A witch's ancient curse propels talented flutist Gigi Perrin back to A.D. 408, to the court of the depraved Roman Emperor Honorius and his admirable sister, Princess Galla Placidia. There, Gigi grapples with her disbelief about what has happened, and with the strange, new world of violent politics, social upheaval and barbarians straining at the very gates of an empire. Through it all, she must struggle with her powerful attraction to a pagan senator and military commander, Quintus Magnus, a man exotically different from anyone she has ever known. On the brink of a dark and war-torn age, Gigi joins forces with Magnus, battling to save a princess and her people, and ultimately finding love amid the chaos, before the fall of Rome.  

~~~~~

After the Fall ratchets up the tension as time traveler Gigi Perrin and her husband, the Roman warrior Quintus Magnus, join forces with the Visigoth King Alaric to march on Rome. There waits Princess Galla Placidia, the admirable sister of the despicable Emperor Honorius. About to be forced into an arranged marriage by her brother, Placidia fears a bleak future, trapped in a loveless union. 

In an attempt to save Rome from barbarian invasion, Placidia puts aside her troubles and meets with Alaric’s delegation, which includes Gigi and Magnus, and the king’s second-in-command, the Visigoth prince, Athaulf. The attraction between Placidia and Athaulf is instantaneous and overwhelming, but theirs is a forbidden love, destined to fail because of implacable politics and impending war. 

Bound by a friendship that transcends time, Gigi and Placidia must do whatever they can to protect the men they love, after the fall of Rome.

~~~~~

Return to Me finds time traveler Gigi Perrin happily settled into twenty-first century life with her husband, the former Roman senator and military commander, Quintus Magnus. Gigi has resumed her successful musical career, playing the flute for her adoring fans, while making her first foray into Hollywood by creating the musical score for a feature film about the Roman emperor Nero. 

At the film’s wrap party, Gigi is presented with a gift to commemorate her work: an ancient Roman ring depicting the goddess Victoria. Stunned, she and Magnus recognize it as the very ring that brought them together, and the one subsequently stolen from her and lost in A.D. 410. How did it make its way back to them? Magnus believes the answer is clear; Victoria sent it as a warning about their dear friend, Princess Galla Placidia. They start researching what happened to Placidia after Gigi and Magnus time traveled from the barbarous fifth century. To their shock, they discover Placidia's life took a series of terrible turns, culminating with the murders of her children. 

