When the Devil Drives

wanted to scream aloud, to hit out in anger and revulsion, but a small,cold inner voice warned her to keep cool—keep talking—keepbargaining.She lifted her chin. 'What about this house—our home? Do youintend to take that too?''Originally, yes,' he said. 'But if you behave withsufficient—er—generosity to me, I might be prepared to match it,and leave it in Chalfont hands for your father's lifetime at least.' Hesmiled at her sardonically. 'Its fate rests entirely with you, beauty.'She bit her lip, her whole being cringing from the implications in hiswords. 'And the Craft Company? Will you leave that alone too?''I think you're beginning to overestimate the price of your charms,'Cal Blackstone said drily. 'No, my investment in the Craft Companystays—as insurance, if you like, for your continuing good behaviour.'Joanna closed her eyes for a moment. She said evenly, 'I supposethere's no point in appealing to your better nature. Reminding youthat there are normal standards of decency.''Tell me about it,' he said laconically. He glanced up at the portraitover the fireplace and his expression hardened. 'At least I'm notevicting you without notice, throwing you on to the street.''And if I tell you that I do have standards—that I have my pride andmy self-respect? And that I'd rather starve in the gutter than acceptany part of your revolting terms?'He shrugged again. 'Then that can be quite easily arranged,' hereturned. 'The choice is yours. But I strongly advise you to think myoffer over. You've got twenty-four hours.'