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t ardless” Priscilla steeled herself, held her body firid in preparation

“Very well” Mr Chandler brushed his hand through his ebony locks “There is nothing I could ever do or say to repay the debt I owe to Lord Morford I do not believe I would be the man I am today had it not been for his friendship and support”

Various questions forh noas not the time to ask

“Lord Morford is one of the kindest gentlereed

“Indeed Tristan has loved the same woman for many years, but Lady Morford refuses to accept his choice As his friend, I cannot allow his mother to manipulate events to suit her own purpose And, after all he has done fortrue happiness”

Priscilla’s shoulders sagged They were noble words It was reassuring to know Mr Chandler had a conscience “You would sacrifice your own happiness for that of a friend?”

“I am not a complete martyr to the cause Like most men, there is a liambler by nature What I mean is I live in the moment I do notin the past Nor do I plan for the future”

“So you base all decisions on current feelings?” Perhaps he did find her attractive Perhaps he also felt the strange connection that thrummed in the air

“I base all decisions on the current situation,” he corrected “Tonight, I played recklessly at the tables I lost more than I care to contemplate It proved a factor in my decision to make you an offer”

The sensation of ice-cold fingers crawling up her spine ain?” One did not need to be a wise seer to know her doould ease his financial burden

“Used is an ugly word We have assisted each other in order to secure our position and reputation Trust me All will be well”

Things could not be any worse No doubt his penchant for gaue

“Did you play in the card game?”

“Unfortunately, I did”

“How … how much did you lose? A hundred pounds?” One could but hope “A … a thousand?”