Realizing they have no other choice, Gigi and Magnus prepare to embark on a perilous quest to go back in time and rescue them. But one ominous question remains – how can they save the children without altering the course of history? 

~~~~~

About Morgan O'Neill:




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Most good daughters would say they owe their fathers everything.  Marisa Peruzzo, mafia princess, would.  

She owed him for killing her fiancé. 

She owed him for destroying her mother.  

She owed him for chaining her to the ‘family business’. 

And she owed him for taking away her lifelong friend.

Payback's a bitch.

Learn more at Diana's blog!

Learn more at Kim's website!

FBI Agent Jackson Yates has never believed in ghosts...until now. Called to the deepest, darkest basement at FBI Headquarters to investigate the discovery of the body of agent recruit Adrienne Garza, Jack is forced to look beyond the earthly to the spirit world for answers. Shaken by what he finds, he turns to beautiful paranormal psychologist Rachael Sullivan for help. As he draws her into the investigation, finding himself drawn closer to her with each step, can he protect her from the killer’s wrath? 

Rachael has spent her adult years seeking knowledge of life after death. She has focused those years on helping those stricken with grief, but when she receives messages from beyond the grave, messages that seem to have come from Adrienne herself, she is compelled to follow the trail. As the slain woman’s spirit reveals more and more of her killer, and of her past with investigating agent Jackson Yates, Rachael wonders if the clues are leading her to love, or death. 

Brought together by forces beyond their control, beyond their understanding, together Jack and Rachael seek the killer. Together they encounter Adrienne’s Ghost.

Learn more at Leah's website!

When two co-workers lose their spouses in the same accident, it would seem natural for them to bond over their losses. But Giselle Granger would rather struggle with raising her two young daughters alone than turn to Jackson Broussard for any kind of help.

After years of putting up with his malicious, unfaithful wife, Chloe, as well as her lies and manipulations, Jackson feels almost liberated by her death. Finally free to move on with his life, he finds himself bound to the past by the desire to do right by his best friend's widow and children, even when Giselle makes it clear that she does not welcome his interference.

Over time the two form a truce that slowly heats up to a sizzling attraction. But when guilt and heartbreaking rumors surface, Giselle fears she's made a dreadful mistake in allowing herself to fall for Jackson. Will the two grab for their second chance at happiness or will they be left with nothing more than a last first kiss and two broken hearts? 

Learn more at Lori's website!

GENNA LYNDSEY is not a people person. A short, too-skinny, wild haired waif, with crazy hair and sturdy nerdy glasses lives through books. So it’s lucky she and her best friend own their own bookstore. Her college days taught her that dating was too unreliable to depend on others. It was then that she started resorting to obscure quotes to shield herself from others who ventured too close.

RICK JOHNSON, Fraud Insurance Claims Investigator, is assigned to look into an unusual number of claims filed by Genna Lyndsey. He suspects Genna of sabotaging her own property for insurance money. His investigation uncovers an adorable introvert determined to keep everyone at bay, while someone else resolves to put her out of business—no matter how great the risk.

Learn more at Kathy's website!

Mark was born a vampire slayer. It's part of his DNA. He enjoys the power and he's damn good at his job. When his friend, Dathan, introduces him to the beautiful Laura, Mark's life becomes almost perfect. Dathan watches from the sidelines, as his best friend pursues the girl he's loved since childhood. Jealously leads to the ultimate betrayal. Because the best way to take out a vampire slayer is to become a vampire.

Learn more at Tenaya's blog!

Liana Morgan is the consummate business woman, buttoned-up, strait-laced, and very in tune with every aspect of her restaurants. She is closed off from emotional entanglements of any kind, not letting a single distraction slip under her skin. 

Now she’s in New Orleans, tying up the last few loose ends with a new restaurant, when her one temptation strolls, oh-so-casually, back into her life. Traven Campbell is an AMBER DRUID like her, and the one man she’s never been able to completely block from her mind. Every molecule of her ‘good girl’ persona wants him, and always has, but it’s not enough for her…or is it?

Traven Campbell is a player, and proud of it. He’s easy-going, laid-back, and an expert bachelor. But even womanizers have jobs. His latest is shadowing a target for the New Orleans P.D. But while on the watch, he’s shocked to see Liana, the one woman he’s never managed to coerce into bed, WITH his target. 

Determined to find answers, Traven confronts Liana, and soon business and pleasure are mixing with the sultry heat of New Orleans. Will Liana finally give in? Will Traven be able to tempt her beyond her invisible moral line? Or will Traven’s target call the final shot?

Learn more on Trish's website!

Jesse Holloman has a fetish for justice and a kink for werewolves. Together, his passions spiral into a world of pain, shadow desires, and an even more sinister, secretive sort of shapeshifter—the kind that changes without shifting.

Book One of The Scattered Dark Series.

Warning: This series thrives on explicit sexual content intended for mature readers.

Learn more on Facebook with Fierce!

After inheriting a portion of Spain’s Royal Inheritance, Cain left The Flying Gang for a chance at honest wealth. With the secrets of his piracy tucked away, he achieved his lofty aspirations. But when his partner and best friend betrays him to the Royal Navy, Cain’s dreams are ripped to shreds. He’s left with his ship, the tattered remnants of a stolen future, and a piece of Spanish mystery. Wanted by three nations and destined for the gallows, he returns to the legendary band of buccaneers for one purpose -- vengeance. 

