Read Online The Earl's Complete Surrender by Sophie Barnes - Free Book Online Page B

Scarsdale. Woodford was just a boy when it happened.”
    Scarsdale nodded. “I know. But that doesn’t mean that you should dismiss the man he’s become just because you pity the child.”
    His expression was more serious than Chloe had ever seen it. “It surprises me that you, who is always so compassionate toward others, would say such a thing.”
    â€œI just want you to be cautious where Woodford is concerned. He has always been a bit of an odd fellow.” He studied her a moment. “Do you know that he remembers everything he sees? Every little detail?”
    â€œI do, and I think it’s quite remarkable really.”
    â€œYou won’t think so when he chooses to use it against you.”
    Chloe frowned. “Are you speaking from experience?”
    Scarsdale sighed. “Yes, but it’s not a fitting topic for me to discuss with a lady. I just hope that you will trust me when I tell you that Woodford can be unpredictable. I’ve seen him get angry, Lady Newbury, and it’s not an experience that I would like to have again.”
    Recalling the discomfort she’d felt when Woodford’s calm demeanor had given way to quiet rage during their discussion in the Turkish salon a few days earlier, Chloe wasn’t sure what to think. Perhaps Scarsdale was right? “I know that you have my best interests at heart, so I will definitely take your advice into consideration. In the meantime, please rest assured that I have no intention of pursuing a deeper acquaintanceship with Lord Woodford.”
    Scarsdale practically beamed. “Indeed, I am delighted to hear it.”
    But when they alit from the curricle upon returning to Thorncliff and Scarsdale escorted Chloe back inside, the first person they happened to encounter, was of course, Woodford himself. “Lady Newbury and Lord Scarsdale,” he said, halting the moment he saw them. “I trust you had a pleasant outing?”
    â€œWe did,” Chloe said, more curious about him now than ever before because of what Scarsdale had said. She couldn’t help but wonder what might have happened between the two men.
    â€œI’m glad to hear it.” He prepared to turn away.
    â€œI see you have a book with you,” she said, not quite ready to let him leave. Ignoring Scarsdale’s immediate tug on her arm, she added, “May I ask what it’s about?” Woodford held it up for her to see and, pulling away from Scarsdale, she moved close enough so she could read the title. “ Philosophie Zoologique . How interesting.”
    â€œI doubt you’ll think so,” Woodford said.
    â€œHe’s right, Lady Newbury,” Scarsdale spoke as he came up beside her.
    Tilting her head, she smiled at both gentlemen. “Why don’t we put that theory to the test? Scarsdale and I were planning to have tea on the terrace. Perhaps you would be kind enough to join us, Woodford, so that we can discuss the subject in greater detail.”
    For a moment he looked skeptical.
    â€œCome, Lady Newbury,” Scarsdale said, taking her by the arm once more. “I do believe we’ve taken up enough of the earl’s time. He clearly has other plans for the afternoon.”
    â€œIt’s nothing that cannot wait,” Woodford said, his dark eyes lingering on Chloe until her knees grew weak.
    â€œYou see, Scarsdale? His lordship is happy to accommodate,” she said, not liking the sound of her breathy voice one bit.
    â€œSplendid,” Scarsdale clipped. He began leading Chloe through to the hallway that would take them out onto the terrace while Woodford followed behind.
    â€œSo what the author is saying, is that varying influences upon a species will result in different characteristics?” Chloe asked almost a full hour later. She’d moved to a chair that stood in the shade after the sun had begun beating down on her shoulders. The subject fascinated her, especially since