He ached to reach out and touch her, to draw Cait near and place his lips against hers. He wanted to pull her onto his lap and devour her, but he could do none of those things because it was not proper and Norbright had left the parlor door open so that anyone could see them who walked by.
That had been intentional, no doubt.
By the time Cait stood to take her leave, Julian knew that he had fallen under some spell and that a few nights of conversation would never be enough.
“Will you return tomorrow?” he asked.
Would he ever get tired of seeing her slight blush? It was unlikely, and no doubt when he finally made her his, that blush would cover her entire body as he brought her the most delightful, wicked pleasure.
His thoughts caught Julian off guard. The only way that could happen was if she was his wife. It was far too soon to consider her for such, no matter how much he wanted her.
“Yes. I will return to visit with you.”
He reached out a hand. Cait placed hers in his, though she hesitated, uncertain.
Julian gave it a little tug.
Cait tilted her head and studied him.
“Come here,” he whispered. “I need to tell you something.”
Her green eyes grew serious as she leaned forward and that was when Julian took the opportunity to put his other hand behind her head and draw her close enough to kiss.
He could feel Cait’s smile, but soon she was returning his kiss.
“You could have asked,” she whispered when they finally broke.
“I did not want to risk you telling me no.”
“How could I deny an injured gentleman?” she grinned.
“Then I will make certain to use my injury to every advantage.”
Cait laughed as she stood. “I really must return to the school, but I will be back tomorrow evening.”
“Good night, Cait,” he called as she reached the threshold.
“Goodnight, Lord Rivers.”
He sighed and leaned his head back against the chair.
He was falling in love with Miss Cait Doyle. At least he thought that was happening, but as he had never been in love before, how could he be certain?
Was it as simple as not wanting to be parted? Yes, he desired and wanted Cait, but he also wanted her by his side sharing stories. That was contentment.
As he would be stuck at Harrington Manor for at least another sennight, and likely fortnight, Julian was determined to make the most of his time with Cait so that he could be certain. And, if he was indeed falling in love, then when he returned home, he’d already have his bride chosen and be able to inform his father that he would do everything necessary to bring another heir into the world.
Julian blew out a sigh and was ready to ring for a footman when a scream came from outside. He knew in his gut that it was Cait. Pushing up from the chair and ignoring orders from the doctor, Julian hobbled across the parlor, cursing at the pain and because he was unable to run. Before he could reach the main entry, Pickmore ran down the stairs and was out the door. He was followed by Keegan who hopped down one stair at a time while holding onto the banister with one hand and his crutch in the other.
“Give me that!” He grabbed Keegan’s crutch and turned for the door. Pickmore would reach Cait before him, but Julian was not going to sit inside the house to wait.
Chapter Eight
Cait chose to use the well-worn path that ran between Harrington Manor and the school instead of the road. The moon was still not very full, but there was enough light to see where she was going. When she next visited, Cait would bring a lantern so that she would be able to see more of her surroundings.
As she approached the hedges that separated the property and spotted the opening, she paused when there was rustling within. The hair stood up on the back of her neck and then she quickly dismissed her fear. It was likely an animal foraging or settling in for the night.
With a deep breath, she stepped between the hedges but when something grasped her ankle and pulled, she let out a scream. Before Cait knew what was happening, she’d lost her balance and screamed again as she fell back, landing on her bum with a jolt.
