“How are the horses faring? You have some prize thoroughbreds stabled here.”
“They’re managing quite well. The grooms have cleared off much of the paddock area to allow the horses to walk around. We’ll see about having them actually run through their paces once the snowfall begins to ease.”
“I’m glad they are all safe, grooms and horses.”
“Yes, it is quite dangerous outside.”
“Are you here because you intend to join me for breakfast?”
“Yes, if you don’t mind.”
She nodded. “I have nothing else pressing, as must be obvious. I would be honored to have you join me.”
In truth, she was ecstatic.
However, she tried to school her features in order not to appear too obvious.
To her dismay, he tossed her another knowing grin. “Admit it, Temple. You enjoy my company.”
How was this man able to recognize her every feeling and expression?
“You are useful to have around,” she said with a casual air, “since I can do nothing with a busted shoulder and am quite bored.”
He gave her chin a light tweak. “As I am enjoying your company,” he said with surprising earnestness.
Ailis doubted this reclusive duke was as eager for her company as she was for his. She hardly considered herself scintillating, since she had been groggy and dazed for most of these past few days.
He left her side to start rifling through his wardrobe, and had just taken out a waistcoat for himself when Martha lumbered back in with a tray in hand. “Your Grace, I wondered whether you would join Miss Temple.”
“I shall. Do you mind bringing up a plate for me? And some coffee, too.”
“At once, Your Grace.” She set Ailis’s breakfast on the small table and then scurried off again.
He shrugged into his waistcoat, a brown leather and wool vest designed more for a day of field work than gentlemanly elegance. “Well, Temple. What do you think?”
She eyed him curiously. “What do I think of your waistcoat?”
“No, of our next kiss. Number three, to be precise. Are you ready for it?”
Her mouth gaped open.
He tucked a finger under her chin and nudged it upward to close her mouth. “Ah, and your eyes are growing wide again. Too soon for you?”
“No, it’s just… I look a mess. How can you want to kiss me now?”
He cast her an indulgent smile. “It is only your lips that matter, and they look rosy and sweet.”
“They do?” She gave them a nervous lick.
“Yes, Temple.” He stepped closer and gently cupped her cheek. “Unless you do not want me to—”
“Oh, I do. The charity business, you know. And we are only at three kisses if you count this upcoming one, and still have seven more to go after this.”
He smiled. “Close your eyes, love.”
She squeezed them tightly shut.
The butterflies in her stomach were in a wild flutter and she felt heat rush into her cheeks. She wanted the kiss, but was disconcerted because she hadn’t expected him to kiss her before breakfast.
