Page 5 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
God, how he missed making women flustered like that.
“It’s simply inappropriate,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.
He stepped closer, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Are you sure it’s just inappropriate? Or do you find it distracting?”
Beatrice’s cheeks flamed, and she turned her head slightly. “I am not accustomed to such immodesty.”
He chuckled, enjoying her discomfort. “Perhaps you should broaden your experiences, then. There’s nothing scandalous about the human body, wouldn’t you agree?”
Her eyes snapped back to his, irritation and embarrassment within them. “Please, put on a shirt.”
He chuckled softly. “Very well, if it puts you at ease.”
Kenneth walked over to a nearby chair where his shirt was draped. He took his time putting it on, his movements unhurried, aware of her eyes following him despite her best efforts to appear indifferent.
“Better?” he asked, fastening the last button.
She nodded. “Thank you.”
Kenneth tilted his head to the side, studying her.
“Wait a moment. Aren’t you the Duchess of Newden’s friend?” he asked, realization settling in. “Lady Beatrice Wickes, if I recall correctly.”
Her eyes widened in surprise.
“Who are you?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
“Catherine introduced us during a dinner at Newden Estate. It was shortly after their wedding,” he said and allowed her a moment to remember.
“Although we barely spoke, I wouldn’t think I have such a forgettable face, My Lady,” he added as he stepped closer, the faint candlelight casting shadows on her round cheeks.
“Your Grace,” she breathed, realization flashing across her face.
The flush on her cheeks made her appear even more alluring, and his pulse quickened.
Now that he was closer, the scent of her perfume filled his nostrils. It was a sweet and intoxicating blend: flowers and a soft breeze of spring.
At that point, most of his irritation had evaporated. Despite himself, he could not help but admire her beauty.
“Yes, and you still have not explained why you are here,” he said, a hint of suspicion lingering in his tone. “If your intention is to get into my bed, My Lady, it is not working as you might hope.”
Her eyes flashed with anger. “I assure you, Your Grace, I have no intention of getting into your bed.”
“Oh? Then what were you doing, wandering into my chambers?”
“I told you, I got lost!” she snapped, crossing her arms over her chest defensively. “Not everyone is here to play games.”
He took another step towards her, the air between them thick with tension.
“Really? Because it seems awfully convenient that you, of all people, would end up here.”
Her jaw tightened, frustration clear in her posture.
“Believe what you will, Your Grace, but I do not appreciate being accused of something so improper.”
Kenneth leaned in, placing a hand on the door beside her head, effectively trapping her.
He could feel the heat radiating from her body. He sensed her attraction, her breathing quickening as he drew closer, the proximity stirring something primal within him.
