Fire tore through him as she urged him to expand his exploration.
And he did so.
There was something glorious about her body. The way she felt in his arms.
He wanted to ravage her. He wanted to protect her.
He wantedher.
In this moment, in this kiss, everything felt perfect.
A gentle breeze surrounded them and lightly tossed her dark curls. A shaded arbor protected them from the heat of the sun and the sight of those indoors. He breathed in the lavender scent of her skin.
He could kiss her and inhale her forever.
Yes, she was perfect.
Even her breasts were just the right plumpness against his chest. Her bottom was just the right amount of pertness. He felt her every wriggle as she squirmed against his thighs.
Yes, they would be good together in bed.
He needed to marry Florence.
By the heat of her response, he knew she would give herself to him this very night if he asked. She was so hungry for love and to be loved.
So was he. For her.
Only for her.
It saddened him that she had never been properly courted. His loveable, fake bird watcher deserved better than a stolen kiss or two in an arbor, did she not?
He could court her after their marriage, perhaps. It might be perceived as unusual. But everything about Florence was unusual, so why not? He meant to marry her as soon as this Frampton affair was over and done.
Mine, Florence. You are mine.
She was the first to ease away from their blistering kiss, laughing lightly while catching her breath. “Oh my. That was…”
He arched an eyebrow. “Unexpected?”
“Yes.” Her expression softened and her eyes held the loveliest glow. “And wonderful. I could kiss you forever.”
He gave her cheek a gentle caress. “Mutual, Florence.”
“But I think we chased poor Timmons away. He was about to step onto the terrace with a tray in hand when you suddenly swept me up in your arms and kissed me into eternity. He sprang away like a mountain goat being chased by a leopard.”
Trajan laughed. “He knows I am going to marry you. No harm done, unless you still think marrying me is a bad idea.”
“No, it was always an excellent idea. There was never a doubt in my mind.” She placed her hand over his heart. “Any reluctance on my part has to do with fear ofyoucoming to harm. I am so sorry you were dragged into my problems.”
He kissed her again, this one deep and gentle, but packing more heat as his mouth moved over hers in a slow and sensual grind.
“Trajan,dear heaven,” she whispered.
Her breathy moans undid him. He shuddered and drew his lips off hers before things went any further.
“That was nice. It felt awfully naughty, but very nice,” she admitted, casting him a soft smile.
“Ah, Florence. You have no idea whatreally naughtyfeels like.”
