‘Yes, they want each other badly. But there’s a meddlesome brother that’s cottoned on to what they’re up to, and he’s trying to put a stop to it to save her reputation.’
‘Oh dear.’
‘Yes, there’s going to be an altercation at the family manor.’ He frowns and narrows his eyes at me for dramatic effect.
I giggle. ‘Well, good on him for trying. She sounds like she’s got herself into a right pickle with that Nathaniel.’
Dain gazes down at me from his propped-elbow position. ‘Hmm, I think she’s too far gone. She’s in love with Nathaniel and doesn’twantto be saved.’
I reach up and gently rub my thumb across his bottom lip. ‘I know the feeling.’
Dain’s lip quivers under my thumb, and his dark-brown eyes soften. ‘Is it silly to miss you when you’re only going to be away for a few days?’ he asks, referring to my impending trip to Oxford.
My chest pangs at his doleful expression. ‘No, it’s not silly ...’ I murmur. ‘It’s bloody ridiculous. I’ll be back before you know it.’
He looks appeased; and we kiss tenderly, his fingers lightly stroking my bare back, sending shivers up and down my spine. His hand shifts down to cup my butt cheek, squeezing it, and I sigh against his lips. ‘Sorry, Ireallyhave to get up. Can we take a rain check?’
Dain pulls back from me, looking hesitant.
A flicker of fear runs through me. ‘What’s wrong?’
‘Nothing. But, um, I don’t suppose you want to spend tonight in my room before you leave?’
My facial muscles constrict in shock, but I try not to show it. Up until now, I still haven’t been allowed to see his room, so I know this is a big deal.
I take his hand and kiss it. ‘I’d behonoured, kind sir.’
Inwardly, I gulp.Is this where I find out he has a dead bat collection—or something worse?
***
On the train to Leeds, I’m away with the fairies, meditating on last night’s tryst with Dain; from beginning to end—he was superb. Images float into my mind: the way he kissed my lips and neck in the candlelight, the deferential care and attention he paid to my breasts, the aching need when he caressed my clit. I’m throbbing just thinking about it. He’s making me feel unhinged, like I’m floating across the fields in a dream. But a message from him reminds me it’s all too real.
Dain:Can’t stop thinking about you. Hope your meeting goes well.
Me:Me too. I mean thinking about you. Not my meeting lol.
Dain:Haha, glad to hear it. I’ve been readying my room and imagining some of the delightful ways we can spend the evening. It’s proving mightily distracting trying to write the altercation at the manor, so I’m writing the next spicy scene instead (winking face emoji).
Readying his room? I’m not sure what he means by that. Hiding all the dead bats? Nevertheless, I like that he’s getting all hot and horny thinking about me. I’m about to reply, but I get a more practical message from Klint.
Klint:What time is your train arriving tomorrow?
Me (sighing):2.15pm.
Klint:OK. So you won’t want lunch?
Me:No thanks.
Klint:See you then.
Me:(Thumbs-up emoji)
Great. Thank you, Klint, for ruining my lovely sexting. With two message threads to two different men going on, I have to be careful not to send my next message to Klint when it’s meant for Dain.
Me:Glad to hear I’m inspiring your spicy scene lol. Can’t wait to read that! Looking forward to spending the night with you xx
Dain:Me too xx
