Page 46 of The Duke's Lesson in Love

ChapterEighteen

Sadie lounged on a chair in the far corner of Gill’s study as he caught up on estate business following their departure from Scotland. She made a mental note to add lighting and brightness to the gloomy reading area. She plucked a book from the bookshelf, but the newness of her position made her too anxious to read.

Within weeks, she had left the orphanage, became a governess, and now she was not only a wife but a Duchess. A smile teased the corners of her mouth at the latter.

“With the announcement of our nuptials, we will be required to attend a few balls,” Gill said, the words sounding distasteful.

“We do not have to attend if you do not wish.” The idea of being gawked at did not appeal to her in the least nor did the thought of being anyone’s evening entertainment.

He shook his head. “I wish that were true. As the new Duchess of Montdale House, you must be properly introduced into society. It’s not as bad as all that, I have a few friends among the peerage that will show support.”

He was right. If nothing else, a public appearance would temper speculation about the legitimacy of their marriage. Yet, her fingers tightened on the book. “Gill, I wasn’t raised for a life of nobility…what if they don’t accept me?” What if he came to regret his choice? Marrying for Edwin was one matter, but Edwin would grow, then what?

“I do not give a fig if a bunch of snobs think you are a wise choice as my wife or not. All the acceptance you need is in this house.”

She held his gaze, comforted he wasn’t wavering in his choice of a wife.

“But we need to show a united front and if anything were to happen to me, you may need alliances to help navigate the politics of having a title.”

Her heart skipped a beat at the reminder of the injuries hidden beneath his waistcoat. She came close to losing him and though he was not hers at the time, didn’t lessen her fear.

Gill walked around his desk and crouched before the chair. The woody scent of his aftershave invaded her nose. “While the crown does not prevent our marriage, there are many who object to mixed unions. Many in high positions. I cannot have your place questioned or the legitimacy of our heirs.”

She nodded.

“It shan’t be easy, my heart. If you will stand by me, for as long as I draw breath, I will do my utmost to see you and any children we might produce happy.”

“I am happy,” she assured. “I will always do my part to protect our family.” She meant every word. Gill was not protected by or from the people who claimed to love him. She couldn’t heal the scars from his past, just like she couldn’t ignore the enslavement and death of her parents, but perhaps love could lessen the burden for both of them.

Leaning forward, his lips brushed hers.

Slow.

Teasing.

Seeking entry.

His tongue swept into her mouth, exploring every part of her heart and soul. He was hers. All hers. Boldly, she ran her tongue against the roof of his mouth and groaned when his answering shiver snaked through her and to the base of her spine.

He was a magnificent kisser, giving and taking in his pleasure.

Suddenly, he broke their kiss. His forehead rested against hers as they panted for air. “If we do not cease now, I will lift your skirts and take you right here in this chair.”

“I can’t imagine us fitting in this chair, Your Grace.” She giggled at the absurdity of the suggestion.

“I assure you; we will fit and you, my lady, will enjoy every moment of it.”

Her breath caught when he rolled a button holding her bodice between his fingers. Surely, he wasn’t considering... Yet, the idea was as arousing as the thought of getting caught was wicked.

“I can smell your essence, Sadie.” His gaze fastened on the pulse at the base of her throat. “You are ready for me.”

A deep flush tinged her skin. Denying the words was impossible, not when the juncture between her thighs was slick with need. Sharing a bed with Gill had turned her into a wanton woman.

His groan rumbled in his chest. “Perhaps another time when your cries of pleasure will not disturb the entire household.”

“My cries?” She ran her thumb down the center of his lips, pulling lower until she exposed the pink flesh beneath. “Certainly, your thundering shouts of release are enough to wake the dead.”

“Fair.” Gill chuckled, tugging the button again. “I know your penchant for sensible wool dresses, but I have taken the liberty of commissioning dresses that suit your station.”

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