His son-in-law would inform the others at Eden’s Court that the duchess was quite safe with him. Thomas needn’t worry in that direction.
Head down, he picked his way through the cluster of trees that hid the cottage. Perhaps she still slept.
He could join her in the small bed once again…
More than likely, though, she’d awakened and was already fretting about their circumstances. Thomas raised his hand to clutch at his hat as a frigid gust of wind threatened to carry it away.
Trouble was, he liked the duchess.
Quite a bit. But were any of her feelings engaged?
From what he could surmise, her marriage had taught her nothing of love, or pleasure for that matter. Or passion. Had she hungered for it all these years? So much so that she might be willing to embark upon an affair with the first man who came along?
The cottage appeared in the distance, through the white wall of driven snow, at least he surmised it was the cottage.
Of all the women for him to engage his affections, why did she have to be a blooming duchess? A nabob.
He shook off his resentment, stomped his feet, and ducked through the door as quickly as possible.
She’d awakened.
His throat thickened as he took in her disheveled appearance and hesitant expression. Rich brown hair falling nearly to her waist, her gown unfastened with the seams showing. Meeting his gaze, she bit her lip and smiled hesitantly.
“Sophia will be so happy to have snow for the holidays.”
His heart skipped a beat at her thoroughly proper observation. She was not full of recriminations.
Yet.
“Christmas isn’t for over a week yet,” he pointed out. “It very well may melt before then.”
He stomped his feet to remove some of the snow and debris from his boots, but did not remove his jacket. Even inside the cottage, the chill had taken hold. Locating her wrap, he picked it up and carried it over to drop upon her shoulders.
“I’ll get a fire going, but you might want to warm up under the blanket on the bed.” Someone had stacked wood not far from the stove. Thomas busied himself doing something practical.
Heat. They would need heat. They had plenty of wine and food left over in the basket they’d brought along, the cooks at Eden’s Court having outdone themselves, so he needn’t worry about rations. He’d spotted a well nearby. Perhaps he could make up some tea…
He wasn’t certain yet if he’d like to curse the storm or welcome it.
“The horses are well?”
Thomas struck the flint and waited for the flame to take hold before answering her. He imagined this to be uncharted territory for the both of them.
“Fine, fine. Got a good look at the stable while I was at it.” He rose and finally turned to meet her gaze. “And how are you, Duchess?” He would squash any awkwardness immediately. He brushed the wood dust from his hands and strode across the room.
She did not resist him as he pulled her into his arms, tucking her head beneath his chin.
“I am…” Her arms slid up his chest to encircle his neck. “I am confused.”
He’d not had such a sweet smelling woman in his arm in ages. Soft, fragile.
“Ah, I expected you might be.” But he surprisingly found himself aroused again. “Tonight doesn’t have to be complicated though.” He’d take whatever she was willing to give.
She snuggled closer. “It does not, does it?”
Upon which words he lifted her into his arms and carried her back to the bed.
* * *