Kidnapped by the formidable Cain, India Prescott discovers he intends to kill the man she’s to marry. Cain’s story reveals betrayal. Treachery that extends to her as well. Although she holds the key to retribution, India refuses to become another man’s pawn. Freedom lies before her, the liberty to shrug off propriety, make her own decisions, and claim her destiny. But when she uncovers goodness in Cain’s soul and he awakens passion in her heart, she must combat the chains of convention once more. 

Learn more at Claire's website!

THE DUKE OF PENROSE is not happy with MISS MEREDITH CHAMBERS, the American governess his new wards have arrived with. He quickly replaces her, happy to have his unwanted attraction to the unsuitable woman behind him. Until his mother hires her as a companion…

England, 1817. David Worthington, Duke of Penrose dislikes Miss Meredith Chambers, the American governess who accompanied his new wards. He especially detests his attraction to the insufferable woman, and is anxious for her replacement to arrive. 

Merry is thrilled when the Dowager Duchess Penrose hires her as a companion. Now she can stay with her beloved charges. But can she ignore how her heart thumps when the pompous duke gets close? 

Two people determined to ignore each other, despite the pull between them, and the sparks that fly whenever they're together.

Learn more on Facebook with Callie!

Amid pirates, godfathers and forbidden love in the ancient world of Rome, Lucianus and Aelia rise from the ashes of their lives. Aelia struggles to survive a marriage to a patrician monster who also forces Lucianus off his family's land. When Lucianus learns Cassius has sold the beautiful Aelia to a fate worse than death, he saves her and takes Aelia back to Amalfi where he heals her with his love. But will Rome allow this love between a plebeian and patrician's daughter? Will Rome make Lucianus grovel? Or will he seek his revenge?

Learn more on J.F.'s website!

Upon her arrival in Shoal Harbor, Maine, Lily Jackson hears eerie moans that the locals claim are the ghostly cries of the unfortunate Breckenridge women. Running from loss and setback in Cincinnati, Lily needs the job as semi-psychiatric caregiver for Andrew Breckenridge, but the storm she has to weather from the oldest Breckenridge brother is severe. Clinton Breckenridge is a brooding man used to getting his own way, and he’s not convinced Lily is the right person to help his troubled younger brother.

Even as Lily starts picking up the pieces of Andrew’s tortured psyche and finding out his dark secrets, another mystery looms before her. Andrew’s lover has gone missing in recent months and no one knows what has happened to her, or if her voice has joined those of the other Breckenridge women. Before she knows it, Lily finds herself in danger—thrust directly into the eye of the raging storm.

Learn more on Winter's website!

Most good daughters would say they owe their fathers everything.  Marisa Peruzzo, mafia princess, would.  

She owed him for killing her fiancé. 

She owed him for destroying her mother.  

She owed him for chaining her to the ‘family business’. 

And she owed him for taking away her lifelong friend.

Payback's a bitch.

Learn more at Diana's blog!

Learn more at Kim's website!

FBI Agent Jackson Yates has never believed in ghosts...until now. Called to the deepest, darkest basement at FBI Headquarters to investigate the discovery of the body of agent recruit Adrienne Garza, Jack is forced to look beyond the earthly to the spirit world for answers. Shaken by what he finds, he turns to beautiful paranormal psychologist Rachael Sullivan for help. As he draws her into the investigation, finding himself drawn closer to her with each step, can he protect her from the killer’s wrath? 

Rachael has spent her adult years seeking knowledge of life after death. She has focused those years on helping those stricken with grief, but when she receives messages from beyond the grave, messages that seem to have come from Adrienne herself, she is compelled to follow the trail. As the slain woman’s spirit reveals more and more of her killer, and of her past with investigating agent Jackson Yates, Rachael wonders if the clues are leading her to love, or death. 

Brought together by forces beyond their control, beyond their understanding, together Jack and Rachael seek the killer. Together they encounter Adrienne’s Ghost.

Learn more at Leah's website!

When two co-workers lose their spouses in the same accident, it would seem natural for them to bond over their losses. But Giselle Granger would rather struggle with raising her two young daughters alone than turn to Jackson Broussard for any kind of help.

After years of putting up with his malicious, unfaithful wife, Chloe, as well as her lies and manipulations, Jackson feels almost liberated by her death. Finally free to move on with his life, he finds himself bound to the past by the desire to do right by his best friend's widow and children, even when Giselle makes it clear that she does not welcome his interference.

Over time the two form a truce that slowly heats up to a sizzling attraction. But when guilt and heartbreaking rumors surface, Giselle fears she's made a dreadful mistake in allowing herself to fall for Jackson. Will the two grab for their second chance at happiness or will they be left with nothing more than a last first kiss and two broken hearts? 

Learn more at Lori's website!

GENNA LYNDSEY is not a people person. A short, too-skinny, wild haired waif, with crazy hair and sturdy nerdy glasses lives through books. So it’s lucky she and her best friend own their own bookstore. Her college days taught her that dating was too unreliable to depend on others. It was then that she started resorting to obscure quotes to shield herself from others who ventured too close.

