Slowly, their breathing returned to normal, and Bradford held her close, running his fingers through her hair. “I’ve never wanted anyone like this,” he murmured, his voice rough with emotion. “I do not know what to make of it, Skye.”
She nestled her head against his chest, feeling his heartbeat against her. “I feel the same,” she whispered. “I needed... you.”
He traced her jawline with his stubble-covered chin, his touch sending shivers down her spine. “Here, tonight in this place, in this room, I am yours,” he replied, his voice low and husky.
The fire crackled in the background, casting flickering shadows on the wall, and outside the snow continued to fall, creating a world of its own. But for now, they were safe in each other’s arms, lost in the moment's magic.
The warmth of their joining lingered in the air as she nuzzled against his chest, inhaling his scent - a mix of pine and musk. “Then let us never leave this room,” she said softly, her eyes still closed, savoring the moment.
He chuckled, kissing the top of her head. “My lady, I think that might be impossible,” he teased. “But this shall not be the end for us. We will find ways to sneak away from prying eyes. Do not fret.”
Their lips met again in a tender kiss, their passion now replaced by a slow, sensual dance of tongues that left them both breathless once more. As they delighted in each other, they felt the warmth of the fire on their skin, the snowflakes softly tapping against the windowpanes, and the promise of passion yet to come.
With a sigh of contentment, Skye allowed herself to be enveloped in the warmth of her lover’s embrace, her body still tingling from their earlier escapades. And as the snow continued to fall outside, blanketing the world in its serene beauty, she realized that the possibility of happiness with Bradford Seymore, Marquess Greenwich, was a chance she was willing to take. For it appeared the entire universe had conspired to bring them together, amidst the swirling dance of snowflakes and the warmth of their newfound affection.
Six
Skye took a delicate bite of the roast pheasant, savoring the rich flavors that burst across her tongue. Across from her at the long dining table, Bradford watched her intently, admiring the rosy glow of her cheeks in the flickering firelight.
“I do so look forward to this afternoon’s activities,” Skye said, dabbing at her lips with a linen napkin.
Bradford smiled, his blue eyes glinting with mischief. “I believe you shall find the afternoon’s activities quite enjoyable, my lady.”
Skye tilted her head, intrigued by the hint of mystery in his voice. “And why is that, my lord? Have you some surprise in store?”
“You shall have to wait and see,” he replied lightly, though inwardly his heart quickened at the thought of whisking her away on a private sleigh ride through the snow-blanketed hills and valleys surrounding the inn.
She laughed, a musical sound that made his breath catch. “You are incorrigible, keeping a lady in such suspense!” She leaned forward, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “I shall get it out of you yet, Lord Greenwich.”
“I look forward to you trying, my lady,” he said, desire stirring as he imagined stealing a kiss from those sweet lips during their sleigh ride tryst. For now, he would savor keeping her guessing, even as his own anticipation mounted.
Just before luncheon, Bradford had discreetly arranged for the sleigh to be prepared, speaking in hushed tones with the innkeeper. He pressed a few extra coins into the man’s palm, ensuring their ride would not be interrupted.
As he waited for the perfect moment, Bradford’s gaze lingered on Skye. Her golden curls shone in the winter sunlight streaming through the dining-room windows. She laughed gaily at some remark from a fellow guest, the sound warming him more than any fire could.
Soon, he thought, drinking in her beauty. Soon he would have her all to himself, if only for a little while. The sleigh awaited, the blankets were ready, and the hilltop clearing he had scouted earlier would make a fine, secluded spot to steal more than just a kiss from his captivating companion. Anticipation simmered within him.
Meanwhile, Skye noticed the inn staff bustling about, preparing for something. She spotted stable hands leading out finely groomed horses, their coats glossy and plumes festive. Maids came through the dining room, caring blankets and warming bricks with quiet efficiency.
What are they up to? Skye wondered, intrigued. She glanced at Bradford, but he seemed occupied scanning a newspaper, giving nothing away. Still, she sensed an air of expectancy about him, though she could not guess the reason.
Something delightful is afoot, she thought with a smile. For now, the mystery continued, even as behind his paper Bradford could barely contain his eagerness for their imminent sleigh ride rendezvous.
He folded his newspaper and stood, straightening his waistcoat, then approached Skye and offered her a slight bow.
“My lady, might I interest you in some fresh air?” he asked, extending his arm. “The snow has slowed, and it’s a fine day for a stroll.”
Skye’s eyes lit up at the prospect. “Why yes, my lord, that sounds divine.” She placed her gloved hand in the crook of his elbow. “Though I wager you have more planned than just a simple walk around the grounds.”
His mouth quirked. “You know me too well, Lady Skye. I may have one or two surprises in store.”
Her musical laugh filled the room. “Excellent! I do love surprises.”
Together they made their way outside, the cold air invigorating after the stuffy warmth of the inn. Skye gasped as she took in the pristine snow coating the landscape, glittering under the winter sun. In the distance, a sleigh awaited, two impressive horses pawing the ground impatiently.
“My lord, you shouldn’t have,” she exclaimed. She turned to him, cheeks flushed prettily from the chill. “This is too much. I don’t know how to thank you.”
His eyes smoldered as they roamed her face. “I can think of a few ways, my lady,” he murmured. Taking her hand, he guided her toward the sleigh and the romantic adventure that awaited.
