Dare to Love Read Free Page A

endless.
    Thinking of his family brought on a familiar surge of anger. Unwilling to give in to such a relentless emotion, he slowed down and returned his attention to his companion trailing behind.
    “Don’t worry, it won’t be much farther.” He offered her an encouraging smile.
    Her response was a tired shrug.
    Fortunately, the second building they came upon had a small, faded sign out front, declaring itself a respectable establishment for travelers. As they turned up the entrance, a young man emerged from the stable.
    Dare said under his breath, “It would be best if we pose as brother and sister, to avoid any impropriety. The rest of our story is innocent enough.”
    Nivea nodded, her eyes fixed on the approaching stable hand.
    “Good day, sir,” the young man said with a tug to his forelock, “are you anxious for a bit of rest tonight?”
    “Yes. Do you have rooms available?”
    “Oh, yes, milord. Mr. Ludlow will be more’n pleased to find a room for you and your…”
    “Sister,” Landis finished for him.
    “Sister. Yes, milord.”
    Dare sprung from his horse, wincing as he landed. The large nag was by no means as comfortable as his usual mount. He handed off the reins and strode over to Nivea to help her down.
    Keeping her eyes averted, she mumbled, “Why don’t you go inside. I’ll join you in a moment.”
    In no mood for games, he reached up his arms and gestured irritably for her to dismount.
    Still she didn’t move. Instead, she said, “Perhaps you could ask for some assistance. Or I could climb down onto that block over there.”
    Dare couldn’t wait to get inside to wash off the dust from the road. It coated his face and hair—even his teeth were gritty. This was no time for arguments. “Come, it will be fine. Let’s get inside where we can rest.”
    “I don’t think I can.”
    Now she was being ridiculous. “Nonsense. Throw your leg over and slide down. I’ll catch you.”

    As much as she wanted to get down from the dreadful beast, Nivea hated to appear ungainly in front of him. But what choice did she have? If she continued to fuss, it would irritate him.
    So, rucking up her skirts as best she could without exposing her entire thigh, she took a deep breath, heaved her leg over the horse, and plummeted down into his arms. He staggered a bit, but managed to guide her to her feet without incident.
    As always, the touch of his hands sent a pleasant shock through her. But it only lasted until her feet hit the ground and her knees buckled. She’d never felt so sore in all her life. She hoped she could make it inside without collapsing.
    Mr. Ludlow was waiting at the front door and snapped to attention as they approached. It was obvious that years of service had taught him to recognize Quality even if their mounts were not the usual snuff. “Milord, welcome to our establishment. Will you be dining with us this evening or do you and your lady require a room?”
    “My sister and I will require two rooms. You may bring us both a hot bath and set up a meal in a private sitting room. If you can have everything accomplished in the next three quarters of an hour, there will be an extra shilling for you.”
    “Yes, milord! Please make yourself comfortable in our parlor while I see to your rooms.”
    He led them to a tidy little area off the front hall. Dare surveyed the accommodations before stretching out his long frame on the damask sofa. Nivea sank into a sturdy chair by the door, grateful for the steady surface.
    She smiled at the sound of footsteps racing up and down the stairs. It was obvious that Mr. Ludlow was intent on meeting their needs as soon as possible.
    The door opened and an older woman approached with a tray of glasses.
    “’Ere is some sherry for you and your lady, sir. Sure to clear out the dust from the road.” She placed the tray on the table and left with a nervous curtsey. Dare eyed the glasses warily. Picking one up, he held it up to the light. Finding it to his