Daphne grabbed his wandering hand and pushed it away. “One kiss, but no touching,” she warned with a wag of her finger.
He chuckled at her audacity and responded with an amused, “As you wish.”
Daphne smiled smugly before planting her hands on her hips and adding, “And, I will be the one to initiate them.” She spun on her heels and marched across the expansive lawn.
Alex leaned against a tree, his gaze lingering on her figure as she moved further away, the sway of her hips tugging at his desire and his sense of restraint. He ached to run after her and take her in his arms, but was determined not to frighten her away - so instead he watched her leave, reminding himself that the challenge would make his victory all the sweeter.
Five
Daphne stood in a corner near a large floor to ceiling window, the garden just visible beyond. Her attention was wholly on Phoebe, seated at the grand pianoforte surrounded by a small audience. Guests filled the music room for Lord and Lady Chesterfield’s musical, their conversation coming in waves like a high tide—rushing in then ebbing away. She opened her ivory fan against her face, almost as if she could hide from the room behind it. Outside, the south lawn was dotted with intricately-patterned Turkish mats laid out around low tables, and chairs ready for guests to rest while they enjoyed the picnic after the concert.
Her gaze halted where Rebecca and Camden sat nestled together on a sofa with Lady Chesterfield across from them. There was still no sign of Lord Brunsford. Daphne could only hope he would remain elusive. Much to her dismay, she had arrived late to the gathering and hadn't had the opportunity to speak with Rebecca before the musical began.
She cast her gaze around the rom searching again for Lord Brunsford. Irritated, Daphne waved her fan a bit faster. She did not care for the way the rogue affected her. She should not give a fig whether or not he arrived. They had a bargain—she had agreed to the terms—now she must fulfill them. Still, if he stayed away, it would limit the amount of time she had to spend in his company and the kisses they would share. Which suited her perfectly, so why was she upset?
Phoebe played the final notes then stood and curtseyed. Daphne clapped, along with the other guests, before moving to Phoebe's side. “You played beautifully as always.”
“Thank you. But I must confess, I am glad to be finished.” Phoebe turned toward the window. “I wish to be outside enjoying this glorious day.”
“Indeed,” Daphne agreed as she followed the direction of Phoebe’s gaze. Fluffy white clouds drifted across the cerulean sky and the sun shone brightly while a gentle breeze ruffled the curtains. No doubt the late afternoon air would be refreshing.
“Let us gather outside for the picnic,” Lady Chesterfield said as servants opened the terrace doors.
Daphne needed no further invitation. She hooked her arm through Phoebe’s and, together, they made their way down to the lawn.
“Let us join Rebecca and Camden.” Phoebe nodded to a large lime tree where the couple stood beneath the shade of its branches.
Daphne nodded, her stride matching Phoebe’s. She glanced about the expanse of lush green grass and frolicking guests, looking once more for Lord Brunsford. Still no sign of him. Perhaps, he would not come at all. Regardless, it was a glorious afternoon and she meant to enjoy herself.
Camden bowed as she and Phoebe approached. When he straightened, he said, “I was about to fetch a lemonade for Rebecca. Might I get something for the two of you as well?”
“That would be lovely, thank you.” Daphne nodded her gratitude.
Phoebe sidled up to Rebecca, arranging her skirts as she sat. “Lemonade is perfect.”
“I’ll be back in a trice.” Camden turned and strode toward the refreshment tent.
Daphne lowered herself to the woven mat spread out under the tree. Rebecca settled, then angled her head toward Phoebe. “It seems Mother outdid herself this year. Has any gentleman captured your notice?”
A light blush colored Phoebe’s cheeks. “I find several to be handsome.”
"Anyone in particular?" Rebecca asked.
“Lord Hughton is rather dashing, but I have not captured his notice. I do hope to dance with him at the ball.”
"Then you shall." Rebecca gave a teasing grin. "And perhaps by nights end, he will be courting you. Just imagine, you the wife of a marquess."
“Hush before you are overheard.” Phoebe playfully swatted Rebecca with her fan. “Camden is coming and Alex has joined him.”
Daphne's eyes widened as she looked up and locked gazes with Alex. His roguish grin sent a flurry of butterflies through her belly, contradicting the knot of apprehension that had been there. No matter how hard she tried not to, Daphne felt excited by his presence—the dratted rogue! Her cheeks heated as she nervously fidgeted with the ribbons on her bonnet.
Camden handed Phoebe and Rebecca a lemonade before seating himself beside Rebecca.
“You are looking lovely today,” Alex said as he handed Daphne her drink. He lowered himself to the mat and placed a tray of finger sandwiches and fruit in the middle.
Heat spread through Daphne as she said, "And you as well." Then she quickly added, "Handsome that is." She averted her gaze to the tray. Why did he unsettle her so? Was it simply because she knew the danger he presented or was it something more?
Phoebe reached for a plump strawberry then popped it into her mouth before turning to Camden. “How are the repairs coming?” she asked.