RICK JOHNSON, Fraud Insurance Claims Investigator, is assigned to look into an unusual number of claims filed by Genna Lyndsey. He suspects Genna of sabotaging her own property for insurance money. His investigation uncovers an adorable introvert determined to keep everyone at bay, while someone else resolves to put her out of business—no matter how great the risk.

Learn more at Kathy's website!

Mark was born a vampire slayer. It's part of his DNA. He enjoys the power and he's damn good at his job. When his friend, Dathan, introduces him to the beautiful Laura, Mark's life becomes almost perfect. Dathan watches from the sidelines, as his best friend pursues the girl he's loved since childhood. Jealously leads to the ultimate betrayal. Because the best way to take out a vampire slayer is to become a vampire.

Learn more at Tenaya's blog!

Liana Morgan is the consummate business woman, buttoned-up, strait-laced, and very in tune with every aspect of her restaurants. She is closed off from emotional entanglements of any kind, not letting a single distraction slip under her skin. 

Now she’s in New Orleans, tying up the last few loose ends with a new restaurant, when her one temptation strolls, oh-so-casually, back into her life. Traven Campbell is an AMBER DRUID like her, and the one man she’s never been able to completely block from her mind. Every molecule of her ‘good girl’ persona wants him, and always has, but it’s not enough for her…or is it?

Traven Campbell is a player, and proud of it. He’s easy-going, laid-back, and an expert bachelor. But even womanizers have jobs. His latest is shadowing a target for the New Orleans P.D. But while on the watch, he’s shocked to see Liana, the one woman he’s never managed to coerce into bed, WITH his target. 

Determined to find answers, Traven confronts Liana, and soon business and pleasure are mixing with the sultry heat of New Orleans. Will Liana finally give in? Will Traven be able to tempt her beyond her invisible moral line? Or will Traven’s target call the final shot?

Learn more on Trish's website!

Jesse Holloman has a fetish for justice and a kink for werewolves. Together, his passions spiral into a world of pain, shadow desires, and an even more sinister, secretive sort of shapeshifter—the kind that changes without shifting.

Book One of The Scattered Dark Series.

Warning: This series thrives on explicit sexual content intended for mature readers.

Learn more on Facebook with Fierce!

After inheriting a portion of Spain’s Royal Inheritance, Cain left The Flying Gang for a chance at honest wealth. With the secrets of his piracy tucked away, he achieved his lofty aspirations. But when his partner and best friend betrays him to the Royal Navy, Cain’s dreams are ripped to shreds. He’s left with his ship, the tattered remnants of a stolen future, and a piece of Spanish mystery. Wanted by three nations and destined for the gallows, he returns to the legendary band of buccaneers for one purpose -- vengeance. 

Kidnapped by the formidable Cain, India Prescott discovers he intends to kill the man she’s to marry. Cain’s story reveals betrayal. Treachery that extends to her as well. Although she holds the key to retribution, India refuses to become another man’s pawn. Freedom lies before her, the liberty to shrug off propriety, make her own decisions, and claim her destiny. But when she uncovers goodness in Cain’s soul and he awakens passion in her heart, she must combat the chains of convention once more. 

Learn more at Claire's website!

THE DUKE OF PENROSE is not happy with MISS MEREDITH CHAMBERS, the American governess his new wards have arrived with. He quickly replaces her, happy to have his unwanted attraction to the unsuitable woman behind him. Until his mother hires her as a companion…

England, 1817. David Worthington, Duke of Penrose dislikes Miss Meredith Chambers, the American governess who accompanied his new wards. He especially detests his attraction to the insufferable woman, and is anxious for her replacement to arrive. 

Merry is thrilled when the Dowager Duchess Penrose hires her as a companion. Now she can stay with her beloved charges. But can she ignore how her heart thumps when the pompous duke gets close? 

Two people determined to ignore each other, despite the pull between them, and the sparks that fly whenever they're together.

Learn more on Facebook with Callie!

Amid pirates, godfathers and forbidden love in the ancient world of Rome, Lucianus and Aelia rise from the ashes of their lives. Aelia struggles to survive a marriage to a patrician monster who also forces Lucianus off his family's land. When Lucianus learns Cassius has sold the beautiful Aelia to a fate worse than death, he saves her and takes Aelia back to Amalfi where he heals her with his love. But will Rome allow this love between a plebeian and patrician's daughter? Will Rome make Lucianus grovel? Or will he seek his revenge?

Learn more on J.F.'s website!

Upon her arrival in Shoal Harbor, Maine, Lily Jackson hears eerie moans that the locals claim are the ghostly cries of the unfortunate Breckenridge women. Running from loss and setback in Cincinnati, Lily needs the job as semi-psychiatric caregiver for Andrew Breckenridge, but the storm she has to weather from the oldest Breckenridge brother is severe. Clinton Breckenridge is a brooding man used to getting his own way, and he’s not convinced Lily is the right person to help his troubled younger brother.

Even as Lily starts picking up the pieces of Andrew’s tortured psyche and finding out his dark secrets, another mystery looms before her. Andrew’s lover has gone missing in recent months and no one knows what has happened to her, or if her voice has joined those of the other Breckenridge women. Before she knows it, Lily finds herself in danger—thrust directly into the eye of the raging storm.

Learn more on Winter's website!

