Page 36 of The Earl's Reluctant Bride
“I had planned to remain in Newton Abbott for longer but the more I thought about it the surer I became.”
Alexander lifted a brow and asked quizzically, “Sure about what exactly?”
“Now that the season is in full swing rather than hiding away in the country, I think you should make your debut as a married couple. I know that tongues are wagging, but with your position and influence they dare not try to ostracize you. I am sure there are several invitations waiting for you in town.”
“And you believe that we will be well received?”
“Certainly. Thehaut tonis bursting at the seams to discover the lady that snared the Earl of Thornton. Several mother’s will be disappointed on behalf of their daughters.” She chuckled.
“I am keen to do whatever it takes to ease Elizabeth’s entry with thehaut ton, particularly since she did not have a season and there is the whiff of a scandal. I would like to spend a bit more time with her alone though.”
“Of course. I contemplated going ahead of you to lay the groundwork.”
Alexander wanted to be cautious. “What did you have in mind.”
“You and Barlow have been friends for many years and their family is in good standing. Elizabeth is no stranger to you. The story will be that you fell madly in love and you eloped. I will let this float into conversations while I am at tea. I will also let it be known that you will be coming to town and this should garner even more invitations.”
“It is an interesting proposition and I am in favor of it but before making a final decision I would like to discuss it with Elizabeth. I do not care much for thehaut tonand their unceasing gossip, yet over the years I have had to navigate it. Elizabeth has not and I need to be sure this is something she wishes to do.”
“I understand your concerns and they are pertinent. Of course, Elizabeth may wish to wait until next season to encounter thehaut ton.”
“Very well. I will be going to my cottage forthwith and you can let me know your decision.”
They completed their meal and his mother went on her way. Alexander decided to go to the library to review correspondence and asked the butler to let him know when Elizabeth had broken her fast. He had been working for a couple hours when a knock on the door interrupted him.
“Come in.” Alexander glanced up to see Elizabeth enter.
“Good morning, Alexander. I was surprised to see you rise so early. I thought you would have been exhausted from last night.” Elizabeth walked toward his desk; a coy smile plastered on her lips.
Alexander chuckled at her cheekiness. “Good morning, my darling wife.” He stood and walked around his desk to greet her. “My dear, I was depleted and exhausted so I fell into a deep sleep, and when I rose, I felt invigorated.” He lifted her chin and gently brushed his lips against hers as he spoke. “I am sure I was asleep long before you were.” Alexander sat on the edge of his desk and gazed at her.
“That you were. I was about to speak to you and then I heard your even breathing.”
Alexander took her hands in his and kissed them. “You slept in until quite late this morning. I did not wish to disturb you.”
“I do not need to tell you that I felt quite fatigued, but it is the kind of fatigue that I would like to experience again and again … very soon.”
Alexander felt a stirring in his loins. “Are you trying to seduce me? Are you here to tempt me away from my work, woman?”
Elizabeth exclaimed, her mouth forming a perfect O, as she feigned surprise. “You wound me, sir.” She placed her hand over her heart and pretended to be wounded.
Alexander pulled her close, pressed his lips against hers, and covered her mouth in a searing kiss. He raised his head and ran his thumb across Elizabeth’s lips.
“When I awoke this morning, I was feeling quite tender when I touched myself,” Elizabeth said with a twinkle in her eyes.
Alexander groaned at the memory of her straddling him and he grew taunt with need. “You best behave, Elizabeth, or I will take you right here and right now.”
“Right now?” Elizabeth whispered.
“I will not. I wanted to take you riding, horseback riding that is,” Alexander stood and kissed her forehead. “You have not seen the horse that I have for you.”
Elizabeth’s smile broadened in approval. “I would like that, Alexander. I have not been for a ride since I have been at Thornton Manor.”
“Excellent. I will meet you at the main entrance. I need to ensure the horses are prepared.” Alexander lowered his lips to hers for a featherily light kiss and they departed the library.
Shortly thereafter Alexander approached the main entrance with both horses. He gawked when he caught sight of Elizabeth in her riding habit. “You are wearing breaches?” Alexander asked incredulously.
“They are quite comfortable for riding, Alexander. Do you not find them so?”
