Julian bit his lip to keep from smiling and was reminded of Cait’s innocence. If he were to purchase the cape for her, rumors would abound as to the impropriety of their relationship, and she’d likely be labeled his mistress if they did not quickly wed. However, if a brother-in-law purchased one for his wife and her sister, nobody would question the reason.
“I will not allow you to touch your inheritance,” Kilsyth argued.
Cait’s back stiffened. “I am three and twenty, Lord Kilsyth. Only I decide what is allowed.”
Julian was grateful that she’d never been his teacher as he may have been terrified if she’d used such a rigid tone in speaking to him.
The corner of Eve’s mouth twitched, and she snorted.
“Yes, well…” Kilsyth cleared his throat. “Please allow me to do this, Cait.”
“Please, Cait,” Eve said.
“Kilsyth should commission one for you, and Norbright for Claudia, which is a perfect solution,” Cait offered.
If she had an inheritance, why was she teaching, unless it wasn’t so very much? Not that he would be so rude as to ask.
“It appears there is nothing further to plan until we have the cloaks,” Kilsyth announced as he placed a hand at the small of Eve’s back.
Likely his friend wished to retire since he’d only married the day before. If he had a new bride, Julian wouldn’t be visiting with friends, instead he’d be enjoying intimacies in the bedchamber.
He glanced at Cait and thoughts of her in his bed filled his mind. He would love to see her blonde hair fanned out on a pillow as he came over her and kissed her senseless before exploring the rest of her body, and bringing her pleasure that she had never known, let alone imagined.
Tasting her lips last night had not been nearly enough to satisfy him, especially now that he had held her. She was perfectly formed beneath her modest grey gown.
Julian shifted as his thoughts caused stirring in his loins and he glanced away. Desiring Cait would only lead to discomfort.
“We bid you goodnight,” Kilsyth stated and led his wife from the parlor.
“Pickmore, if you would be so kind as to help me up the stairs,” Keegan said. “I used to count on Ashford for such, but now that he is indisposed, I must rely on you.”
“Are you retiring?” Julian asked. It was early for the bachelors who did not have a lovely companion.
“Billiards,” Pickmore said. “He has yet to beat me since he cannot play very well with a crutch under one arm.” He laughed as he followed Keegan from the parlor.
“The housekeeper would like to meet with me, so I shall leave you,” Claudia said as she quickly exited, leaving only Julian, Cait and Norbright in the parlor.
Cait stood. “I should probably take my leave since no further plans are necessary.”
Julian wasn’t ready for Cait to go, but he’d be happy if Norbright disappeared.
“You have only just arrived,” Julian said. “The rest are abandoning me. You would not be so cruel as to do the same.”
She glanced quickly at him and then Norbright, as if she wasn’t so certain what she should do.
Did Cait want to leave? Had she not enjoyed their kisses?
She certainly had been engaged last evening. She also could have awakened today and realized that such should have never occurred.
Maybe she did not even like him.
“Stay, Miss Doyle. Rivers pouts when left alone,” Norbright said.
“I certainly do not,” Julian argued.
“Brooding,” Norbright corrected. “Gentlemen do not pout, they brood. My mistake.”
“You would brood too if you were stuck in a chair and unable to move about freely,” Julian grumbled. “And, if you would be so kind, please add a bit more brandy to my glass.”
