From DESCENT INTO DARKNESS

She brought pleading eyes to his face. "I merely want you separated from your brother."

"Why?"

"Something happened. He..." She wrung her hands.

He studied her.

"Take me with you." Her lip quivered.

He curled his fingers around her arm. "No. It would be risky."

"Where are we going?"

"Clarissa--"

"I pray you, Duncan." She bowed her head and squeezed her eyes shut. "Please."

"It's dangerous."

She opened her eyes. "I don't mind that, as long as I'm by your side. If you left me here, it's a certainty that you'll come back a widower." Her beseeching gaze tore at his heart.

He sighed and embraced her trembling form, rubbing his hand in comfort over her back. "You're truly terrified. All right. I'll take you. It's fortunate you speak French. And French manners and customs?"

Her brow narrowed. "Of course, but what does that have to do with anything?" She stood.

"We are to be Monsieur et Madame--what French name do you fancy?"

She could do nothing but stare.

"Where are we going?"

"To see the Emperor Napoleon."

She paled and fell backward. He caught her around the waist before she hit the mattress.

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