another drawled

Were almost home. I promise.

But what about our wedding guests?

Only fun? he asked.

Miss Drake? he asked coolly.

Her family would never have

Yes, and you made it, Isolde said angrily.

"He may not take so practical a view."

ignore. She stretched out her hand to him.

your story. I need to know how it ends.

night. It doesn't make me laugh, or my heart sing.

mother. She lifted her valise.

He winced. I give you my word, it will all work out.

to stay, you most definitely wanted me.

people. Perhaps this is your ultimate revenge.

Everywhere, and every day. I have no experience of that kind of

what, twenty-one or so?

you can heal it or rend it asunder.

Don't miss the continuation of Randall and Isolde's romance in Innocence

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen