Free Belong To Me (book 4) (The Fielding Brothers Saga) by Marie Higgins

tightened around her waist and he kissed her lips again. He caressed her bare back, which the dress provided for him. A deep sigh tore through his throat.
    She loved the thrill, wanted more of it, but not right here. This was improper.
    Pushing her hands against his chest, she quickly withdrew from his embrace. “Ian, the only reason you want me is because another man wants me. You don’t love me. Lust is the only emotion you’re feeling right now.” She wrapped the shawl around her shoulders, keeping her bosom hidden. “This body you ogle is only a tiny part of who Charlotte Ashley Fielding really is, and you are not willing to get to know the real me. From here on out, I will not be used!”
    With a heavy heart, she turned and ran back into the building, leaving him standing alone.
    * * * *
    Ian stared at the performers on the stage but didn’t see a thing. Confusion clouded his mind from Charlotte’s words. He didn’t fully understand women, Charlotte in particular. Didn’t women want men to notice them? Wasn’t that why Charlotte wore that particular dress? And now that he had noticed her, she still wasn’t satisfied.
    Charlotte had wanted his attention during the three days after their marriage, and now as he practically drooled over her, it appalled her. She accused him of trying to use her—yet wasn’t that the very thing George was going to do? George didn’t want a wife, just a mistress.
    A movement from Charlotte pulled him to his senses. She kept her gaze locked to the stage, but it seemed all he could do was look upon her as he sat beside Mrs. Archibald in their assigned chairs. What did his wife really want? She’d mentioned there was more to her than just her body. What did he want out of this relationship? Did he even want a relationship? These endless questions plagued him, making his head throb.
    He’d ignored his wife since their marriage, and now she was back and more beautiful and passionate than he’d ever thought possible. But she sought an annulment, and she expected him to watch George paw at her person in public. That he would not do. So maybe he was jealous, but this was not fair. He ached to touch her as a husband had rights to do.
    Ian’s thoughts were still in turmoil during the carriage ride home. On impulse, he invited everyone inside his house. They retired to the drawing room where the ladies were offered sherry while the men had a whisky. George’s attention remained on Charlotte. The longer she allowed it, Ian’s temper lifted. He bunched his fists at his side. After what seemed like eternity of torture, he couldn’t take it anymore.
    As George and Charlotte stood to leave, Ian quickly met them at the door. “Before you go, there’s something I wish to say.” He paused a second to finish his drink, and then placed the empty glass on the nearby tray the butler held. “I’ve made a decision tonight that will affect both of you.”
    Charlotte’s eyes widened, but George’s were just passively curious. “George,” Ian continued, “I know you plan on taking my wife as your mistress, but I don’t think that’s a good idea. She’s still my wife, and I wish to fulfill my rights as her husband.”
    His gaze switched to Charlotte. Color drained from her face and her mouth dropped open.
    She gasped. “No, Ian. You cannot.” Her voice rose. “You told me you would sign the annulment papers.”
    “I’ve had second thoughts, my dear.” He took hold of her trembling hands. “It would please me if you would stay.” He pulled her out of George’s reach. “In fact, I insist you stay.” He looked to his friend. “George, would you see to it that my wife’s trunks are packed and sent here posthaste? I’m certain she’ll want to get settled as soon as possible.”
    Charlotte met George’s wide stare and shook her head. “George, please don’t.”
    Ian’s heart wrenched upon hearing her shaky voice, but he wouldn’t give in. When George didn’t answer right