Page 13 of Captivating the Earl (Lords and Ladies in Love 5)

Running his fingers through his hair, Hawk said, “I should have gone with my first instinct when I learned Sheffield was in dun territory and enjoyed his brandy too much, despite his promises that he had it under control.”

Wycliff pushed back his chair and slapped Hawk on his shoulder. “Put all of that aside while you visit, Hawk. After all, it’s been more than a year. I think you’ve worn sackcloth and ashes long enough.”

Miss Moore, Leah, and Wycliff were gathered in the drawing room, awaiting the dinner announcement, when Hawk joined them later that day. His eyes immediately went to Miss Moore, who chatted with Leah. The governess wore a light peach gown with a deeper peach ribbon under the breasts and at the hem.

Her arms waved in the air as she told Leah a tale, and Hawk couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. He also couldn’t help but notice that although a couple of years out of fashion, her gown was of a quality that was generally out of reach for a vicar’s daughter.

“Good evening, ladies, Wycliff.” Hawk took a drink from a footman’s tray. “I assume everyone had a pleasant day?”

“Yes, indeed, I did,” Leah said. “Tuesdays are the days the ladies from the village gather here each week, and we knit mittens, scarves, and hats for the families who are struggling. It is always a lovely time, and we all feel as though we did more than gossip and sip tea.”

“And how were the little ones today, Miss Moore?”

Her face lit up at his question. “Quite entertaining, my lord. For some reason, the lads decided today was the day to play, and not spend any time on their lessons. It took all of my abilities to persuade them to concentrate for even a short time.”

Leah beamed at Miss Moore. “You do such a wonderful job keeping them in line, Miss Moore. I don’t know how we managed before your arrival.”

“Thank you, my lady. They are truly darlings, but I must admit there are days when I wonder what Nurse feeds them for breakfast.”

A footman appeared at the door and announced dinner. They filed into the room informally, taking different seats. With Miss Moore directly across from him this time, he was able to study her without being obvious.

Her creamy skin glowed in the candlelight, highlighting her high cheekbones, the depth of her eyes, and her golden-tipped eyelashes. He should not be looking at her like this. He should not be studying her plump lips and wondering what they would feel like under his. How they would taste. Sweet? Spicy?

Bloody hell, she’s my cousin’s employee!

The footman laid down the first course, and they began to eat the white soup, delicious as food always was at Wycliff Estate. Their cook was one of the best.

“Hawk, Miss Moore has Thursday afternoons off. Perhaps she would enjoy a trip to the village tomorrow. I know one of your favorite bookstores is right there in the center of the square.”

So, Leah saw no problem with him spending time with their employee.

Strange, that.

“I am not sure if Miss Moore would be willing to give up her free time to entertain your guest.” Hawk glanced at the governess.

Miss Moore didn’t answer, but dabbed her mouth with her serviette.

Hawk cleared his throat. “I would be honored to escort you, Miss Moore.”

She stared at him for a moment, and just when he thought she would refuse, she dipped her chin. “I would like that. If you are sure it is not an imposition, I shall enjoy a trip to the village. I’ve been there many times and absolutely adore the bookstore.”

He hated the tinge of excitement at her words. He’d bedded dozens of beautiful women, danced, flirted, and walked in dark gardens with many more, but none of them had affected him the way the thought of strolling along the village square in broad daylight with Miss Moore did.

“’Tis settled, then. Tomorrow we shall take our trip and be sure to visit the bookstore first.”

The rest of the meal continued with pleasant conversation among the four of them, Hawk sneaking as many glances as he could at Miss Moore. She must have been aware of his regard, because she avoided looking in his direction, except when he asked her a direct question.

Then her face flushed, and he detected an increase in her breathing, her lovely breasts rising and falling rapidly. How he would love to place his lips on the warm skin there and inhale the scent of roses he’d noticed when they sat close together under the tree earlier.

Yes, she was as affected by him as he was by her. After months of ennui and racing from one empty experience—including ladies’ beds—to another, it was rather good to be captivated by a woman. A sweet woman, who had no designs on his bed, his money, or his title. Rare, that.

However, nothing changed the fact that Miss Moore was off-limits. At least that was how he viewed it. Except Leah had practically thrown them together with her suggestion of a trip to the village tomorrow.

Did she know more about her governess than she was letting on?

Chapter Six

Several times over the morning Lizzie had decided to send a note to Lord Hawkins explaining she was suffering a megrim and would be unable to accompany him to the village.