Read Online In the Barrister's Chambers by Tina Gabrielle - Free Book Online Page A

imaginary wrinkles from her dark cloak.
    â€œI’ll take your silence as a no.”
    She looked up. “Father isn’t aware of the extent of the evidence against Randolph and that witnesses saw him fleeing from Bess Whitfield’s bedroom window. He believes Bow Street wants Randolph for questioning. But Father fully understands Bow Street’s aggressive nature, and he wants you to represent Randolph in case he is arrested.”
    â€œThen let me, Evie. I can go to Billingsgate alone. My representation as Mr. Sheldon’s barrister will not be compromised by your absence tonight.”
    â€œWe had an agreement, Jack. I go with you.”
    He threw up his hands and sighed. “Fine. Shall we then?” Leaning out the window, he gave the driver directions.
    The leather harness creaked and the cab jerked forward, then settled into a sway as the wheels crunched over the cobblestone streets.
    Jack returned his attention to her. The window shade was rolled up and the late-afternoon sun illuminated Evelyn’s form. She was garbed entirely in a dark cloak. Her shoes were obviously a servant’s, and the slight brim of her hat served to shield her eyes. It was not a bad choice of attire, and he wondered what she wore underneath. If he had any say, she would keep the cloak on the entire evening.
    He noticed she was studying him as well. “Do you approve of my clothing?” he asked.
    She grimaced. “I was wondering where your valet obtained such a horrid jacket.”
    Jack grinned. He was wearing a corduroy jacket, torn and badly stitched at one wrist, and a grubby shirt with enough grease stains to appear as if he had repeatedly wiped his plate with the dingy fabric. Coarse wool black trousers with frayed hems and scuffed boots completed his look. He hadn’t bothered to shave that morning and had a shadow of a dark beard.
    â€œMy valet, Martin, is familiar with several secondhand clothing dealers. He adds his own personal flair, of course.” Jack motioned to the awful stitching and grease stains. “But Martin’s talent is remarkably helpful when I am investigating some of my clients’ alleged grievances, and I need to travel to the scene of the crime.”
    A corner of her mouth curled upward. “I can only imagine.”
    â€œDon’t be fooled, Evie. Our attire will aid us, but you must be aware that nothing will draw the eye like a beautiful woman.”
    She blinked, and the thought occurred to him that she had little idea just how stunning she was. Had no man ever called her beautiful before?
    What a blasted waste, he mused. Her father had done her a grave disservice by permitting her to sequester herself in his chambers.
    The swaying of the hackney changed to a stop-and-go motion. The pungent odor of fish wafted through the window of the cab, and Jack knew they were close to their destination.
    On impulse, he reached out and tucked a loose strand of blond hair behind Evelyn’s ear. But as soon as he touched her, he felt an immediate and total attraction. His fingers lingered near her lobe, and he was mesmerized by the silky texture of her hair. He wanted to touch more of her, to take off the hat and explore the fine mass....
    He glanced at her face. She sat rigid, clearly surprised at his touch.
    Feeling a sudden rush of frustrated annoyance at his lack of control, he jerked his hand back. “Stay close to me, Evie,” he bit out. “Keep your hat on at all times. The last thing we need is your hair drawing unwanted attention. If any man approaches us, then you are to claim to be my woman. Understand?” His tone sounded unduly harsh to his own ears, but he didn’t care, wanting only for her to heed his warning.
    â€œBut surely that won’t be necessary?”
    He leaned forward, his eyes piercing her with a hard stare. “Until we find Randolph Sheldon, then it is necessary for your own safety.”
    When she opened her mouth