Page 74 of Defending the Duke (The St. Clairs 4)

Would it mean he would rape her? Or kill her?

Perhaps both. She—and Hannah—would pay the price for her actions. Laurel knew their lives were in danger. They had to find a way to escape.

“Bind their wrists,” Farmon instructed his minion.

Braxton had come prepared. He removed a cord from his coat pocket and wrapped it around her wrists, knotting it securely. He pulled another length from the other pocket and did the same to Hannah.

“Take them upstairs.”

The henchman opened the door and grasped both women by their elbows. He led them along the narrow passageway. They passed a man, who averted his eyes, keeping them on the ground. When they reached a back staircase, Braxton ordered them up it. Opening the first door on the right once they reached the upper floor, he shoved them inside and followed, closing the door behind him.

“You’re in a brothel. Save your voices because screams are ignored. If you give me any trouble, I’ll gag you and tie you to the bed and let every customer here take a turn with both of you.” He looked to Hannah. “Virgins are especially prized.”

Hannah gagged. She turned and retched into a nearby chamber pot. The man laughed and exited the room. Laurel heard the lock turn.

She went to Hannah and held her elbow. The vomiting finally ceased. Hannah looked at her, misery filling her face.

“What are we going to do, Laurel?”

With determination, she said, “We are going to find a way out of here.”

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