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didn’t think his lover had imagined this kind of
togetherness.
     
    Sarah couldn’t believe what she had said. But there had been
no other way. She’d rather pose nude than have to tell Mr. I-am-so-in-control
that her father used the money she had set aside for taxes to purchase the
materials for the latest version of the Verification Device.
    The thought of undressing before the handsome Mr. Dorvee and
showing him all her imperfections so he could capture them forever on canvas
was overwhelming. Before her shaking knees could win, she focused on the
details.
    “So, in exchange for me sitting for Mr. Dorvee you will pay
my father’s royalties early.”
    Latimer nodded.
    “When will you make your payment and how long do you expect
me to sit for Mr. Dorvee?”
    “Starting tomorrow, you sit for Warren every day for a month
or until he has what he needs, whichever comes first.”
    She shook her head. “You make the payment in three weeks and
I will sit for Mr. Dorvee every day unless I have other responsibilities.”
    “Agreed.”
    Sarah swallowed.
    “I assure you nothing untoward will happen. You are
completely safe in our care while you are here.” He exhaled and for a moment
his lips softened. “And if at any point you would like to tell me what you
require the funds for, we can reevaluate the situation.”
    When hell becomes an ice skater’s paradise.
    She flashed back to Mr. Kemmer. The broad jaw, wide
shoulders and dirty-gray eyes. His onion-filled breath. His long fingers on her
shoulders. His chapped lips against hers.
    “We could come up with other ways for you to pay your
taxes, Miss Rigdon. Other ways indeed.”
    The memory nearly made her ill. Everyone admired and trusted
Kemmer, but he’d always made her shudder. Until now he had been proper and
never stepped overtly out of line. Until he found out their bank account was
close to empty.
    Then he’d told her if she’d whored herself to him he would
find a way to make their paperwork disappear. However scandalous Latimer’s
alternative, deep inside her she trusted him.
    And don’t anyone ask me why I have faith in him.
    She straightened her shoulders. I have no choice. Whatever Mr. Dorvee planned couldn’t be as bad as the alternative.
    Sarah met Latimer’s thoughtful gaze. “I trust your word.”
    “Or you could tell me why you really need the money. No sane
woman would risk her reputation for clothes.”
    As much as she longed for someone to share the burden with,
her father’s good name was hers to protect. Latimer could never know the truth.
“Then you obviously know less about women than you thought. I will be back
tomorrow morning.” She ground her teeth. “I will use the side and back
entrances. My repeated visits will cause talk if I arrive at the front door.”
    He nodded. “I have an unmarked steam coach I can send for
you.”
    “Thank you. I will give you a different meeting point every
day.”
    His brows rose. “You really believe that is necessary?”
    “I will do whatever I must to protect my reputation.” She
nodded to him. “Mr. Latimer.” Sarah whirled around and strode from the room.
Her thoughts were in utter chaos.
    Jennings waited for her with her coat over his arm. “Would
you like me to call you a hansom, Miss Rigdon?”
    “No thank you, Jennings. I feel in need of fresh air.” She
was only capable of a short smile before she stepped outside. Her heart raced
and her knees nearly buckled.
    She had only one problem.
    Sarah had no idea if this weakness was due to worry or
excitement. The thought of spending more time with Warren Dorvee, the idea that
Archer Latimer would be close by should make her shiver with dread.
    Instead it made her tingle.

Chapter Two
     
    Archer stared at the closed door and rubbed his face. When
he’d risen this morning this was not how he’d anticipated his day going. He
snorted. Nothing new where Miss Sarah Rigdon was concerned.
    Part of him wanted to send her a missive telling her