~~~~~~

Told by everyone, including his father, he is slow-witted, Lord John Mitchell is willing to do almost anything to avoid helping run the family estate or care for his orphaned nephew. His lifelong battle learning to read and write has convinced him his father is right. 

 After the death of her husband in the Crimean War, Vivienne Ravenhill needs financial stability for her son and herself. 

 When Lord John’s father suddenly dies, he is thrown into taking on the estate and the family’s mill. Are John’s learning disabilities something he can overcome in order to handle this responsibility? 

 Will Vivienne find a place in his home...and his heart? 

 An interesting look at tackling dyslexia in 1855.

I love a good angst hero, don’t you? It’s not fun to read and it’s not fun to write characters where everything is perfect. In my Regimental Heroes series, I tackle now day issues and how they may be handled them in 1800 England. The over arching thread in the first three stories, my heroes have PTSD. After getting their butts kicked in the Crimean War, they would have returned from this bloody, brutal battle with issues. The same issues our soldiers suffer from today. Problems readjusting, night terrors, and the list goes on. 

Emotional growth for characters is essential. They must learn and grow through the course of the story. In my latest release, Redemption for a Rogue, John has dyslexia. In 1855 they had no idea what this was. His father has written him off and John believes he’s worthless and could never take the reins of the estate. Vivienne is left a widow from the war with a young son to raise. For women in those times, the choices were limited. She is desperate to find a governess position to establish a stable home for her son.

It’s great to take characters at their emotional low points and see how they change. Sometime it’s organic as I write them, going along on the journey and realizing what they need to do.

 I hope you will enjoy reading The Regimental Heroes short story series as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it.

Let's take a peek at these two, shall we?



John dismissed Collins and then lifted the tray’s lid to inhale the marvelous full-bodied aromas. He glanced to Vivienne. Hunched over the desk, she held a quill in hand. An auburn curl fell over her forehead and a delightful frown creased her beautiful brow. A feeling of complete and total well being washed over him.

Is this what life should be? Could be? Happy. Content. Had he ever felt this before? His heart twisted. After so many years of wanting, could these three people give him everything he’d wished for?

He slid the lid back over the meat and announced, “Let’s eat dinner before it grows cold.”

Vivienne looked up for a second before going back to the paper in front of her. She shook her head. “There is still which needs to be done. You and the boys eat. I will take a bite later.”

John moved to her, drew the quill from her hand, and placed it on the desk. He placed a thumb under her chin and then kissed her.

“The boys,” Vivienne said. Her cheeks blushed pink from his outward show of affection.

He tipped his head their direction. “They are playing. Nothing gets between boys and wooden soldiers. Someday these games will be replaced with a distraction of a beautiful woman.”

Get the Kindle Version Here

Today on the blog tour, I have a dual stop.  At Bitten by Paranormal Romance, I'm sharing a Pirate menu today!  You might be surprised the sort of fare our swashbuckling heroes consumed.  At Novel Thoughts, I'm talking about some of the seafarer's superstitions.  Drop in, check them out, and have a good chuckle.

I hope to see you there!

While I'm here, check out this tidbit from Bitten by Paranormal Romance's review -- my first review on Bound by Decency!

Bound by Decency Releases Today

Buy the Book at Amazon or Barnes and Noble.  Print and Digital are available.
(Links Inserted as Retailers Publish the title)

After inheriting a portion of Spain’s Royal Inheritance, Cain left The Flying Gang for a chance at honest wealth. With the secrets of his piracy tucked away, he achieved his lofty aspirations. But when his partner and best friend betrays him to the Royal Navy, Cain’s dreams are ripped to shreds. He’s left with his ship, the tattered remnants of a stolen future, and a piece of Spanish mystery. Wanted by three nations and destined for the gallows, he returns to the legendary band of buccaneers for one purpose -- vengeance.

Kidnapped by the formidable Cain, India Prescott discovers he intends to kill the man she’s to marry. Cain’s story reveals betrayal. Treachery that extends to her as well. Although she holds the key to retribution, India refuses to become another man’s pawn. Freedom lies before her, the liberty to shrug off propriety, make her own decisions, and claim her destiny. But when she uncovers goodness in Cain’s soul and he awakens passion in her heart, she must combat the chains of convention once more.

