He kissed her hair and breathed in a hint of roses. “Do I need a reason?”
“No.” She parted with a soft sigh. “No, of course you don’t.”
“Just be careful while I’m gone,” he whispered, tightening his hold. “The last time I was away—”
“I’ll be careful.” She lifted her head and regarded him. “I promise.”
“Good.”
“Are you leaving right now?”
“In about an hour.”
An enigmatic smile appeared. “We have enough time, then.”
“For what?” he asked, and then gasped as her hand slid down the front of his trousers. “No, Louisa, I think not. You’re still recovering.”
“I have a sore shoulder, that’s all.” Still caressing him, she stood on tiptoes and kissed the corner of his mouth. “The rest of me is working as it should.”
A groan escaped him as he hardened. “Are you sure?”
“Never more so, unless you can think of a better way to pass the time.”
“Hmm.” He looked away for a moment, as if pondering. “No, my sweet, I don’t believe I can.”
A little less than an hour later, dressed, packed, and with the carriage waiting, Maxwell bent and kissed Louisa’s cheek. “I have to go,” he murmured. “Behave yourself while I’m gone.”
Still abed, hair tousled, face aglow with the aftermath of pleasure, Louisa gave him a lazy smile. “I love you, Mr. Harlow.”
“I love you too,” he replied. “I’ll be back in a few days.”
Chapter Nineteen
The second visitto Knaresborough took place on a day when clouds and a cool breeze conspired to steal sunlight and warmth. Louisa didn’t care. She was simply happy to be tucked into the carriage beside Maxwell, looking forward to seeing the Fairburns, and visiting St. Giles House again.
Three weeks had passed since her accident. Other than strolls around Northcott’s gardens and a couple of accompanied visits to Highfield, she’d been confined to the house the entire time. Maxwell had continued to forbid her from taking Byron for a ride, insisting she wait a full month before taking to the saddle again. She had argued, sulked, and pouted, but to no avail. He remained firm, making it clear that his reasoning was for her own good, as well as for his peace of mind.
This outing, then, came as a welcome respite from the mundane. She barely suppressed a shiver of excitement.
Immediately, Maxwell reacted. “Are you cold, love?”
She shook her head and snuggled closer to him. “No, not at all. Just excited.”
How he fussed over her! After a rather sober beginning, their marriage was evolving into something she had only ever dreamed of. Despite giving more responsibility to Finlay, Maxwell still spent time away from home and likely always would. Yet Louisa no longer felt abandoned or secondary. Quite the contrary.
By the time they arrived in Knaresborough, the breeze had eased, and the sun had warmed things up a little. Jane was tending her rose bushes when the carriage pulled up to the rectory.
“At last!” The lady waved a greeting and hurried over to open the gate, smiling from beneath a wide-brimmed straw hat decorated with silk roses. “I’ve been so looking forward to seeing you both again.”
“Likewise, Jane.” Louisa took Maxwell’s hand as she stepped down from the carriage and then hugged her friend. “It’s lovely to see you.”
“How are you, dearest? Quite recovered from your accident?” Jane stepped back and gave Louisa a critical gaze. “You look wonderful. I trust Maxwell has taken good care of you.”
“He has indeed.” She gave Maxwell a fond look and linked her arm through his. “I could not wish for better.”
“I’m glad to hear it.” Jane went to him and offered her cheek for a kiss. “Was Louisa a difficult patient, Maxwell?”
“Horrible,” he replied, straight-face. “Absolutely horrible.”
