Rose Gardner's Florist (The Providence Street Shops #2) - Bonnie Dee Page 0,31
was.
After a moment, Rose opened her eyes to look dazedly at him. “You… That was… I am so embarrassed.”
“No! Have I offended or hurt you in some way? I apologize.”
She reached for his hand, holding it to her chest beneath which her heart pounded. “You did nothing wrong. I enjoyed it. A bit too much. I shouldn’t have come undone like that.”
Will was still confused about how he’d brought her ecstasy with a simple touch. These were not things a man was taught. Even Guy had never spoken in detail about his experience with ladies.
Rose smoothed away his frown with a touch. “I never meant for things to become so overheated. Perhaps it prompted by our exertions in the conservatory. But you mustn’t be concerned. I enjoyed it very much.”
“I am glad. Even if my behavior was improper, kissing you is the best experience I have ever had. I would happily do it again.”
“Maybe not just now,” she said gently. “For I fear where further contact might lead.”
As quickly as this storm had blown up, it was over. He had crossed a line, and she regretted their romantic interlude.
He shifted away. “I understand,” he said, although he felt like howling in disappointment. “I will not bother you again.”
“You misunderstand. I do not wish to end this aspect of our friendship. But for today we ought to take a moment to consider.” She grasped his hand between both of hers. “I like you, Will Carmody, more than I anticipated. I said our friendship should remain uncomplicated, but my feelings have begun to change. Have yours?”
He peered into her face, a bit blurry without his spectacles. “My feelings have not altered since first we met. They have only grown with every encounter. The more I come to know you, the more assured I am that you are a lady of the finest caliber and I am the luckiest man alive that you would grace me with your presence.”
Rose’s lips parted on a slight gasp and then she smiled. She must think him an overly emotional dolt. He should have stuck to his habitual silence rather than spout poetic nonsense.
“Those are the most beautiful words anyone has ever said to me… William. But I cannot imagine what amazing qualities you believe I possess. I am not at all special.”
“Ah, but you are, Miss Gardener. Your beauty is a given. But more than that, you are bright, industrious, independent and imaginative. You make grand plans and then work to execute them. I have witnessed what a stalwart friend you are to Hattie and to Guy. My admiration for you is legitimate, I assure you.”
“You paint a perfect picture of me, but that is not all of who I am. I have quite a temper, and can be selfish and dogged in pursuit of something I want.”
“Determined! I would add that to the list. What I cannot imagine is why you would have any interest in me. I am nothing to look at, nor am I charming like Hardy.”
“Surface charm is not the best of qualities. I like that you don’t make clever idle talk, although you have a dry wit on occasion. When you speak, I immediately trust what you say is true. And if I did not find your appearance appealing” — She swept her gaze slowly over Will’s body, making him squirm — “You may be certain I would not have thrown myself at you today in such a madcap fashion.”
She regarded him with a penetrating gaze. “In fact, I feel the desire rising again, so I believe I will take my leave, giving us both a chance to calm ourselves.” She leaned forward and kissed his cheek chastely.
Will closed his eyes at the light touch and the brush of her breath as she spoke again. “May I see you again very soon?”
“Yes, please.” He rose, took her hands and pulled her up to face him. Without thought or second guessing, he placed his arms around her as if they belonged there. “I understand your schedule is rather more hectic than mine. Whenever you would like, give me a call on the telephone. Will you please, Rose?”
A mischievous smile curved her lips. “I most certainly will.”
Chapter Eleven
“You are in a fine mood this morning.” Candace paused in her watering to regard her new employer. “What transformative magic has occurred to make you sing as you work?”
“Was I?” Even as she replied Rose could not control her grinning or the little song that