Page 110 of Impeccable
“We could, but I confess I was looking forward to having you alone in the coach without him.” Ash had been an energetic presence during their journey from Witney to London, requiring frequent stops.
Smiling, Evie said, “All right. Just you and me, then.”
Gregory handed her into the coach. “It’s not a terribly long ride to Richmond, but it will be pleasant to have the coach to ourselves.”
Evie sat on the rear-facing seat, and he snuggled in beside her, reaching for the blanket to drape over their legs. As the coach moved forward, Gregory kissed Evie’s cheek.
She turned her head. “What was that for?”
“Do I need a reason?”
She pressed herself against him. “Never. Do you really think it’s wise for us to look at this house in Richmond? Perhaps we should make sure we have enough to found the ladies’ club first.”
“I know you doubt that we do, but we went over everything with Al, Heloise, and your father at Threadbury Hall. Everyone is in agreement that the ladies’ club is an excellent business proposition, and with Al and Heloise’s investment, we have plenty of our own funds to purchase a house for respite outside London.” They’d discussed their desire to have an escape but didn’t want to be too far from the city Evie loved.
“Then I suppose I must tell Lucien about it soon. I fear he’ll feel betrayed that I wish to open another club.”
“I think he will be wholly supportive. It won’t compete with the Phoenix Club.”
“He’s rather tense just now,” Evie said, her tone concerned.
They’d seen him last night, and he’d been guarded about the club. Evie still worried that her staying was a mistake.
“He is optimistic things will improve,” Gregory murmured. “He said the night before last was their best attendance in weeks.”
Evie frowned. “But it’s half of what it was before my past was exposed. What if people only came because they’d heard we were back in town and they hoped to see us?”
Gregory shrugged. “If it gets people into the club, who cares?” He angled his body toward hers. “Unless that upsets you.”
“Not particularly. I don’t enjoy being a pariah, but I can’t worry what other people think or say about me.”
He reached to cup her other cheek and turn her head toward his so he could place another kiss on her lips. “I admire you so very much.”
“I have everything I want. It seems silly to be bothered by things I can’t control.” She kissed him back, then pressed her shoulders against the squab and stretched her neck, revealing a small but tantalizing patch of flesh. “Now, tell me again how many rooms this house has?”
Gregory couldn’t think of anything but kissing that delectable spot. So he did. “Mmm, I can’t remember just now.”
“Are you still intent on hiring some of your brother’s London retainers away from his household?”
“Most definitely.” He continued kissing her neck.
Evie giggled. “Can’t you wait until we’re on the way back to London?”
He pressed his lips beneath her ear. “Why not nowandon the way back?”
“I’ve created an insatiable beast.” She arched her neck to give him even more access with his mouth. “And you used to be such an impeccable gentleman.”
Lifting his head, he looked into her captivating blue eyes. “You’ve created nothing. I am the man I’ve always been, just waiting for an impeccable lady.”
She gave him a saucy smile. “I don’t know that I’ve ever beenthat, but I was waiting for you too—I just didn’t know it.”
“All thanks to a dog,” he said with a soft laugh before returning his lips to her neck.
She took his hat off and ran her fingers through his hair. “Ash completely changed my life. I never dreamed of such happiness with you and with my father returned.” Her voice caught, and Gregory lifted his gaze to hers once more.
“Don’t for a moment think you don’t deserve it. I’m going to make sure all your days are filled with joy and laughter.”
“You can’t guarantee that, Sir Cheerful, but I believe you will do your best, and I trust you more than I’ve ever trusted anyone in my life.” She touched his cheek and looked at him with emotion so deep, it stole his breath. “Thank you.”