Only this time India's not fighting society. She’s battling a pirate bent on keeping her decency intact.

~~~~~

~ 3 ~



As Cain stepped through the door to the main deck, a foul-breathed sailor skidded to an abrupt halt. He grinned, though he lacked the teeth to make it complete. “Cap’n! I was on me way tae fetch ye. Trouble be fast approachin’ on larboard.”

Every muscle in Cain’s body tensed at the veiled excitement in the seasoned sailor’s voice. He stepped the rest of the way outside, brows drawn tight as he looked over the rail. At the sight of a warship not more than five hundred yards away, he clenched a fist.

“Damn me,” he muttered. He grabbed onto the bowline, swung himself around the mizzenmast, and rushed up the short stairs to the quarterdeck where Drake stood at the rail, a brass spyglass lifted to his eye.

“You’re just in time for the fun, Cain. Seems His Majesty’s finest couldn’t resist a little bit o’ sportin’ at first light.”

Cain pulled the glass from Drake’s hand and lifted it to his eyes, though he didn’t need to look. The flapping Union Jacks off the main mast told him everything. Out of habit, he surveyed the hull, counting gun ports. Twenty coal black muzzles stared him in the face.

He lowered the glass and pulled in a deep breath. His mind worked quickly, calculating odds, debating whether to stand and fight or whether a speedy disappearance would be in their best interests. It made no sense for a single warship to draw so close. The Kraken outgunned her by twenty. Doubled her standard crew. Why would the Royal Navy foolishly enter such skewed stakes? Better yet, how had she found them? When he’d left the decks earlier, he’d seen only the single distant light.

“Shall I give the call to guns?” Drake’s question held the anxiety of a man sporting for a fight. “She’s easy pickin’s all by herself.”

With a slow shake of his head, Cain squelched Drake’s enthusiasm. “Let’s see what she’s about. She may pose no threat.”

Drake’s jaw dropped in disbelief. He recovered with a double blink. “Your mind is full of cotton, Cain. She’s right there for the takin’. We fire on her bow and bring her to her knees, I say.”

Exasperation rammed Cain like a stone fist. Though Drake’s skills at sea were exceptional and his argument well-suited to the life they had assumed, his logic held an error they could ill-afford to make. Cain thrust the glass back into his quartermaster’s hands. “Have you forgotten the cargo in my cabin? It’s not her death I seek. As certain as that warship sails in range, another isn’t far behind.” He looked once more to the approaching Navy ship. “We stand and wait. Maintain our course. She cannot possibly recognize us. Let us see what she’s about.”

“You’re cursed with this decency,” Drake muttered. He braced his hands on the rail and stared down at the sea. “What happened to Cain, the scoundrel who knew nothing but the fight?”

Cain didn’t bother with a reply. The man Drake referred to was stuck somewhere between Teddy, who had led a quiet merchant’s life, and a life of freedom Cain had once revered, but now despised.

The warship coasted another fifty yards closer. The waters between them crested and sloshed against The Kraken’s hull. A hearty bellow floated across the narrow expanse. “Boat, ahoy!”

Curling his hands into the rail, Cain looked to Drake. In the silence that passed between them, they shared the combined knowledge of more than twenty years at sea. Answering the call would doom them. They must commit to fight or turn their sails to the wind. Cain knew what Drake wished. What the men craved. Beneath the warship’s decks, they’d find enough supplies to keep them aloft for several more weeks. Coin aplenty, depending on how recently the Navy had set ashore.

Yet he didn’t trust the warship’s solitary presence. With word of his escape so fresh, several full fleets sailed in search. Too likely, it remained she had a sister somewhere near. One who would make her appearance on the echo of the first cannon blast.

“Boat, ahoy, I say! In the name of the King present yourself!” the warship demanded again.

Cain whirled toward the helmsman on the poop deck above. “Turn her west, hard to the rudder, now.” He grabbed an overhead line and jumped down to the main deck. “Hands to the riggings, make haste! Clear the braces, clew up the foresail, close-haul that spanker!”

At once, the crew flew into action. Amidst a chorus of protests, they hauled on lines, repeating his commands down the decks to the men near the bow. Cain stood amidst them, throwing his own back into the chore of bringing the boat hard to starboard. As he heaved on the rigging, and the bow began to ease around, he shouted once more, “Haul on every scrap of canvas—we’re changing course!”

Drake joined the chaos, climbing down amidst the men. The glower he sent Cain made his disagreement known, but even he wouldn’t dare protest in front of the entire company. They would argue later, when no one could overhear the quartermaster take to task the captain.

