Page 17 of A Duke's Lustful Riddle
Gabriel’s silhouette was silhouetted by the soft glow of the flickering fireplace that appeared behind him. His shirt was partially unbuttoned, exposing his muscular chest that glistened under the firelight. The distinct possibility that she would lose all track of everything now was growing from deep within her body.
Gemma had only seen his backside the other night, but the sight of his chest set her heart a flutter. Something about Gabriel was so manly and so untouched. This man was the entirety of all of the boiling passions within her, and she was frightened of what could take place between the two of them.
Gemma couldn’t believe the perfect sight in front of her. He was completely a man in a way she did not understand.
Gabriel took a step towards her, and the movement suspended in time. It was as if Gemma was frozen as Gabriel approached her with slow and meaningful steps.
His gaze locked onto hers as he gently tilted her head upward and planted a tender kiss on her lips.
Gemma had never been kissed before, but she knew what to do, as it was just a dream.
She applied slight pressure with her mouth against his, as a firestorm flared within her stomach. The fireplace behind them blaring like the inferno in her belly.
Gabriel and Gemma stayed attached at the mouth, exchanging sweet and gentle kisses. Nothing more than lip against lip, but it was all Gemma needed in her dream. The feel of Gabriel’s mouth against her was everything in that moment.
This intimate encounter, though a dream, left Gemma startled when she awakened.
She chastised herself. “A dream, you silly girl. It was just a dream of all things.”
Her heart was pounding, and the memory of the kiss lingered on her mind.
Gemma realized in that moment, that she was attracted to the duke and that realization scared her. For all of her intense ruminations, this attraction was feeling even more powerful as the days passed by.
Such was the way of her heart. Oh, what a season it was going to be, indeed.
***
Gabriel
The study had become like a second home to Gabriel during the last few days since he had been back at the Ashbourne Estate. He had settled himself into the study in order to hold conference with Hugh regarding Lady Alice’s soiree.
As the new duke, he was obliged to make public appearances but the idea of attending Lady Alice’s soiree the next evening burdened him heavily. It did not feel like time well spent to attend a social event when there was so much to be done at the estate, with very little funds to do it.
His time would be better spent studying and analyzing potential investments and prioritizing estate issues to be repaired. It also did not sit well with his senses that Hugh would not let him send his regrets.
“I can attend the soiree with you, Gabriel,” Hugh offered his company. “Social engagements could potentially offer valuable business connections to aid in restoring the funds of the estate. With the two of us in attendance, I think we could really make some great business deals.”
Gabriel realized, with a sinking stomach at the mention of low funds, that Hugh had a point, but that still did not make him want to attend.
“I think it would be a prudent move, indeed. I haven’t been to a season event since before I left London, and it would be nice to have you with us.” Gabriel rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
Hugh was presenting a most illuminating reason for Gabriel inevitably needing to attend the soiree, after all. He could kill two birds with one stone. Make deals and present Gemma to society. He needed to make up for her last coming out, which he learned was disastrous.
“Us?” Hugh’s brows furrowed together.
“Yes, Gemma will be attending with me since she will be a part of the season this year.” Gabriel stated as though it were a fact.
Hugh’s mouth fell open with a small laugh, and he raised his eyebrows. “And what does Gemma think of this? Have you asked her if she wants to attend yet?”
“It does not matter what she thinks. I am her guardian, and she will listen to what I have to say,” Gabriel said sternly.
He was getting sick of people not understanding that he was now the head of the estate. The Duke of Ashbourne. He had taken his time in returning and embracing his new duties. Now, he has returned, at much urging from Hugh himself, to take over the role and he has received nothing but questions at every turn about decisions he has every right to make.
Their discussion was cut short when Kingsley announced that they had a visitor.
“Miss Beaumont has arrived,” Kingsley said as he opened the door, and a petite lady entered the room.
Miss Beaumont was to be Gemma’s newly appointed lady's companion. She was older and had graying hair but a warm smile on her face. She reminded Gabriel of an aunt of sorts.
