Page 25 of A Virgin for the Forbidden Duke

Her eyes fell on Matthew’s face, and she noted the way his gaze lingered on her face, his eyes exploring her features as if committing them to memory. She felt a heightened awareness of his presence, a magnetic pull that extended beyond the words they exchanged.

It wasn’t just a conversation. It was a dance of minds, a subtle exploration of the intricate dance of attraction.

“Yet, I admit, the allure of hidden identities and clandestine encounters has a certain intrigue. Perhaps, in the realm of masked secrecy, one might uncover unexpected connections,” Agnes continued, a blush creeping up her face as she tried to look away.

Matthew, with a mischievous glint, leaned closer. “Miss Agnes, would you dare to venture into such a world of veiled enchantment? Imagine the secrets that might be whispered beneath the guise of anonymity.”

Agnes, feigning a gasp, replied, “Oh, the audacity! Yet, the notion does tickle the imagination. A masquerade could be a realm where hearts speak freely, unburdened by the constraints of societal expectations.”

Their banter continued.

In the soft glow of the moon, Agnes found herself captivated by the nuances of Matthew’s expressions—the way his brow furrowed with contemplation, the slight curve of his lips when amused, and the depth in his eyes that hinted at a reservoir of untold stories. Her initial intimidation gave way to a profound fascination, and she realized that every layer of Matthew’s character beckoned her to delve deeper.

Matthew, in turn, seemed equally attuned to Agnes. His gaze lingered on her features, and she caught the subtle appreciative glances that betrayed an unspoken admiration.

Matthew, his eyes fixed on Agnes, playfully remarked, “Your eyes hold a mystery of their own. What secrets do they guard? What are you thinking about?”

Agnes, ever the teaser, responded with a twinkle in her eyes, “If I told you, they wouldn’t be secrets anymore, would they?”

Matthew, with a smirk that spoke volumes, complimented, “You’re a breath of fresh air in this stifling society. The moonlight seems to caress your features, Agnes. It’s as if it wants to remember every detail.”

Blushing, Agnes responded, “Perhaps it does. Or perhaps it just knows that some moments are meant to be savored.”

Agnes stared into Matthew’s eyes, unable to look away. Her heart was beating so fast that she thought it would burst out of her chest. She didn’t know how much longer she could stand this.

“What is it you want, Agnes?” Matthew asked softly.

“I… I don’t know,” she whispered. “I can’t seem to think straight. You’ve been very kind, Matthew. I should go. My mother might be looking for me.”

“Wait!” Matthew said, grasping her hand.

He pulled her to him and kissed her passionately. Agnes melted into his embrace. He tasted like mint and honey and felt like silk against her skin.

When he released her, she looked up at him with wide eyes, and Matthew couldn’t help but chuckle at the look on her face.

After that enchanting night in the moonlit garden, Agnes and Matthew found themselves drawn to secret rendezvous at subsequent events.

Each encounter unfolded like a chapter in a clandestine love story.

CHAPTER9

Matthew, his gaze holding a promise of adventure, extended a hand toward Agnes. “Care for a brief escape, Miss Agnes?” The twinkle in his eyes hinted at the secret he was about to share.

Agnes, intrigued by the mischief in his demeanor, placed her hand in his, a silent agreement to follow him wherever he led her.

They navigated, from the garden, through the bustling ballroom, Matthew skillfully steering them away from prying eyes, and soon found themselves in the hallowed sanctuary of the library.

The air within was heavy with the scent of antiquity, the shelves standing as silent sentinels to centuries of accumulated knowledge. Matthew guided Agnes to a secluded nook, their steps softened by the plush carpet beneath.

The distant murmur of the grand event faded, replaced by the quiet rustling of history and literature. Matthew cast a glance around to ensure their solitude, and a mischievous smile played on his lips.

“Quite the escape, isn’t it, Miss Agnes?” he remarked, the dim light casting intriguing shadows on his face.

Agnes couldn’t help but smile, feeling the anticipation building between them. “Indeed, Your Grace. A secret haven in the midst of the whirlwind.”

As they stepped into the intimate space, Matthew couldn’t help but tease, “What tales do these forgotten books hold for us tonight?”

Agnes, charmed by his playful demeanor, responded with a twinkle in her eyes, “Your Grace, perhaps the tales of forbidden romances and secret rendezvous are hidden among these shelves.”

---