“I … I have often been told that I should pay more attention to the smaller details,” Charlotte stammered through bated breaths as her eyes fluttered shut, her chest rising and falling in anticipation of what was to come.
Is he going to kiss me?
The thought had barely entered her mind when Jameson’s lips pressed against hers, tender and soft at first before ravishing hers with a fierce passion that took her entirely by surprise. Lifting her arms, Charlotte allowed her fingers to run over his chest, feeling the chiselled contours before making their way over his shoulders and neck and finally tangling in his hair.
Jameson’s tongue gently parted her lips, seeking the warm depths of her mouth. Yielding to his lead, Charlotte allowed him to deepen the kiss, feeling the warmth of their breaths mingling in an intimate dance. His hands gently massaged her sides, tracing a path over her hips and waist before stopping a few inches below her breasts.
Feeling as if the rest of the world had ceased to exist, Charlotte allowed her mind, body, and soul to give in to the feel of his body. Pressing her bosoms into his chest, she melted into the warmth of his embrace, sighing softly when he drew back and kissed the corners of her mouth.
“Lady Charlotte, I …” Jameson breathed heavily with his lips close to hers, locking his arms around her waist and holding her close.
The firmness of his muscles pressing into her thighs sent a strange tingling sensation through her body, leaving Charlotte wanting more of his embrace.
Reacting as if he had read her mind, Jameson dipped his head once more and kissed her lips, moaning softly into her mouth.
A knot of tension coiled in the pit of her stomach, bringing a burst of butterflies that spread through her body in a swarm of delight. The warm feelings of intimacy left her mind reeling with the tenderness of his kiss.
The sudden sound of distant voices brought Charlotte back to reality as her eyes shot open.
We can’t be found like this.
Panic raced through her mind as she used her hands against his chest to gently push him away, creating space between them in an attempt to escape.
Realizing they were no longer alone, Jameson quickly gripped her arm, pulling her closer and whispering in her ear, “I hope our paths cross again, Lady Charlotte.” His voice was sensual before letting go of her arm and stepping behind a large shrub, disappearing entirely from view.
“There you are.” Lady Thornton lifted the hem of her skirt and hurried towards Charlotte. The flustered look on her face let Charlotte know that she had been looking for her for quite some time.
How long was I gone?
Her heart beat in uneven rhythms as her eyes darted to the shrubbery and back to her best friend’s mother. She hoped and prayed with all her heart that Lady Thornton hadn’t caught a glimpse of the marquess fleeing.
“What on earth are you doing out here all on your own?” Lady Thornton clucked her tongue and fussed over Charlotte like a mother hen, tucking the strands of loose hair back into place.
“I just wanted a bit of fresh air; the heat inside the ballroom was making me a little flustered.” Charlotte breathed a sigh of relief; at least her secret meeting would remain a secret that she and the marquess could share.
Smiling sympathetically at her, Lady Thornton’s face softened. “You do look quite hot and flustered, dear. Why not come inside and have something to drink? A cool drink will help with the heat. You did very well this evening; I am proud of you.” She ran the back of her fingers over Charlotte’s hot cheek and winked.
“Thank you, Lady Thornton,” Charlotte replied with a faint smile.
“Come, let’s get you inside. Quite a few people are waiting to offer you their congratulations. You gave quite the memorable performance last night,” Lady Thornton chattered away as she placed her hand on Charlotte’s elbow, leading her towards the terrace doors.
Glancing over her shoulder, Charlotte wondered where Jameson had got to. He seemed to have a knack for appearing and disappearing at a moment’s notice.
I hope our paths cross again, Lady Charlotte …
His voice echoed in her heart, making her stomach flutter with anticipation. Just when would she see the handsome marquess again? His kiss still burned on her lips, making her hot and flustered beneath the fabric of her dress.
Chapter 11
Charlotte’s lips parted slightly as she lifted a white-gloved hand to her lips, recalling the tingling sensation from the previous evening. The marquess’s passionate kiss had taken her by surprise, yet she couldn’t say that it had been an unwelcome one. Her heart had raced, quickening her pulse while she had returned the kiss that lingered on her mind and lips.
Her hips and sides had recalled the feel of his fingers late into the night as she’d lain awake, wondering what it would feel like if he touched her skin beneath her dress …
“Charlotte?” Lady Isabella’s voice broke through her thoughts, bringing her mind back to the jostling carriage.
“Hmmm?” Charlotte lowered her fingers and quickly placed her hands in her lap; she’d barely heard a word of their discussions since leaving the house.
“Mama and I were just saying that we hope you weren’t too surprised by our sudden invitation this morning. It seemed like such a lovely day for a walk, and we get to discuss the events of last night.” Lady Isabella practically bounced in her seat from excitement.
