..he wanted her. And at another time, as another man, he would have her. Without hesitation. As lover. . . as more.

We are a motley bunch. But we more than make up for it with tenacity." ~ Ralston to Simon

Ralston stiffened at the reference to the stupid wager that caused so much pain and unhappiness. He ignored Oxford's proffered hand, and instead met the baron's concerned gaze, and said, "Keep the money. I have her. She's all I want.

He raked his fingers through his hair. "She doesn't need me." Ralston smirked. "You are laboring under that mistaken impression that it is their job to need us. In my experience it is almost always the other way around.

So what's your second suggestion?" "Tread lightly." "That's it? That's the best advice you can give me?" "All right, tread very lightly.

She was all he wanted. He would give everything for her. Without thought. Without regret.

If I am an empress, he is the only man worthy of being my emperor.