Free The Duke's Lady (Historical Romance - The Ladies Series) by Brenda Jernigan Page B

think?”
    Jonathan studied the map. “It’s hard to tell with only half a chart, but this looks like the Gulf of Mexico to me. I’d wager your friend—you know, the pirate—could possibly shed some light on this map.”
    “You mean Lafitte, that scoundrel! If this drawing is worth anything, he’d sell his soul for it. The man lacks scruples, but no better friend could I find. You do have a good point, though. If Jewel doesn’t recognize this place, I’ll take it with me when I return home.”
    “Speaking of the United States, I have another message from General Andrew Jackson.” Jonathan handed a letter to Adam.
    Tearing the envelope, Adam quickly read the note, then frowned. “Things are getting worse at home. I need to do a little investigating in London to see what I can pick up. I also think it’s time to send for the Wind Jammer.”
    “So soon? Are you going to take Jewel with you?”
    “No, I think it’s better that she stays here,” he answered in a low voice. “At least until we find out more about her. Her life could possibly be in danger.”
    “You’re probably right,” Jonathan agreed. “If you’re ever caught, you’ll be hung for treason.”
    “In my eyes it’s not treason.” Adam’s look hardened. “I think the United States should be allowed to govern themselves. After all, I’m part American.”
    “I know, and I agree with you. One day perhaps I’ll go and see this country you love.” Jonathan realized he probably could be hung for that treasonous statement, but he knew Adam wouldn’t be loyal to this new nation without just cause. “By the way, while you’re in London, I’ll be glad to keep an eye on Jewel.” Again he saw the muscle in Adam’s jaw start to twitch.
    “Thank you.” Adam let out a long, controlled breath. “But remember, the lady is mine.”
    “So, you do care!”
    “Let’s put it this way. I found her. She belongs to me!” he stated in no uncertain terms.
    Jonathan couldn’t help laughing. “You talk as if Jewel is a piece of goods to be bought and sold, and the person who had possession was her owner. I think you’re in for a rude awakening, ol’ chap.”
    Before Adam could issue a stinging reply, the study door opened and the subject they had been discussing entered the room. Jewel was a vision of femininity. Her simple dress was made of white percale that fitted at the top and gathered with soft pleats at the waist. The bottom of her skirt had a muslin flounce trim. She wore a pink embroidered Spencer jacket with puffed shoulders and long velvet sleeves that fitted over the bodice and accented her tiny waistline, and her hair had been tied back with a soft pink ribbon of lace.
    The two men both stood as she walked over to them, but Jonathan moved first, claiming her hand. He placed it in the crook of his arm. “Let me escort you into the dining room. I must say you look lovely tonight, my dear.”
    “Thank you,” Jewel murmured.
    Jonathan glanced over his shoulder. “Are you coming, Adam?” Jonathan was well pleased with the black look he received.
    Jewel noticed extra candles had been placed on the dining room table. Soft light bathed the room, and in the middle of the table was a beautiful centerpiece of orange and yellow cut flowers. She took her seat across from Jonathan, and Adam sat at the head of the table.
    The quail was delicious, but most of all she enjoyed Jonathan’s carefree company. He was such an imp, making her laugh often. Even Adam seemed to finally relax as he told her about the mischief he and Jonathan had gotten into when they were younger.
    Jewel kept wiping the tears off her cheeks. She didn’t know when she had laughed so much.
    Seeing her eyes glisten with laughter, Adam once again found himself wondering about the lady. He knew Jonathan was trying his damnedest to be charming, and it irritated him. But despite that, Adam was surprised the evening proved so enjoyable. He now found he’d hate leaving her, but he