Page 54 of Empowered By the Earl (Second Sons of London 3)

Lord Boxling’s lips pressed against hers again, firmer this time. His hands tightened on her shoulders. Both her hands went to his waistcoat, gripping it tightly. She sensed that he was holding back. Part of her appreciated that he respected her and did so. The other half wished he would use his tongue so that she could compare his kiss to Owen’s.

How did one ask a man to kiss that way?

Louisa thought back to what Owen had taught her. If she used her tongue, the viscount might be shocked beyond words. But she could open to him—and see what he did.

She relaxed her jaw slightly, her lips parting. She felt him stiffen slightly and worried he would think her loose.

His teeth sank softly into her bottom lip. And yes, a little tingle did surface quickly before fading. He eased the pressure and swiped at the place with his tongue. But then he kissed her again. No tongue involved. It was very pleasurable.

Breaking the kiss, he smiled down at her. “I hope you don’t think me too forward, Louisa.”

“No, I don’t think that at all, my lord. I believe you are very respectful of me.”

He framed her face with his hands. “I hope we can get to know each other better over the next few days.”

“I would like that very much, my lord.”

And she meant it. This nice, attractive, intelligent man was certainly worth getting to know.

“Shall we continue our ride?” he asked.

“Yes, I have a few other places I would like to show you.”

“Good.” He bent and quickly pressed a soft kiss against her lips and then straightened.

They returned to their horses and he stepped to her, his hands fastening about her waist.

“Thank you for allowing me to kiss you.”

“I should be thanking you, my lord.” She smiled. “It was very nice.”

He lifted her into the saddle and they continued their ride. When they started back to the house, they came across the large group and fell in behind them. Louisa wondered if anyone would even realize that two of their party had gone off on their own during Everett’s tour.

Georgie met her as they returned to the stables. “How was Fancy today, Miss Goulding?”

“She was in good spirits.” Glancing at Lord Boxling, she added, “It was a most pleasant time.”

The viscount helped her from the saddle and Georgie took their horses, leading them away. Everett was telling everyone to gather on the terrace for refreshments.

“I think the ladies need a few minutes to freshen up and change our gowns, Your Grace,” Miss Peterson said and all the females murmured in agreement.

“I will see you in a few minutes, my lord,” Louisa promised Lord Boxling and then joined the group of women heading toward the house.

She went to her bedchamber and rang for Tilly. The maid already had a fresh gown placed upon the bed and brought water with her.

“Let’s get you out of that habit, Miss, and you can wash some before stepping into your morning gown,” Tilly told her.

Within a quarter-hour, Louisa felt refreshed, eager to continue her conversation with Lord Boxling. She left her bedchamber and headed down the corridor, only to find Owen waiting for her near the stairs.

“Where were you?” he demanded.

She frowned. “Why, I was changing from my riding habit as the others.”

He took her elbow. Heat from him seared into her.

“I meant during the ride.”

“Oh, that.”

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