Page 95 of His Scarred Duchess
“Only for you, my love,” Edmund replied, his fingers finally finding the laces of her gown. “Only ever for you.”
As the carriage rattled on towards Holbrook, the outside world faded away. There was only Edmund and Adeline, lost in their passion, rediscovering each other with eager hands and heated kisses.
By the time they arrived at Holbrook Manor, both were disheveled and breathing heavily. Edmund practically carried Adeline out of the carriage, ignoring the startled looks from the servants as they rushed inside.
“Your Grace,” Thornley began, stepping forward with a stack of letters. “There are some urgent matters?—”
“Not now, Thornley,” Edmund cut him off, his eyes never leaving Adeline’s flushed face. “The Duchess and I are not to be disturbed under any circumstances. Is that clear?”
Thornley’s eyes widened slightly, but he recovered quickly. “Of course, Your Grace. Enjoy your evening.”
As they ascended the stairs to their chambers, Edmund couldn’t keep his hands off Adeline. Every few steps, he’d pull her closefor another passionate kiss, leaving them both breathless and yearning for more.
Finally, they reached the master bedroom. Edmund kicked the door shut behind them, then turned to Adeline with a predatory gleam in his eyes.
“Now, my love,” he said, his voice rough with desire, “where were we?”
His hands cupped her face, his thumbs gently stroking her cheekbones as he gazed into her eyes.
“You are so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice low and husky with desire.
Adeline’s fingers worked at the buttons of his waistcoat, her breath coming in quick, shallow pants. “Edmund, please,” she whispered, her eyes dark with want.
Edmund didn’t need any further encouragement. In one swift motion, he lifted her into his arms, carrying her to the bed. He laid her down gently, his eyes never leaving hers as he quickly shed his coat and waistcoat.
Adeline reached for him, pulling him down for a searing kiss. Their tongues danced as his hands roamed over her body, seeking out the fastenings of her gown.
“Too many layers,” he growled against her lips, fumbling with the laces.
Adeline laughed breathlessly, sitting up to help him. “Patience, my love,” she teased, even as her fingers trembled with anticipation.
Finally, her gown fell away, leaving her in just her chemise. Edmund’s breath caught in his throat at the sight of her bathed in the soft glow of candlelight.
“You are exquisite,” he breathed, his hands skimming up her sides.
Adeline shivered at his touch, her back arching as his thumbs brushed the undersides of her breasts.
“Edmund,” she gasped, her fingers tangling in his hair as she pulled him down for another passionate kiss.
Her nipples hardened at the feel of his skin on hers. Her hands threaded through his hair as his mouth trailed down and closed around a nipple. As he sucked, she bit back a cry and arched against him.
“Slow down, my love,” Edmund whispered. “I want this to last.”
His hand slid down to stroke her where she needed him most. His fingers slid into her wet folds, sending shivers through her body. She strained to meet his hand with each stroke.
When he lifted his head, she let out a moan of protest, but he quickly moved to her other nipple to give it equal attention.
“I need you, Edmund,” Adeline begged. “I need you inside of me.”
When he slid into her, Adeline’s world tilted sideways with pleasure. The friction was almost too much for her body to bear. Every thrust pushed her closer to the edge. When he pressed harder, she clutched his shoulders, her nails digging into his skin.
Adeline’s body shook as she orgasmed, and a cry tore from her lips with Edmund’s final thrust. He let out a roar and spilled inside her.
As their passionate cries faded into the stillness of the night, Edmund gathered Adeline into his arms, cradling her against his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear was a soothing counterpoint to the emotions swirling within her.
“Adeline,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on her bare shoulder.
Adeline lifted her head to meet his gaze, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears of joy. “Edmund,” she whispered, her hand coming up to cup his cheek.
