“The important thing is that we’re together now.” She kissed the corner of his mouth.
Laying back, he pulled her with him. “Tell me about painting.”
Throwing her head back, she looked up at the ceiling to gather her thoughts. “I used to paint when I was young, but then my parents died, and I stopped. When you left, it was like my fingers ached to just create something.” She shook her head, laughing to herself. “I started painting again and haven’t stopped. I love it, Henry.”
“You’re extremely talented. I love seeing your work around the house. You really capture the subject beautifully.” He stroked her shoulder and buried his head in her hair.
“Will you let me paint you one day?” She moaned when his lips found the curve of her neck.
“Yes.” His voice was husky as he trailed kisses to her jaw.
“Naked?” she challenged.
Rearing up, he looked at her, eyes wide. “Yes,” he said firmly. “As long as you’re naked with me.” His voice was deep and seductive. His hand traveled up her bare leg while his lips captured hers.
She knew the hour was late, and if she didn’t leave right away, she never would.
Julia reluctantly ended their kiss and rolled out of his embrace. She rose out of the bed.
“Where are you going?” he groaned defiantly. Leaning on one elbow, his gaze followed her every move as she picked up her discarded clothing.
“I have to go repair myself and then check on the children.” Putting on her shift, she searched for her stays but couldn’t find them.
Leaving the bed, he walked to her and pulled her into his naked body. “I can’t wait until we’re married. I’m never letting you leave our bed.”
“I will have to leave some time, my lord.” She pushed him away and picked up her dress off the floor.
“Would you like me to fasten it?” Henry asked while putting on his breeches.
“No, I’m going to run to my room. No one will see me.” She walked to him, stood on her tiptoes, and pressed an ardent kiss to his lips. “I’ll see you later.” She couldn’t help her smile as she walked backwards to the door.
“Later indeed, Lady Julia.” He gave her a playful wink.
She laughed and turned to the door, so ridiculously happy for once.
Opening the door, she didn’t register the loud gasp until it was too late. She tried to avoid the wide gray eyes staring at her. She did not want to see the disappointment or the betrayal her cousin must be feeling. After all, Julia and Henry had been sneaking around behind the backs of the two people who they loved as siblings.
Livie clutched her husband’s arm. Something was horribly wrong. Julia’s only thought was to try to explain that she and Henry were together now. Before she could say anything, she was stopped short by Remington’s cold voice.
“What the bloody hell is going on here?”
Wedding bells for Lady J? It will shock you all to know the groom is no other than the Marquess of H. Does their speedy engagement have anything to do with the fact that the marquess was removed from the Duke of K’s home? How is the Duke of S handling the cut direct?
“What the bloody hell is going on here?” Karrington’s harsh voice cut through the haze that Henry was in. His eyes focused on the cold, hard stare of his friend and Livie’s disbelieving expression. Henry was suddenly aware that he was practically naked, wearing nothing but his trousers. Before he could locate his shirt or jacket, his friend charged toward him.
“You fucking bastard! I trusted you in my home!” Karrington was on him before he had the good sense to move.
The punch to his jaw stung. The women screamed in protest, but he could not defend himself. Surely, he deserved his friend’s wrath.
“Your Grace, stop it this instant!” Henry could hear Livie’s frantic voice from where he now lay on the floor clenching his sore jaw.
“I am a grown woman, Remington. I assure you, I do not need you to defend my honor.” Julia stood in front of Henry, protecting him from Karrington.
Henry smiled, the movement causing his jaw to ache even more. Julia was magnificent. He couldn’t wait to marry her.
Karrington’s angry gaze turned to Julia, and Henry had the urge to stand and protect her. “This is not about your honor. To be honest, I’m not sure you have any!”
“That’s enough, Remington!” Livie closed the door behind her, looking exceptionally pale. She walked deeper into the room to stand next to her husband.
