“Yes,” she replied. “You did something they never expected you to do. You showed up before them. You were talking to the people, and you made an effort. They all saw that. And because you did all that, it gave them the chance to make amends.”
That was when Rose knew that nothing would ever be the same. Finally, the chasm between the Duke of Montford and the village that surrounded his estate would slowly start to close, creating a bridge between the two sides that would finally unite them in a common goal.
Chapter 27
Rose stood in the library, a feather duster in hand, carefully cleaning the shelves lined with ancient tomes. The sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm glow on the rich woodwork and filling the room with a serene ambiance. She hummed softly to herself, lost in the rhythm of her work.
It had been a few days since the dreadful events, and yet, she felt as if they had happened several years ago. She consciously decided not to dwell on the negative past, and instead, focus on the positive future. Still, she could see that there were so many things that William needed to take care of beforehand, and she didn’t want to pressure him with things that could wait.
Well, wait… a little, she thought to herself. For she truly wished to discuss things with him, and see where their future might take them. She had so many hopes and dreams, and she wanted to think that William shared those same hopes and dreams with her.
The door creaked open behind her, bringing her back to the present moment, and she turned to see William entering the room. He closed the door quietly, a mischievous smile playing on his lips as he approached her.
“Hard at work, I see,” he said, his voice low and teasing.
Rose smiled, a light blush coloring her cheeks. “Someone has to keep this place in order.”
William stepped closer, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “And you do such an excellent job of it. But perhaps you could use a break?”
She tilted her head, a playful glint in her eyes. “A break? And what do you suggest I do during this break, Your Grace?”
He reached out, gently taking the duster from her hand and setting it aside. “I can think of a few things,” he murmured, his voice dropping to a seductive whisper.
Her heart quickened as he leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. “Such as?” she asked, her voice barely more than a breath.
William’s hand traced a line down her arm, sending shivers through her. “Such as allowing me the pleasure of your company,” he said, his lips hovering just above hers.
Rose felt herself drawn to him, their closeness making her pulse race. “And what would this company entail?” she asked, her eyes locked on his.
He grinned, his hand moving to cup her cheek. “Perhaps a conversation, perhaps something more,” he said, his lips finally meeting hers in a soft, lingering kiss.
She melted into him, the library and her duties forgotten as she lost herself at the moment. The kiss deepened, their passion igniting like a flame. When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless, their foreheads touching.
It was a raw moment, filled with vulnerability, but neither of them seemed to mind. On the contrary, they had become familiar with each other, comfortable in each other’s presence, although they had never taken their relationship to a fully physical, intimate level.
“I think I could get used to this kind of break,” Rose whispered, her eyes sparkling with happiness. Every time he kissed her, it was a completely new experience, one she relished, enjoyed every moment of.
“Oh, but this is not even the half of it, my dear,” he said playfully, whisking her up into his arms as her legs dangled over his strong arms.
“William! What on earth are you doing?” she giggled through the words.
“Why, I am taking you to my study, of course,” he replied, his eyes glinting with playful intent. “I believe we can continue our… conversation there.”
She raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “Oh? And what makes your study so special?”
William smirked. “You’ll see.”
They reached his study, a room filled with rich mahogany furniture and walls lined with books and maps. The sunlight streamed in through large windows, casting a warm glow over the room. William kicked the door shut behind them, not breaking his stride as he carried her to a chaise lounge.
“Comfortable?” he asked, gently setting her down.
Rose settled into the chaise lounge, looking up at him with a coy smile. “Very. Though I must admit, I was quite comfortable in your arms as well.”
William chuckled, sitting on the edge of his desk. “I’m glad to hear it. Now, where were we?”
She reached out, getting up and tugging at his cravat. “I believe we were discussing... conversations.”
He leaned in, his eyes darkening with desire. “Yes, important matters.”
