Isabel and the Rogue (The Luna Sisters #2)

by Liana De la Rosa

Clearing her throat, Isabel infused as much apathy into her voice as she could when she said, “Whether I think Captain Dawson is handsome matters not. What matters is his character, and his is quite deficient.” “He is a rake with a capital R. But you know what they say about rakes…” Gabby raised a palm. “They make the best husbands.” “Reformed rakes do.” Isabel curled her lip. “And nothing about Captain Dawson’s conduct hints that he’s been reformed.”

“There’s nothing wrong with being frightened of things. The world is a frightening place.” Sirius snagged her gaze. “It’s what we do with that fear that matters. Do we let it control us? Or do we acknowledge it and move forward anyway?”

“I suppose it’s natural for people to believe their home is the center of the world because it is the center of their world. I find it refreshing to be reminded that the world is much vaster than my experience on any given day.”

“Trade is always a good thing, but only when it’s conducted for the benefit of both parties. It seems to me that the British Empire is not so much engaged in trade as they are in exploitation. They use their might to take what they want by force, often at the detriment of those they have stolen from.”

“Why would you ever want to settle for pretty? Pretty is tiresome. It’s boring. And you’re not boring, Isabel. You’re bright and sharp and…” He coughed into his fist, his tie abruptly tight. “Memorable.” Her lips parted. “Memorable?” Sirius nodded, reluctantly releasing her hand. “I certainly haven’t been able to forget you.”

“But I can only do this if you’re quiet.” Sirius’s thumbs traced patterns on her thighs. “Can you be quiet for me?” “Yes,” she breathed, without hesitation. Isabel would be so good for him. “Good girl,” he said, his voice like smooth black coffee. Taking hold of her hem, Sirius lifted the bulk of her skirts until Isabel felt the cool air on her bare legs. Tucking the taffeta around her waist, he met her gaze. “And good girls get rewarded.”

With his cheek resting against her thigh and his blond hair askew, he looked exhausted. Isabel reached down to brush errant locks back into place. Her hands lingered near his neck long after she had put him to rights. Sucking in a breath, Isabel looked for his eyes. They were shuttered, and with a clarity born of his ministrations, Isabel knew he was conflicted. Perhaps he felt a bit vulnerable. Lord knew she did, especially because she was still bare to his gaze. Probing her thoughts for something she could say to put him at ease, Isabel blurted out, “Why do you call me sunshine?” Sirius lifted his head and sat back on his haunches, a small frown on his lips. “Because everything seems brighter when you’re there.”

“If you think I’m going to help you seduce another man, you are cracked.” Outrage swept scarlet across her cheeks. “You said you would help me!” “And I have been. But understand this, Isabel Luna.” Sirius stalked toward her, an unholy roar echoing in his head. “I would break every bone in Westhope’s hands if he ever laid a single finger on you.”