Juliette stared at the man who invariably made her insides twist into tight little knots, then glanced around. “Would it not be improper with nobody else around?”
“As long as we keep away from dark corners and don’t stray too far from the house, I see no reason for anyone to disapprove.”
Uncertain, Juliette struggled with the inner turmoil the situation evoked. She did not wish to insult Florian by turning him down. But her admiration for him could not be denied, nor could her increasing attraction toward him. And now that she knew what it was to be held in his arms, she longed to experience it again. Which was dangerous.
And yet, taking a private walk with him would allow for the perfect opportunity to discuss her idea for the fund-raiser she was planning. Which was important for her to do since she would require his agreement regarding the auction. So she set her hand on his arm and allowed him to lead the way forward, aware once again of the strength he emitted not only in his solid posture but in his stride.
When they’d gone a few paces and she’d worked out the best way to make her request, she said, “I’ve decided that the first charity event I host on behalf of St. Agatha’s will be a tea party at Huntley House.”
“Is a garden party not more common?”
“Maybe, but I think doing it like this will ensure the event’s success.” She paused before saying, “Especially considering the items I’m considering for the auction.”
“Oh?” His voice was low, sensual and terribly distracting.
She steeled herself. “In light of your increased popularity, I believe the promise of dancing with you would be great incentive for—”
“What?”
He’d drawn her to an immediate halt and was suddenly closer somehow. Her stomach flipped over and a shiver raced down her spine. “Well, um...” She struggled to regain composure, if only to get her words out. “I think many women will want to bid on the chance to partner with you.”
“No.”
“Especially if the dance in question is the waltz,” she said, ignoring his refusal. “I dare say every debutante will covet such an opportunity.”
Bowing his head, he murmured close to her ear. “Do you speak from experience, my lady?”
Flustered by his flirtatiousness and not entirely sure how to handle it, she held her tongue and continued along the path, distancing herself from him while trying to catch her breath. His footsteps sounded behind her, careful but certain upon the ground. Juliette’s pulse raced.
The path up ahead split off in two directions, and when she started toward the left, he caught her by the elbow and steered her to the right, leading her toward the far end of the garden.
“I thought you said we should stay close to the house.” Common sense warred with the thrill of anticipation.
“Will you answer the question?”
He spoke closer to her ear than she would have expected, causing her to shiver in response. “I enjoyed dancing with you tremendously, Florian.” That was what he was asking, was it not? She could scarcely remember.
“And I with you. But that doesn’t mean I’m eager to dance with anyone else.”
Recognizing the compliment, but knowing she had to try and stay on point, Juliette said, “It’s for a good cause.”
“I realize that, but is it completely necessary?”
“No. Of course it isn’t. If you really don’t want to, I can think of something else. It was just an idea.”
The path narrowed, so he drew her slightly closer—enough for her to enjoy the scent of him once again and to savor the feel of his arm pressing up against hers.
Silence settled between them for a moment before he said, “On second thought, I’ll consider it and let you know by tomorrow afternoon.”
“But—”
“We face great odds, my lady. Raising as much money as we can is important. So it wouldn’t be right of me to ruin the chance of a successful event just because I don’t want to waltz.”
“Thank you, Florian.” She couldn’t help but smile. Hoping to give him ease, she tried for a bit of good-natured humor. “You know, for a man who claims he doesn’t enjoy it, you’re remarkably good. Even if your skill upon the dance floor is not your best quality.”
He made a sound that could have been choked-back laughter. “It isn’t?” he asked, his voice lighter than she’d ever heard it before.
Liking this playful side to him and appreciating his willingness to let her see it, she smiled up at him as they walked and almost tripped when he responded with a smile of his own. The effect was dazzling, for as handsome as he was when he glowered, he was far more striking like this.
