Page 65 of A Sinful Virgin for the Duke

He soon followed her, groaning with the power of his climax, his entire body shuddering as he buried himself inside her and released his seed, his face pressed into the crook of her neck.

Panting and slick with sweat, he kissed Gemma fervently, carefully removed himself from her and rolled on his side next to her. Gemma lay on her back, spent and fulfilled beside him, her racing breath slowing as she savored the remaining moments of their passionate exchange.

Frederick turned his head and grinned at Gemma, who gazed at him with a satiated smile. “Get some rest, darling. Because I am not done with you.”

CHAPTER 23

“Good morning, Miss Bradford. You slept quite late—is all well?” the chambermaid said lightly.

A gentle knock at the door brought Gemma back from the depths of her slumber.

She sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes as the chambermaid entered, looking mildly concerned.

Gemma had crept back into her own chamber during the earliest hours of the morning, carefully avoiding any servants who might be about that early.

“Oh, yes, perfectly fine,” Gemma smiled reassuringly. “Just a little too much wine at dinner, I think. And, well… His Grace and I stayed up far too late talking.”

It had been… an unforgettable night.

Her thoughts drifted to the way he had touched her, as though she was something precious and fierce all at once. Though she knew a shadow of guilt should be hovering over her—it had been drilled into her mind that only a husband should know her in such a way—she felt nothing of the sort. Instead, there was a quiet satisfaction in knowing she had tasted life on her own terms.

A small, daring smile crept over her lips.

She had made her choice, and Frederick had seemed to understand that without her saying a word.

She only hoped he understood what that meant going forward, for she was not looking for promises, only for the feeling of freedom.

The chambermaid nodded knowingly, her brow clearing. “It is no surprise, then. His Grace woke late too and had just a quick breakfast before he took his leave.”

Gemma’s stomach fluttered in disappointment, but she gave a casual nod, hoping it didn’t show on her face. “Ah, I see. Did he mention where he was off to?”

“Back to Blackridge, miss. I believe there was a bit of business needing his attention.” The maid stoked the fire, making the room a little warmer as Gemma swallowed her sadness.

Of course he has responsibilities.

Perhaps it was best that he had left. She didn’t want him to think she was expecting anything in the wake of their tryst. She’d wanted a night of freedom and passion and that was precisely what she had received.

With a sigh she rose from her bed, allowing the maid to help her into one of her simpler dresses. She smoothed the fabric, giving herself a final look in the mirror before heading down to the dining room, her stomach reminding her that she’d skipped dinner the previous evening.

The dining room was empty, but there were fresh rolls, fruit and a pot of tea waiting. Gemma selected a piece of bread and a bit of fruit, savoring the sweetness as she let her mind wander.

Last night’s kisses, the way Frederick’s hands had felt warm and sure on her skin, and the unfamiliar soreness that lay deep within her heightened the memory. Gemma blushed and smiled to herself.

The room’s quiet was interrupted by the sound of the Dowager Duchess’ footsteps as she swept into the room. The lady looked pleased, her eyes brightening as she caught sight of Gemma.

“There you are, my dear,” she greeted, settling into the chair beside her. “I was hoping you were feeling well enough this morning. I had not wanted to wake you.”

Gemma swallowed, smiling warmly. “Oh, I am perfectly fine, truly. I just… slept a bit late.”

Vivian chuckled. “A sign of a pleasant evening, I would say. And good because I was hoping you would agree to accompany me to a ball tonight.”

“Another ball?” Gemma’s brows lifted.

Although the recollection of the ladies who had interrogated her made her stomach clench, the possibility that Frederick would be there lessened her anxiety.

“Of course, I would be happy to go. Is it nearby?” she added.

“Yes, just a half-hour’s ride.” Vivian chuckled. “The earl hosting it has been very eager to curry favor with Frederick, and though my grandson detests balls, the nobility around here never seems to tire of inviting him. Now, do not misunderstand me. I am sure that he enjoys them well enough, but the prospect of eager mothers and debutantes tends to send him into a sour mood.”

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