“What secret talents you possess,” Thomas said.
Her cheeks shaded an adorable pink. “It’s not so good as all that.”
But Thomas was not about to let her demean her own abilities so easily. This desire is what drove him to reach out and hold her cheek, turning her to face him and lean in close to her ear. She went very still as he neared, but it did not stop him from whispering. “You are incredible.”
His lips accidentally brushed against her ear, and he found it easy enough to linger and press his lips to her cheek. It was heaven, to be so near her, to share such a beautiful moment with her. He wanted this. He wanted all of her.
Thomas was slow to pull away and paused in his retreat to look into her eyes. Only, his gaze lowered to her mouth, and he told himself to resist, even though it felt a natural progression to kiss her cheek and then her lips. He longed to do it but did not wish to press her for more than she was willing to give.
He brushed his finger along the side of her cheek and intended to sit back, but when his action made her lips part in a gasp, it set his heart to pounding, and he was unable to resist any further. Closing the distance between them, Thomas leaned in and met her mouth with his own.
It was only for a moment, but it was the sweetest moment in Thomas’s memory. Her lips were soft and warm, and where he’d expected hesitancy, he was met with her returned pressure. He wanted to gather her in his arms and deepen the kiss, but the release of her unsteady breath had him pulling away.
She pressed a hand to her mouth, her eyes a stormy blue color and full of shock. Thomas felt rushed with remorse and leaned back.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to…” He stood from his chair with resolve. “Forgive me. Please continue with your music. Stay as long as you’d like.” He gave her a small smile before standing and leaving the room.
Once outside the doors, Thomas leaned against the wall and sighed, like he’d been holding his breath for ages. The kiss had been short and tender, but powerful. It had confirmed everything he’d been feeling for her, but what did she feel for him? Was her gasp an indication of more than just surprise? Or did he need to refrain from such things in the future?
The tinkling of the keys at the pianoforte sounded, and Thomas smiled. She would not let her foolish husband’s kiss distract her or any physical restraint impede her. She was a marvel and a wonder, and he could not admire her more for it.