Page 96 of Unbound Duchess

“You will pay for this,” Ellen warned, a challenge glimmering in her eyes.

His manhood pulsed at her words with growing anticipation.

“I look forward to it,” he promised, then left the room as Ellen let out a rather loud, unladylike snarl of frustration.

He grinned mischievously at the sound as he headed for his office. He loved the dynamic he and Ellen had created with one another. Sometimes their lovemaking was achingly sweet and slow. Other times, like today, there was taunting and teasing and pleasure-laced pain.

Laurence’s grin faded, however, as he walked into his study and came to an abrupt halt when he found Solomon already there, looking smart in his cut, black suit. His grave expression, however, gave no hint of the festivities that were about to unfold.

“You are early, old friend,” Laurence said, taking a careful step toward Solomon.

Solomon raised a single brow.

“Does that bother you?” he asked, his tone edged with something sharp.

Laurence shook his head.

“You know it does not,” he replied. “I am just surprised. I have not seen much of you of late.”

Solomon lowered his gaze to the floor as he rubbed his thumb up and down the glass of whisky he was holding in both hands.

“When Madalene shared that you and Ellen had reconciled, I assumed you would want some privacy.”

Laurence only nodded as he took in his friend’s stance. He seemed on edge, like a wolf that had found himself trapped in a cage.

“What have you been up to?” he asked, careful to make his tone sound casual.

Solomon lifted his glass and took a long pull of his whisky.

“I have become more acquainted with Godric,” he said after he swallowed. “Now that you are…indisposed, I needed a new partner to help me further investigate the auction.”

Laurence flinched at the coldness in his friend’s tone. He was not to have found happiness. Not yet. Not until they had shut the auction down. Fate had had other plans for him, though, and though he still wanted answers, he was not complaining about his friend finding the love of his life.

“I am glad you are not going to be doing this alone,” Laurence said quietly. “But please know that if you ever need my help, all you have to do is ask.”

Solomon gave a curt nod, but said nothing. A moment later, Ellen opened the study door, looking as refreshed and as beautiful as ever. He lifted his arm to her, and though he could still feel the sexual tension sizzling throughout her, she tucked herself against him and gave Solomon a pleasant greeting.

“You look beautiful, Ellen,” Solomon answered, going to her to brush a kiss on her cheek. “And happy. It is good to see.”

“Thank you, Solomon,” she answered, her tone soft and comforting as she looked affectionately at Laurence’s best friend. “It is good to see you again. Thank you so much for coming.”

Solomon raised his glass toward her.

“Happy to be here,” he replied, though his tone negated such a response.

“Our guests are starting to arrive, my love,” Ellen said, turning to look up at Laurence.

“Hm. Yes,” he muttered as he gave a nod. “I suppose Madalene wants the three of us to greet them together.”

Ellen’s smile was warm as she said, “You know she does.”

Laurence chuckled, but the sound quickly faded as he turned back to his obviously haunted friend.

“Stay in here as long as you like,” he offered.

Solomon only gave another curt nod and turned to the fireplace as Laurence led Ellen out of the room.

“Is he going to be alright?” Ellen whispered as they walked toward the foyer.