* * *
The Carnival Varletfeatured exotic exhibits and sensational death-defying acts. They were here in London on limited engagement before traveling across the empire.
Sophia had never seen anything like it. In fact, it stole her breath at first.
She noticed, however, that although the crowds consisted mostly of working-class folks and merchants, other gentlemen and ladies were present as well. She could reassure herself she was not doing something so very scandalous after all.
But what would Harold say? Or his father and mother? What would Mr. Scofield and her mother say if they knew she were here alone, with a man to whom she’d not been properly introduced?
As Captain Brookes protectively guided her through the crowds, somehow, in that moment, none of it mattered.
For even though she was acting impetuously, risking her engagement and reputation even, she’d never felt safer in her entire life. “To where have you traveled, Captain?” She was suddenly curious to know more about him. “Have you ever seen a lion in the wild?”
His teeth gleamed white as he smiled back at her. “India, Africa, of course the Peninsula and all throughout the continent. I never made it to the Americas, though. And in answer to your other question, I have not. I’ve met men who have, however, in fact, I attended one of their funerals.”
“So, they are dangerous, then?”
He paused a moment before answering her. “They feel threatened by man. They’ve grown to learn that men are hunters. They’ve seen the effects of a weapon. Our relationship between them has developed into one of sportsmanship and fear. And so yes, they are dangerous.”
“Do you enjoy travelling?” Would he regret settling down? He’d said he was going to become a country gentleman. This was somehow difficult to imagine, and yet, she could not see him uncomfortable in any situation. He seemed to be so… adaptable.
“I am intrigued by different cultures. Huge populations of people see the world in a completely different light than we, the British, the so-called civilized world do. Some worship animals. Some believe our spirits pass through to different beings after death. They eat different foods, with exotic spices and meats. Some won’t eat meat at all, for they believe it to have as much of a soul as you and I.”
Sophia peppered him with questions as he maneuvered her through the crowds. What would it be like to travel to such places? His descriptions and answers gradually opened an entirely new paradigm in her mind.
Occasionally, he’d point out one exhibit or another, noting something unique or amusing. She held his arm comfortably and only released it when he reached into his pocket to pay for the confectionary he’d purchased for them to share.
He handed the paper-wrapped pastry to her and paid the vendor. It was covered in powdered sugar and smelled heavenly. She’d not had tea today; the last time she’d had anything to eat was first thing this morning. She took a bite, and then a little larger one. As she did so, the other end of the pastry flipped up and rubbed against the tip of her nose. A few crumbs got away from her and fell into her décolletage.
Captain Brookes’ eyes teased as he watched her, but they weren’t mocking. Instead, they laughed with her, reveled in her enjoyment, it seemed, of such a simple treat.
He was having fun with her!
Sophia was so very aware of his presence, of his every move, his every breath. He reached out, holding a folded handkerchief as though he would wipe the sugar away, but then stopped himself.
“What is it?” He looked to be suddenly fascinated by something.
And then he leaned forward and touched his lips to the side of her nose. Shocked but intrigued, she froze. The texture of his tongue lingered on her skin as he licked the sugar off. Surely, she was going to turn into a puddle of liquid, right here, in the middle of the circus!
The corners of his eyes crinkled when he grinned, unashamedly. “I could not pass up such temptation as Sophia Babineaux embellished with sugar.”
What did one say to that?
Heat rushed up her neck and into her face as she looked down at the pastry. Not knowing exactly how to respond, she lifted it to his lips.
Smiling devilishly, he tilted his head forward and tore off a bite with just his teeth.
Oh, Lord, help me!
She ought not to have allowed Rhoda to leave her alone in his rakishly charming company. She cleared her throat and forced her mind to come up with some coherent conversation. “Will you take me to the lions’ den?”
He smiled.
And then he chuckled.
“Your wish is my command.” They strolled past several vendor booths. Brookes’ mind was obviously not as befuddled as hers, as he easily pursued proper conversation.
“Tell me about your family, Miss Babineaux.”
