A traveler’s worst nightmare!  A coal black stallion stepped out of the shadowy trees and reared up directly in front of the exhausted horses pulling the shabby curricle, bringing them to an abrupt halt.  An expression of outrage mixed with fear flared on the thin face of the driver, and he called out in a voice reedy with fear.

            “What is the meaning of this?”

            “Stand and deliver!” answered the black-clad rider. 

            “You . . . you villain.  Do you have any idea who I am?”  The driver screeched, standing up and fumbling in one of the deep pockets of his many-caped greatcoat.

            “No, but I am sure you plan to tell me,” The highwayman said, brandishing a pistol, “and I suggest you pull out nothing more than your card from that pocket.”

            The man pulled his hand out of his pocket and sat abruptly, watching the waving pistol as though it were a snake.  “I’ll have you know that I am the cousin and heir of the earl of Woodham.  He won’t let this outrage go unanswered, I assure you.”

            “Wonderful.  I am glad to hear that. Now, empty your pockets of valuables and throw them on the ground,” The pistol waved towards the dusty road.  “As soon as you do as I say, I’ll let you continue on your way.”

At his friend's urging, Tony rose and slipped his arm under Gabrielle’s knees, effortlessly lifting her.  Unsure of her safety for a moment, Gabrielle flung her arm around his neck, pulling her body closer to his.  The pressure of her breasts against his chest sent a thrill through her again, but this one went straight to her loins.  As she gazed up at her tall samaritan, he shifted his gaze downward and stopped his progress towards the phaeton.  Grey eyes and blue met and locked, holding each other in thrall until, with a shiver of his own, Tony looked away.  Gabrielle felt the loss of his regard like a shock.