Page 40 of Scottish Seducer
He massaged my arms and said, “We’ll see if I can change your mind.”
Probably not. I was likely only staying in London another day or two, but I said, “It’s pretty set.”
“I’m used to getting what I want.” Then his lips met mine for a moment and I forgot everything.
I was his, if only I was sure he loved me. As he let me go, my eyes misted, and I hoped he didn’t notice.
Charlie waved at my friends and let himself out.
I took another second to breathe then went back inside. Once the door closed, Sophia said, “So you’re having dinner before the museum?”
My eyes widened. They all knew I was weak. Butterflies went crazy in my stomach as I asked, “You were listening?”
Charlotte pointed behind her and said, “Your window’s open. We couldn’tnothear you both.”
Heat scorched my cheeks. “I see.”
Amelia scooted to the edge of her seat. “So open it.”
My mind was blank as I retook my seat. “Open what?”
Charlotte nodded toward my hand and said, “This jewelry that shows interest.”
The bag handles in my hand suddenly felt heavier, but I shook my head. “Doesn’t matter.”
“Yes, it does.” Sophia said.
I sighed and opened the black bag and took out a diamond necklace. This seriously would be suitable for an evening at Buckingham Palace itself.
Amelia reached out to hold it as she said, “This necklace would make even Isabella Thorpe green with envy.”
I mentally turned up my nose. The book where Jane Austen tried to be a Brontë never read as true to me. I sipped my wine and said, “Northanger Abbeyis my least favorite Austen book.”
Charlotte took the necklace from Amelia and held it like she was afraid it might break as she said, “It’s not so bad. If you do forgive him, maybe one day he’ll give you a hoop ring you can show off to all of us.”
I chuckled. Only those of us who spent too much time reading and breathing the Regency would want a five-stone ring of various colors as our betrothal or engagement ring. Not that I’d ever be betrothed, but I did wish the rules were simpler now.
I took my new necklace back and said, “Everyone else in the world might think we’re crazy, but I love you guys for trying to help me feel better.”
Once the necklace was firmly returned to its box and hidden in the bag, I stood and group-hugged my friends. While I sucked at finding love, I hadn’t lucked out with my true friends.
I wished that was enough, but Charlie’s kiss earlier rattled me.
