Mistletoe and Mayhem - Cheryl Bolen Page 0,184

kisses were utterly perfect. He may have set a standard that all future kisses must be measured against."

"Then what is your hesitation about pursuing more of them?" Beatrice studied Lorelei for a moment, always able to see what Lorelei tried to keep hidden. "And what has changed your mind from last night?"

Lorelei repositioned herself in the chair, taking a moment to bring order to her jumbled thoughts, all because of the intriguing man she had met merely one day ago.

"Do not attempt any stalling mechanisms," her sister warned with a chuckle. "My children have used all of them on me, so I am quite experienced at waiting you out."

"I am not stalling. I am merely trying to determine how to explain myself." Lorelei grinned. "Last evening was delightful. I was an inadvertent recipient of Martin's matchmaking efforts—"

"He has had several successes."

"So I have heard. But he attempted to match Desmond with another young woman, who changed her mind, and I took her place. It seemed harmless enough, allowing me the opportunity to enjoy some kisses. All while memorizing the decorations so I could regale you with the details," she added.

"I would much rather hear about the kisses. Though with my husband gone, it is probably best you do not describe them. I might fall into a jealous rage and stay in my sickbed forever."

They both laughed before Lorelei asked, "He is supposed to return soon, though, before the holidays have ended?"

"That is the hope, but it is not a certainty." Beatrice gave her another knowing look. "And do not think you have distracted me from my purpose."

"I know, I know. You have a repertoire of skills from handling Caroline and Henry. Though I may try to add to their repertoire, just to keep you on your toes in future."

Her sister laughed. "I will start thinking of an appropriate punishment for you. Now, tell me what changed your mind about pursuing Desmond, deliverer of those kisses of perfection."

"You are incorrigible." Lorelei hesitated. "You know I am usually amenable to a flirtation, or an affair of brief duration. In truth, it is my preference."

"Will you ever be amenable to something of a longer duration? Such as marriage? Not all of them are like yours was."

"I understand. I have no issues with the institution of marriage. I am just not convinced I am suited for it. The initial passion is bound to wane, I suppose, but then the daily responsibilities start to wear on everyone until it becomes a chore merely to utter pleasantries. I would much rather indulge in a short amour, taking my leave before it has a chance to descend to that once more. That is one of the prime benefits of being a widow, after all."

Her sister's expression was a bit more compassionate. "I hope to convince you one day that not all marriages follow that particular path. You can see how mine is, after all these years, and there is still a great deal of love." She winked. "Not to mention passion."

Lorelei sighed theatrically. "I am fortunate that your husband is still away, or I might fall into a fit of jealousy at what the two of you share."

"You are even more fortunate that a man whose kisses are the best you've ever experienced wants to kiss you again."

"I am indeed. I plan to kiss him until every bit of mistletoe in this shire has given up its berries this season."

"And afterwards?"

Lorelei winked. "Who knows?"

Chapter Four

Desmond stood with Martin in the large parlor, watching as Martin's guests milled about while waiting for the musicale to commence. The musicians in the front of the room quietly tuned their instruments. Liveried footmen presented trays filled with wine but Desmond was not interested.

He was impatient for Lorelei to arrive, a fact not lost on Martin.

"I still cannot believe my matchmaking attempt was nearly thwarted. Yet, even though you met with the wrong woman, I shall count this as my latest success."

"I can allow you that, since I am quite pleased with the outcome," Desmond replied. "But I cannot help but wonder—why did you not have me meet her instead of the original one?"

"I did not know she was in town!"

Desmond did his best to soothe Martin's ruffled feathers. "You are forgiven. I am enchanted with everything about her. Her laugh, her teasing banter. I swear I am already half in love after knowing her all of two days."

Martin snorted. "I am well aware your affairs d'amour have a short expiry date.