Page 77 of Midnight with the Marquess (The St. Clairs 2)

“Because I want you to do so.”

His brows arched. “And why is that?”

She sniffed. “Can’t a woman merely want to do something for the sake of doing it?”

He chuckled. “That’s not very flattering.”

“I did not mean to insult you, Merrifield. What I want to do is kiss you, though. You’ve given me the impression you’d like to do so. You’ve shown you’re interested in me. We’ve danced together. Supped. I enjoy our conversations.” She smiled at him winningly. “I do think I’d enjoy your kiss. That you would, as well.”

Rachel paused and thought he would act.

He didn’t.

Frustrated, she asked, “Aren’t you going to kiss me? I’m giving you permission to do so.”

He thought a long moment and then softly said, “No, I don’t think I shall.”

His answer took her aback. “Why not?”

Merrifield cupped her cheek. Warmth spread through her. “I will kiss you when I think it’s time. When I know you yearn for it. When it’s something you constantly think about. Right now, you like me. You find me amusing. But I want more than that from you, Rachel. I want you to burn for me.”

With that, he escorted her back into the ballroom.

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