She giggled as she slipped off her nightdress. Hard to believe she felt this way about him when the first day at the woodsman’s cottage, she’d considered him the devil’s spawn. Did he know he loved her or did he still deny his heart? Knowing how stubborn he was, he would deny it. She’d certainly try to help him overcome this problem and make him realize he loved her. Dominic’s words came back to her, reminding her of what he thought Trey wanted in a woman.
She rang for her maid and dressed for the day. Trey wanted her, and she would be patient with him until he realized he loved her. She’d even prove they belonged together.
Within an hour, Judith had finished making herself presentable and hurried downstairs. Breakfast had long passed since everyone probably slept in, but she didn’t mind. Her stomach didn’t growl for food as much as her body yearned for Trey’s affection.
As she neared the drawing room, the dowager’s laugh rang through the silence. Trey’s deep voice joined his mother’s, making Judith’s heart leap with excitement. It would be difficult, but she must act as if seeing Trey didn’t set her body on fire. Neither Trey nor his mother was prepared for Judith to confess she’d found the man she wanted to marry. Another giggle reached her throat, but she quickly lifted her knuckles to her mouth in hopes of keeping the emotion contained. Soon they’d know of her decision, but now was not the time.
Taking a deep breath, she squared her shoulders and took another step closer to the drawing room. The dowager’s voice vibrated through the air again, when the woman spoke about a list of men she had gathered. Judith slowed her feet and listened closer.
“Mother, I believe we have enough men on our list to start. This morning Bentley was overwhelmed with calling cards and invitations for Judith. She made quite an impression, and I’m certain a fine young gentleman will ask for her hand within a fortnight.
Isabelle Worthington laughed. “Oh, which one shall we choose?
“Mother, we will not choose any. This is Judith’s decision.”
“Are you certain? She’s so young and innocent in all of this. I fear she will not know how to pick the right man.”
“Mother,” Trey’s voice grumbled a little deeper. “You are underestimating our dear Judith. She has a good mind and she’s very intelligent. Her wit is quicker and sharper than you think.”
Judith smiled, her heart melting from his words. Although it hurt to think he and his mother were secretly devising ways to pick her future husband, Judith knew Trey would never allow any man to touch her. He’d told her that last night. She was his, and his kisses had branded her for life.
If she had to remind him of what happened, she would. One way or another, Trey and his mother would know Judith was not looking for a husband—unless the man was Trey.
Chapter Thirty
Taking another deepbreath, Judith resumed her stance and strolled into the room. Right away, she gained the attention of Isabelle and Trey. Although Judith tried only to glance his way, hoping she wouldn’t look at him like a woman in love, he jumped to his feet and smiled.
“Good afternoon, Judith,” he said. “I trust you had a pleasant night’s rest.”
Heat moved up her neck toward her face, and she silently cursed the effect the double meaning had on her. “Thank you, Lord Trey. I did. I had an incredibly exhilarating night, which in turn helped me sleep as if I were floating on clouds.”
He lifted a brow—and even the corner of his mouth turned up—as if letting her know he received the hidden meaning in her words.
“Well, my dear, I do say you look refreshed from your successful evening.” The dowager smiled wide and held up a handful of cards. “Look at what we have received thus far. I know we will collect more as the day passes.”
“Oh, how lovely.” Judith moved to the sofa next to her guardian and sat.
“You have become a sensation, my dear.” Isabelle beamed. “Now we must get you fitted for several more gowns.”
“More?” Judith shook her head. “Don’t I have enough already?”
Isabelle laughed. “Women never have enough, my dear.”
“And when shall I plan for this excursion to Bond Street?”
The dowager nibbled on her bottom lip as she tapped her finger on her chin. During the few seconds of silence, Judith glanced at Trey. Casually, he sat in his chair with one leg crossed over the other, his dreamy gaze resting on her. A smile touched his mouth, making her heart flutter.
“How about we plan a trip to London in two days? Does that sound reasonable?” Isabelle finished.
Judith switched her focus back to her guardian. “Yes, it does. Will Lord Trey be joining us this time?”
Her comment brought him alert and he straightened in his chair, dropping his foot to the floor. “Me?”
“That sounds heavenly.” The dowager clapped her hands. “Please consider coming with us, Trey. We shall have such a lovely time.”
Panic crossed his expression, making his eyes wide and his smile disappear. Judith almost laughed. She hoped he agreed. Spending more time with him would help her convince him of his feelings for her.
“Um, well, I—I have business to attend.”
