Cursing, he buried his weakening sentiments. He could never think of her as his wife. “Good morning, Mrs. Worthington.”
She smiled. “Good morning, Malcolm.”
From her sweet tone and the soft smile with which she greeted him, his heart sprang to life. He had repeatedly told her not to use his first name, but the stubborn woman wouldn’t listen.
He grinned. “I must say you look fetching this morning. Have you plans for the day?”
“I thought about going into town. Lizzy’s birthday is just a few days away, and I would like to buy her a gift.”
Shock spread over him.She remembered?“Yes, of course. Are you going to take the children?”
“Indeed, as long as you agree. Their nursemaid won’t be able to accompany us today, though. Will you let me take them alone? I promise to keep them in my sight at all times.”
Her eyes pleaded that he wouldn’t object, and it gripped his heart. His breath caught in his throat. Just a simple look, a softly spoken request from her, had the ability to weaken his resolve.
He cleared his throat. “I’m certain the children will love to go. They had an enjoyable outing with you the last time.”
Her smile widened. “As did I.”
She stepped nearer to him, her rose fragrance knocking his senses off balance.
“Is there anything you would like me to purchase for you?” Her warm breath caressed his face.
“No.” His heart hammered as he fought for control. He swallowed hard. “Is there something special you need?”
Her gaze focused on his lips. He balled his hands into fists to keep himself from taking her in his arms and kissing her. The other night was still very fresh in his mind, making him want to give in to temptation again.
“No, Malcolm. You have given me too much already.”
She remained close to him, and the longer she stayed so near, the more uneven his breathing became. “Have a pleasant outing, then,” he said in a strained voice.
“Thank you, Malcolm. And thank you for allowing me to take the children.” She raised and touched her lips to his cheek, kissing him briefly before stepping back. His heart beat out of control, and he didn’t have the slightest urge to stop it.
“What was that for?” he asked breathlessly.
“For being so kind and for trusting me with your children.”
“You deserve it.” His answer was whispered, and he couldn’t understand why he had said that. Did she really deserve it?
She slid her hands over his, and automatically he clamped on to her, wanting to keep her from leaving his side. The urge to take her in his arms and devour her mouth with his became overpowering.
“You have no idea how long I have waited to hear you say that.” Her eyes sparkled. “I won’t disappoint you, Malcolm, I assure you.”
She leaned up to kiss his cheek again, but he turned his face and met her kiss with his mouth. The kiss was soft, as were her lips. He hungered for more, but just as he released her hands to hold her, she broke the kiss and stepped away. A pink tint highlighted her cheeks, making her eyes sparkle.
He waited to see what she wanted to do next, hoping she would decide to fall into his arms, but she took another step back toward the door.
“Thank you again, Malcolm.” Her voice was sedate. “Have a good day at work, and I shall see you tonight.”
His emotions tied into knots, and he let her walk out of the room. The wild beat of his heart knocked against his ribs and his lips tingled from the memory of her sweet kiss. But it was still too soon. As much as his body starved for passion’s touch, he didn’t trust her with his life or, more importantly, his heart.
*
The lovely morningpassed too quickly for Camilla, and the time she had spent with James and Lizzy would soon come to an end. Within an hour they would be going back home, and she didn’t want the pleasure to stop. When each child clasped her hand, her heart soared. She was bursting with happiness.
The morning had started out perfect, first with the tender conversation with Malcolm, followed by the brief but earth-shattering kiss that had left her body weak and shaking. Then to have Malcolm’s children come to accept her kindness and love… Definitely, the day could not be better.
Camilla traveled through town, purchasing a few items for the kitchen that Cook had requested, but her main purpose was to find a shop that would buy Kat’s dresses. The other day she had gone through her sister’s closets and pulled out thegowns that could be altered. Many of the dresses Camilla simply couldn’t modify. She wanted to find somebody to buy them.
