Slowly, he stood, not taking his eyes off her. His mouth dropped open in awe. He took in every detail, from the top of her styled hair to the toes of her dainty slippers, and everythingin between. This dress fitted her body perfectly, showing off all of her womanly curves—curves that were usually hidden by her other dresses.
He didn’t even realize she had moved until she stood in front of him, peering into his eyes. He had no idea if she spoke, because all he could hear was his heart thumping wildly in his chest.
She smiled, and his heart melted even more. On impulse, he circled her waist, closing the space between them as he pulled her body next to his. He still couldn’t think of any words to say because her beauty and grace left him dumbfounded—and really, the only thing he wanted to say was best said with his lips.
He bent his head and pressed his mouth to hers. Thankfully, she responded the way he wanted. Her arms circled his neck, and she kissed him back tenderly, yet passionately. It was really only a few kisses, but there was emotion behind each one that made the moment so special.
When she pulled away, her face flamed red. “Broderick, we mustn’t do this in front of Georgia.” Her voice squeaked.
He stared mystified at her again but at least managed a smile and a nod.
Beside him, Georgia laughed. “Oh, no, you two go right ahead with what you were doing. I will just go into the kitchen and fix our breakfast.” She bustled off.
Although he wanted to pull Emiline back into his arms, he held himself back from doing so. They would only get interrupted when Georgia returned.
Emiline walked past him to the table. Before she sat, he quickly pulled out the chair for her.
Her bright gaze met his, sparkling as she smiled. “I thank you, Broderick.”
He really needed to get a hold of this situation. He didn’t understand why he was acting so lovestruck. Seeing her dressedlike this was quite a shock, but he needed to somehow gain control and get his speech and actions back together the right way.
He sat, still without taking his eyes off her. He couldn’t even if he wanted.
“Broderick.” She giggled. “Would you stop staring at me like that? It’s most embarrassing.”
Chuckling lightly, he relaxed in his chair. “Forgive me, Emmie love. You have put me under a spell I have no wish to break. I’m not used to seeing you look so… so…” He partook of her loveliness once more. Slower this time, enjoying everything about her once again.
“Do I at least look like a lady?”
He brought his gaze to her sparkling eyes. “No. You look like a princess.”
Her cheeks went red again. “I have never heard more flattering words.” She presented him with a soft smile. “With me dressed this way, will that make it easier for you to follow through on our wager?”
He grinned. “Definitely.”
Georgia hustled in, carrying a tray with three bowls on it. She set the bowls in front of Broderick and Emiline, then took one for herself.
“I hope oat porridge is all right.”
Emiline nodded. “Yes, it is. I have not tasted porridge in such a long time.”
She and Broderick were silent as they ate, although Georgia rattled on, trying to keep the conversation flowing. Broderick kept sneaking glances at the adorable woman next to him, and when she peeked back, he grinned even if food was still in his mouth.
He was extremely thankful that they were away from his uncle and aunt’s house. With Emiline wearing such enthrallingattire, his family would certainly swoon to see his making a total fool out of himself because of this enchantress.
Inwardly, he groaned as dread washed upon him. Reality hit him head-on. They had to return to the estate today. Emiline would change into those ugly, large dresses, and he could never kiss her again.
Chapter Thirteen
After breakfast, Emmiehurried back to their room to clean up, but when she entered, the bed had been made and the room looked as if she and Broderick had not stayed here at all. The only evidence that she had stayed the night was that her riding habit was folded up neatly on the end of the bed. Broderick couldn’t have possibly done this. Perhaps it was Amy.
Emmie picked up her clothes then returned downstairs to thank her grandmother.
As she passed a front window, a movement caught her eye. Broderick stood in front of the stable getting their horses ready. She smiled, loving the way he looked. So handsome and refined. So strong. And the sweetest man she had ever met. If they had been introduced under different circumstances, would she have liked him at all?
Dishes clacked together in the kitchen, pulling her out of such heavenly thoughts. She stepped inside the room to tell her grandmother goodbye. As she suspected, Georgia had packed a lunch for their ride home.
“Georgia?”
