The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains as I stirred beside Lady Beatrix, my mind heavy with the weight of what I'd done. She slept soundly, her bruised face partially hidden by her hair, looking deceptively peaceful despite the darkness I knew lurked within her.
I sat up slowly, careful not to wake her. My stomach churned with disgust—not just at her, but at myself. How had I become this man? A co-conspirator in kidnapping a child, all to satisfy a woman's twisted vendetta.
"Leaving so soon, Jasper?" Lady Beatrix's voice, thick with sleep, startled me.
I turned to face her, steeling myself. "We need to talk about last night. About what you're asking me to do."
She stretched languorously, unconcerned by her nakedness. "What's there to discuss? Matteo will be secured by now if your men followed instructions."
"And if the girl becomes pregnant?" The words burst from me before I could stop them. "Have you considered that?"