The sails filled, rippled hard with the catch of wind. Behind them, the slower vessel turned to follow. Cain encouraged his men with another hearty bellow, and as The Kraken settled into her new path, he gestured to the bosun. “Stuart, mind your paces. Tell Reggie to prepare the stern chaser.”

The very last guns on the end of the ship, he would fire if necessary. A strike across the warship’s jib would slow her even further. But the noise would alert all nearby. He would make the call only as a last resort.

Anxiety constricted his chest. Never before had he run from a fight. In years past, he would have struck his colors in answer to the hail. Before a second call could come, the cannons would have rained.

Then again, never before had he carried human cargo worth a damn. While India was still Cain’s captive, she was also a woman. He could not bring himself to risk her life. He’d make this up to the men. Find a target they could easily overtake. Once he was free of India Prescott.

A cannon thundered. Near The Kraken’s stern, a splash pocked the decks. Cain vaulted onto the rigging. Hand over fist, he dragged himself to the yardarm above the decks to obtain a better view of their positioning. The warship lagged severely, now nearly six hundred yards away. A slow smile spread across Cain’s face, and he nodded to himself. “More sails, and with a will!” He looked back to the helmsman. “Steady as she goes, King.”

“Aye, Cap’n,” King returned with a wide grin.

Satisfied the Navy ship no longer posed a threat, Cain climbed down the net of braided rope. He surveyed the crew, insuring no man slacked in duty. His gaze met Drake’s dark glower. Cain drew in a deep breath. Once, he would have been equally as furious. Only cowards turned tail and ran.

He looked away. Shouldering past a seaman, he shoved through the heavy door that opened onto his private hall. At his cabin, he halted. India presented a more bothersome encounter than even Drake’s anger. Her deceit, her games, only made his head ache. He turned around and descended the main stairs into the crewmen’s deck below. Food would do his mind well. He hadn’t eaten since dawn the previous morning. On a full belly, he could confront both Drake and India.

Winding through rough-hewn tables, he made his way to the cook’s room and pounded on the timbers that supported the open doorframe. The scent of his favorite fish soup permeated the air. His stomach rumbled greedily. “Cleaver, hand me a bowl of that tarpon stew.”

The cook gestured a three-fingered hand at a large boiling pot. “Ain’t ready, Cap’n. All’s I gots is last night’s doughboys.”

Cain considered the lumpy, soggy leftovers of dumplings soaked in pork broth before he let out a disappointed sigh. Warm, the fare left little to desire. Warmed-over, it could scarce be called edible. His belly, however, demanded sustenance, no matter the type. “Very well. Throw a scrap of jerk on there too.” At least the salted pork would add flavor to the floury lumps.

Juggling his signature knife in one hand, Cleaver ladled out a generous portion. He tossed three thick slices of meat onto a plate, then passed them both to Cain. “Here ye be. Don’t let me hear ye complainin’ none.”

Cain took his meager meal to a long table and dropped into a sturdy chair. As he picked up his spoon, footsteps entered at his back.

“What in the seven hells was that about, Cain?”

Drake’s gravelly voice washed over Cain like buckets of ice. He dropped his spoon into the runny soup and leaned back in his chair with a mutter. “Can’t you see I’m about to eat?”

A scarred fist slammed into the table near Cain’s elbow. “I don’t give one single damn about your belly. My men agreed to aid your cause. They did not sign on to turn tail from a nonexistent threat.”

Anger simmered through Cain’s veins. He narrowed his gaze, meeting Drake’s baleful glower. “Last I knew, I was captain here.”

“Last I knew, the man I called friend was no coward.” Challenge gleamed behind dark grey eyes.

In no mood to fight with one of the few persons he could consider ally, Cain dropped his head to the back of the chair and closed his eyes. Through clenched teeth he asked, “Have you forgotten His Majesty’s ships do not tend to sail alone?” He opened his eyes and pinned Drake with a hard stare. “Have you become so accustomed to the simple spoils off the Bahamas that you cannot remember a ship of the line, stays with the line, unless they seek to bait and sink?”

Drake’s jaw worked in a fit of temper. But as silence settled around them, heavy and oppressive, the harsh glint in his eyes softened. He pushed his long unruly hair away from his face and lowered himself into the chair opposite Cain. “’Tis true I’ve come to take risks more often than not. But I didn’t save your sorry arse to become the laughin’ stock of my company. Tell me, Cain, what’s amiss with you? Did you grow to like a simple merchant’s life as Teddy?”

