Despite the trepidation that welled up in Daphne's chest, she nodded, and said, "Indeed."
Two
Alex ran his hand over the cool stones of the castle's gatehouse as he inspected the damage. His mind drifted back to thoughts of Daphne. He had found himself instantly captivated by her yesterday, and rather surprised at his reaction. He’d known a little about the lady before their introduction as Camden and Rebecca were quite fond of her, and spoke of her often, but he’d been wholly unprepared for the attraction he had experienced upon seeing her.
The woman was stunning with her golden curls and sparkling blue eyes. Her sensual lips and feminine curves begged for his touch. He grinned to himself. Best of all, Daphne was a widow which made her prime for the taking.
And take her he would.
He doubted she’d fall at his feet as so many of his past paramours had, but the fact only made her more interesting. After all, what rogue didn't like a challenge?
Come to think of it, he had never had to put much effort into bedding a woman. Daphne would be different. Something about her told him she would make him work for her favors.
Still, he had no reason to believe he would lose. He had witnessed a spark of attraction in the depths of her eyes that belied her cool exterior, and before she'd finished her blatant inspection of him, he had determined to have her in his bed.
Even now, nearly twenty-four hours later, he could not stop the image of her laying down with her creamy skin exposed and long blond hair spread around her, a wanton gleam in her blue eyes and come hither smirk tilting her bow-shaped lips from running through his mind. He would have her, no doubt about it.
Alex looked up from his task and, as if he’d conjured her, his gaze landed on Daphne strolling toward the castle with a small boy at her side. Most likely her son, he thought, as he turned away from the gatehouse wall to give her his full attention. He leaned against the wall and openly stared at her as she approached.
Daphne's cheeks flushed a becoming shade of pink when she noticed Alex watching her. He smiled before adjusting his cravat, then striding confidently across the lawn to meet her. “Good day, Daphne.”
She tightened her jaw and pursed her lips into a thin line then said, “Lord Brunsford.”
“Come now, love, there is no reason for such formality. Not out here in the country and certainly not among family and close friends.”
She narrowed her gaze, her scowl deepening as her brow furrowed. “On the contrary, my lord,” she said coldly. “Propriety is something I take seriously and we are neither family nor friends.”
Alex's lips curled up in amusement and mischief sparkled in his eyes as he chuckled. “Then I shall work to rectify that.”
She sighed in what seemed like frustration, then said, "You are most incorrigible."
"I find that life is far more enjoyable when one takes the time to be incorrigible." He took a step closer, then kneeled down, turning his attention to her son. "And who might this young man be?"
The boy grinned. “Mama may disagree, but I like you already. I am Viscount Gilford, but you may call me Henry.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Henry.” Alex reached out his hand, then shook the boy’s. “I think we will be great friends.”
“I would like that.” Henry hesitated for a moment, looking up at Daphne, then added, “Alex.”
To her credit, she did not reprimand the boy but gave him a warm smile instead. Alex straightened to his full height before addressing her again. "I doubt Henry wants to spend his time inside with the ladies. He is welcome to remain out here. I'd be happy to keep an eye on him."
Daphne shook her head, blond curls shining in the sunlight. “That is not necessary.” She reached down and clasped Henry’s hand. “Come along.”
The boy's smile fell, but he did not resist as she started walking toward the keep.
“Wait,” Alex called after them.
Daphne’s spine stiffened, then she looked back at him, her lips in a tight line.
“It truly would not be any trouble. In fact it would be an honor to spend the afternoon with young Henry. And Camden is nearby as well.” Alex nodded across the bailey to where Camden stood. “If you do not trust me, surely you trust Henry’s uncle.”
Henry tugged at her skirt, hope sparking in his blue eyes. “Please, Mama? I would be dreadfully bored in there.” He gave an impish smile. “And I have missed Uncle Camden fiercely. I promise to behave.”
Daphne nibbled her lower lip as she spared another look in Camden’s direction.
"Please, Mama," Henry begged.
She released her lip with a defeated sigh. “Very well, but stay away from the outbuildings. They are not at all safe.” She peered at Alex for a heartbeat before adding, “And mind the adults.”
