Mistletoe and Mayhem - Cheryl Bolen Page 0,235

sheer happiness and reached for his hand hanging at his side to hook her pinkie with his in a discreet show of affection. Whatever they’d found together was rare. It could lead to something real and lasting. Or she hoped it could. Perhaps Julius felt passion and a deep sense of connection at the start of every new affair, but she’d not dwell on it. For now, she would cherish what they had.

When the country dance ended, he beckoned for a footman to take away their half empty glasses. “I have it on good authority a waltz is next,” Julius said. “Will you dance with me?”

“My pleasure.”

Since Gemma and Bess were last minute guests, neither had dance cards to sign. This detail didn’t pose much of a barrier. Bess had no desire to dance with anyone besides Julius, and Gemma wasn’t given a chance to catch her breath between sets before one of his brothers or cousins led her back on the floor. Her effervescent giggles suggested she didn’t mind.

Julius’s hand rested lightly on Bess’s upper back while they waited for the quartet to play. “You look beautiful tonight,” he murmured. When his hungry gaze locked on her and glittered like obsidian in the light of the chandelier, she felt like a goddess—desirable, wanted.

A slight change in pressure on her back signaled her that the dance had begun. She’d missed the opening bars of music. As he guided her around the floor, their movements were natural, as if they had been partners for years. How odd that it felt like they had known each other a lifetime when they were strangers only a week earlier.

Bess delicately cleared her throat. “I never thanked you for inviting us to spend Christmas with your family.”

“I assure you”—he drew her closer and smiled—“my motive was selfish, love.”

She knew it wasn’t true. Gemma said he’d been compassionate and kind when she cried at Davensworth Cottage. He was a good man, even if he didn’t want it acknowledged.

Instead of challenging him, she said, “I enjoyed spending time with your family yesterday. They made me feel welcome.”

“The feeling is mutual. My mother even complimented you.” A wry smile twisted his lips. “She finds it admirable that you took in your cousin and her servants.”

“I did what anyone would for family.” Or should.

“Believe me, Mother agrees with you. She values family above all else.”

Bess smiled. She expected no less from a woman who had inspired her son’s respect for the fairer sex. “I am pleased I met with her approval.”

“As long as you recognize her authority at Everly Manor, you will remain in her good graces.” He grinned. “I wouldn’t advise taking me to task within earshot, even if I deserve it. She can be fierce when defending her offspring.”

“In that case…” Bess cocked an eyebrow, teasing him as he often did to her. “If I were you, I would be careful not to cross me.”

“I offer no promises.” The waltz came to an end. He threaded her hand through the crook of his elbow and murmured, “You are irresistible when you’re passions run high.”

She shushed him, although no one was close enough to eavesdrop.

“I have a gift for you.” He drew her toward an arched door at the end of the great hall. “I know a quiet place where we can talk.”

The music and merrymaking faded as they walked along the corridor. A footman came into view. He inclined his head as they neared. “My lord, the room is as you requested.”

“Very good, Ned. Thank you.” Julius kept his gaze focused straight ahead and led her inside. A fire blazed in the hearth, and candelabra glowed from the mantel. Bess strolled to the middle of the formal drawing room. It was a feminine space with ornate furniture upholstered in pastel floral fabrics, thick coordinating carpets, and gilding everywhere. The decor was tasteful, but designed to impress. She imagined Julius’s mother, the Marchioness of Seabrook, receiving important guests in the room. Clove studded oranges were nestled into a crystal bowl with sprigs of holly and filled the room with the quintessential scent of Christmas.

The sound of the door latching caught her by surprise. She spun on her heel and discovered she and Julius were alone. He sauntered toward her with a wicked twinkle in his eyes.

“Julius, there are dozens of guests on the other side of that door.”

“No one will disturb us. Ned is keeping watch.” He gathered her in his arms, leaning his forehead against hers. “I’ve