Two years ago, had anyone asked Cain the same, he would have laughed in their face. Yet now, when he couldn’t sail the sea without looking over his shoulder, he craved what he had lost. He’d come so close to finding decency, to obtaining a worthy place within this world. To the life he hadn’t even realized he longed for.

Now, he had nothing but a past.

His appetite spoiled, Cain pushed the bowl aside. “I have confessions to gain from Miss Prescott and a traitor to hunt down.”

“That’s it, isn’t it?” A solitary golden hoop earring glinted as Drake cocked his head. “Can’t say as I blame you—you had the freedom of a rover and the security of lawfulness. We let you be, didn’t often trouble our former brother. There’s no shame in admittin’ you wish things otherwise.”

Uncomfortable with Drake’s keen perception, Cain rose to his feet. “I won’t find Richard any faster by sitting here flapping my maw with you.”

As he stepped past the table, Drake’s arm shot out. Strong fingers dug into Cain’s forearm. “What are you doin’ with the girl? I agreed to help you capture her. But the men mumble. The lackeys seem to think they’re deservin’ of the little chit.”

Cain shook off Drake’s grip. “I’ve yet to decide. She claims ignorance. I gave her this morn’ to think about it.” He looked over Drake’s head at the distant stairs, his mouth pursed. He couldn’t keep India aboard forever, and truth to tell he hadn’t particularly given thought to what he’d do with her once he learned Richard’s whereabouts. He didn’t dare risk the British coast again—certainly not after William Prescott learned of her kidnapping. Nor could he deposit her in the colony across the ocean. Dropping her over the rails would be the simplest solution, but he didn’t have it in him to kill a woman.

He frowned. Not a man aboard would understand that logic. If they heard him make mention he couldn’t stomach the though of bringing harm to India, they’d throw him over. He dropped his gaze to Drake’s. “We’ll take her to Nassau and leave her with Old Bess.” With a few words to the regal madam, Cain could insure India found safe passage to England. Another tidbit he didn’t intend to share. He would have laughed had he heard a rover utter such nonsense.

To better cover his despicable decency he added, “She can teach India how to…survive. Tell the men if they wish to have her, they will have to pay Old Bess’ price.” Which he would see that Old Bess set so high no man, save a king, could afford.

Amusement turned up the corners of Drake’s mouth. He chuckled low, shook his head. “Perhaps there’s a bit of Cain left in you yet. Only he would take a lady and turn her into a whore.”

Unable to resist a chance at goading Drake, Cain replied, “She will not be the first dove I have soiled. At least the ladies will have me.”

At the subtle insult to Drake’s long-time lover, Drake grunted. “I prefer a bit less virginal propriety.”

“Aye, you prefer the risk you might wake with a knife in your side.”

Relieved he’d satisfied Drake’s interest in his intentions, Cain left Drake to splutter for a retort. He mounted the stairs once more and turned for his cabin. This time, he wouldn’t be deterred. India would give him answers, or he would do as he promised and bind her in ropes. A bit of time in The Kraken’s belly, with the stench of bilge to fill her nostrils, would bring a swift recovery to her memory.

He let himself inside to confront the same chilly rush of air flowing from his windows as before. India huddled on the floor, her back against his bed. He stalked across the room. “God’s teeth, you’ll give us all the sickness. We have yet to reach warm waters.”

A soft moan answered his lecture.

He glanced down at her with a frown. She pulled the sodden blanket about her tighter and shivered. So she sought to feign illness, did she? Another trick that wouldn’t work. “I warned you not to play me for a fool.” He closed a second window. “You’ve been raised with ships. I don’t believe this game of illness. Have you gained your memory?”

“Please…” She wet her lips with a tantalizing sweep of her tongue. “I don’t know.”

Cain turned from the closed windows, leaned a hip against his desk, and folded his arms across his chest. “I grow weary of this constant circle. Tell me now, India, else I’ll find those ropes.”

She answered with a shake of her head. “The windows. Please…” Another shudder rolled down her spine, and she shrunk back against the heavy bed frame.

It was then Cain noticed the lingering stench in the air. He sniffed, wrinkled his nose. His gaze slid down India’s slender shoulders to the floor. There, tucked beside his bed, sat the chamber pot he’d dumped the night before. The odor came from the greenish bile within. Blast it all, she wasn’t fooling.

~~~~~

 

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