She’s never kissed anyone like this before, granted, the only other boy she’s kissed is Clarence. But he held her so gently and kindly, like she was delicate and precious to him. Colton is holding her as though he’s afraid she’ll disappear.
Daisy’s pulse thumps loudly through her bones as she pushes herself up against him. His cold front warms under the heat of her body as Colton ravenously kisses her. His fingers fist through her hair, nudging her head to the side slightly.
Icy lips find her neck, and Daisy moans lightly from the touch of his mouth on her skin. Climbing down her neck towards her collarbone, Colton’s teeth bite at her flesh, drawing a small amount of blood.
Another moan catches in her throat as he licks droplets of scarlet from her and grins ferally. “Even better than the pints I’ve been drinking. Fresh and warm.”
Her eyes roll to the back of her head as he continues kissing and biting his way down her body. His chilled fingers open the threads holding her dressing gown closed, dropping it on the floor to expose her naked body. He covers her flesh in kisses and nips until she’s bare and craving him.
Pushing her forcefully down onto the chaise, Colton removes his clothing, discarding every piece onto the floor along with hers before lying down on top of her, their skin touching. His flesh it cold all over, and not fully present, as he’s body is still forming.
Daisy’s beginning to enjoy the sensation of his contact with her. Liking when their bodies are connected. Her skin is fiery against his icy flesh.
Daisy’s heart rate rises as she feels him pressing against her. His body rests above hers, but it’s lighter than she expected since he’s still part phantom. His fingers lace through her hair as she stares up into his darkened irises. They’re deepening as she feels him between her.
She lets out a soft breath as he enters her slowly, pressing his fullness inside of her with ease. His teeth graze her shoulder as Daisy’s eyes flutter closed in pure pleasure.
“You’re mine, Petal.” He whispers into the shell of her ear before driving himself into her once more. The pressure build quickly inside of her, eliciting new sensations her body’s never felt before.
Heat floods her, and Daisy whimpers gently, allowing herself to melt against him. Her eyes flutter closed when the pain subsides, and pleasure saturates all of her senses. She writhes under him, digging her nails into his blurred flesh, as he kisses her collarbone hungrily.
Colton buries himself inside of her again, making Daisy pant in ecstasy. “I’m yours, Colton.” Her voice is hushed before she gasps out loudly, and his lips cover hers once more, bringing her closer to sweet oblivion.
39
Saving Grace
Charles sits alone in the library of the Chiswick manor. His mother went to sleep a while ago, and his father was still at the Ascendancy, working or avoiding being at home.
He’s tried reading the page of his book several times now, but he can’t concentrate on it. His mind keeps wandering elsewhere, eyes scanning the same sentence for a fifth time now.
Slamming the book shut, Charles stands from the armchair and grabs his coat from beside the door. He doubts his father will be home anytime soon, so it’ll be fine for him to duck out for a while.
Shutting the door behind him, he steps out into the snow caked world and trudges towards town.
Their manor isn’t far from the city centre, which Charles thinks is a blessing. He hates the idea of needing to catch a coach every time he has to get out of the manor.
Pulling his waistcoat closer to his neck, he goes down an alleyway, a shortcut on his way to the Sage.
He knows the others meet up here on occasion, and it is one of the best places in London for an evening drink.
It’s late at night and he hadn’t realised how dark it got while he sat in the library willing himself to read. Shadows lurk off every surface. Snowflakes fall gently and soundlessly around him. It’s quiet, only his footsteps seem to be making noise. He thought more peoplewould’ve been out to enjoy the snow, but winter does keep people hidden inside. They’re not brave enough to face the elements like he is.
Turning the corner at the end of the alleyway, the street is lit up with lamp posts. The Sage has music flowing from the door. It’s at least always lively in there.
Stepping inside, there’s a small group of fiddle players tucked into a corner. Marked ones are dancing around a small open space as others sit, drinking and enjoying the scene.
Charles smiles for the first time today, strolling up to the bar, and Violet looks at him. “Usual. Please.”
She winks, flouncing away to grab his drink of brew. He leans his elbows against the timber bar, watching couples dance freely to the loud music.
“Here you go.” Violet hands him a glass filled to the brim and Charles smiles at her, passing her a note.
She stuffs it into the top of her bodice and turns to serve another man.
“I didn’t think you’d like this scene.” The familiar voice tickles up his neck. Emmett stands beside him, a drink of something dark purple in his hand.
“Why would you assume that?”