“Oi!” Polly said indignantly, aiming a kick at one of them. “Clear orf!
Miss Knightley came out from behind him. “Mr. St. Just, you don’t have to protect me.” Her expression was amused.
Yes, I do. It was instinct; he didn’t have a choice. Adam stared at her, at the dark eyes and the fine-boned face, and was shaken by the fierceness of his need to keep her safe.
“They’re just boys,” Miss Knightley said. “There’s no harm in them.”
“Unless you don’t mind your pocket being picked,” Polly said darkly.
Miss Knightley shrugged and smiled. She began walking again.
Adam swallowed. I have to protect her. He strode after Miss Knightley, took her hand again, and placed it firmly on his arm.
She glanced at him. He clearly saw her amusement.
Adam ignored it. He offered his other arm to Polly.
T
