Starved Beast. Part 21

"He walked back around the table, again starring at Nicolette and Adalyn before returning to Esme and peering at her cleavage.

'You see, when the Comtessa was at the lake and she mislaid a purse of gold coins that constituted the down payment on her dowry. So we're suggesting this as a deal, that in return for that purse and the sexual favors of the fine ladies in this room, we'll provide you with a bride. The Comtessa's family may not like the marriage. They'll deem it inappropriate and disinherit her, but they won't be able to undo it.'

'I don't have the purse, ' I declared abruptly. 'I lost it. And not only that, but I'm not ready to get married.'

At this, the soldier grabbed hold of Isabelle and without any warning, he wrapped his arm round her chest and he slid a knife down through the top of her dress and into her cleavage, slicing into the cloth like butter and renting it apart. Isabelle struggled against him and protested, but despite her vigorous complaint