“Except, your conversations with me were noted at the very beginning of the Season,” he reminded her.
“It is likely few would have taken notice if someone had not overheard me reject you.” She laughed. “We can only hope that the gossips now believe that I am simply your matchmaker.”
It was her rejection at the ball and then in Hyde Park that had attracted the gossips. “Is that the only reason you want a rake?”
Octavia lifted the glass of brandy to her lips and sipped, her eyes darkening to cobalt. Then she smiled slowly and cocked her head.
“I have been told that a rake makes the best lover, or they would not have such a reputation. I am also to understand that while a rake is seeking pleasure, he also provides it. Further he is skilled at avoiding any form of compromising situations.” She quirked an eyebrow. “An honorable rake will understand a need for discretion.”
“I can promise that this rake does enjoy giving and receiving pleasure. I also understand that when a lady wishes her affairs to remain private, they will remain so.”
“Perhaps in time we shall see.” She smiled again before taking another sip of brandy.
Was Lady Kepple now toying with him? Was the game afoot or was she still making a determination of whether she would allow him in her bed? If still undecided, then Angelo knew that he would need to begin his seduction in earnest.
“Will you be dining in here, as is your habit, or in the dining room this evening,” the housekeeper asked.
She glanced at Angelo. “Which do you prefer?”
“You and I have no need for such formality. If you wish to dine in here, then so do I.”
“Please have dinner placed on the table before the window.”
“Yes, Lady Kepple.”
Angelo glanced across the room. There was a table large enough for a game of cards, or any game for that matter, and four chairs, and perfect for dinner.
“I enjoy watching those out on the street,” she said as footmen entered and placed dishes on the table. “From here, I can look down and see everything that happens on this street, whereas they cannot see me, unless they were to move out into the street and look up, which they never do.”
Angelo stood and offered his arm. “Shall we be spectators together?”
“I would like that very much, Lord Bolton.”
Chapter 13
If the setting seemed intimate before, while they sipped tea by the fire, it was even more so dining alone.
She should not have invited Lord Bolton to remain. At least that was what her mind was screaming, but the rest of her wanted him here. Needed him, and once again, Octavia was questioning why.
Yes, she wanted a lover, but did she also want companionship? Someone to lean on, have scandalous conversations with. Someone to hold her. She was not looking for a permanent relationship and would never marry again, but the warmth of a true friend had been lacking for years. Could she find that in Lord Bolton?
Except, he could only be that for a short time as he was to find a wife this Season and she would never allow such a friendship to continue, then Octavia would be alone again.
It was best that she considered Bolton only for her original intention.
After she was seated, she glanced down at the plate of food. “As I am here alone, the meals are light and one course,” she apologized. “I am certain you are used to more elaborate dinners.”
“I too, live alone,” he reminded her. “Many of my meals, when not taken at my parents’, come from a tavern,” he chuckled. “This is perfect.”
She’d been raised by a duke and he a marquess and the meal before them, a plate with roast chicken, vegetables, and bread, would have been served to a servant, not the family. However, Octavia preferred the simpleness of it all.
“It is still raining,” he observed looking out the window.
“I will provide you with an umbrella when you leave.”
Lord Bolton reached over and placed his hand over hers. “I would much rather remain here, with you. There are still two rules that you have not told me about.” His gaze drifted lower. “Have I mentioned how tantalizing you are with your hair down, and the blue of the gown quite complements your eyes.” His gaze lingered on her breasts long enough that they began to feel heavy and her bodice tight.
It was best that he left, or she may become weak and throw caution to the wind.
