This was to be their first night together, and Brody intended to make sure his wife enjoyed it so much she’d want to repeat it every night after. So far so good. He smirked, enjoying the flush in her cheeks as she watched him from the bed. She still wore her chemise and stockings, but they would be gone soon enough.
Impatient, he pulled off his shirt and kicked off his shoes.
“Incredible,” she murmured, her gaze darting over his torso. “I never believed…that is to say…I always thought the statues were embellished examples of what mortal men aspired toward. Not something they might achieve. But that’s not true. You’re equally stunning.”
If he puffed out his chest any more he’d probably fall on his face. God help him, she certainly knew how to make him feel ten feet tall. He grinned like an idiot, his attempt at playing the devilish seducer momentarily forgotten.
“I’m glad you approve.” He unfastened the fall of his trousers and removed the garment along with his smalls and hose. When he straightened, Harriet looked like she might swoon.
“Forget the statues.” She gulped. “I’ve never seen anything more impressive than you.”
“And I’ve never seen a woman more tempting.” He climbed on the bed and slid his hand up the length of her leg, gathering her chemise. “Let me help you with this.”
The item was slowly removed between kisses, until she too was undressed. He tossed the chemise aside and let his gaze roam, observing each peak and valley of her perfection. Her body was slim and lithe, so gracefully built she moved with what looked like no effort at all.
“I love you,” he whispered while spreading his fingers across her hip. He made sure to tell her every day now so she’d have no doubts about his affection.
“And I love you,” she told him, her eyes so vibrant and her smile so tender, his heart sparked with joy.
He moved his hand to her thigh as he leaned in and kissed her once more, pressing his mouth to hers, imparting the wonder he felt in this moment. With gentle caresses and soft, soothing touches, he coaxed her toward a state of pure bliss.
“Brody,” she gasped, clutching the bedsheets with one hand, his hair with the other.
“I’m right here with you, my love.” He positioned himself between her thighs. “Are you ready for more?”
“Yes.”
Her arms came around his neck, bringing his mouth to hers in a soul-searing kiss that conveyed one truth as he joined his body with hers. This was where he belonged. With her heart beating against his own. At last.
26
Lady Emily Brooke was enjoying her evening enormously. How could she not when two of her dearest friends were finally able to attend a Society ball with her?
She turned to them, the newly minted duchesses of Westcliffe and Corwin. Both had danced excessively with their husbands and were now enjoying refreshments with her. Standing on a balcony above the ballroom, they sipped champagne while watching the revelry below.
“I’ve never seen so many spectacular gowns,” Harriet said, her voice filled with awe. “Or jewels.”
“It’s quite impressive,” Ada agreed. She eyed Emily. “There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”
Intrigued, Emily nodded. “Go on.”
“It relates to a novel that’s due for publication toward the end of October. I’d like for The Lady Librarian to review it.”
Emily blinked. Only a few select people knew of her alter ego, and they rarely brought it up in conversation. Ada’s decision to do so suggested this book was important to her. Which had to mean... “Who’s the author? You or your husband?”
“Um…” The unease that filled Ada’s eyes spoke volumes.
Emily smiled. “Don’t worry. You needn’t tell me. I simply can’t wait to read it.”
Ada cleared her throat. “It’s a romance involving an earl and an innkeeper’s daughter.”
“Scandalous,” Emily said with a grin.
“The book will be published anonymously,” Ada muttered.
“Of course. That does make a great deal of sense.” Excited on her friend’s behalf, Emily said, “Writing a book is no small feat. Acquiring a contract is downright impressive. Please have a copy delivered to me as soon as you’re able, and I shall make sure The Lady Librarian writes an outstanding review.”
“An honest review,” Ada said. “No special treatment.”
