Page 60 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
As they moved to the seating area, Kenneth couldn’t help but steal another glance at Beatrice. As she engaged in a lively discussion about art with the Dowager Duchess, her passion and intelligence shining through, he felt a growing admiration for her.
Perhaps, he thought, there was more to their marriage than just a practical arrangement. Perhaps, with time and understanding, it could turn into something more.
After returning to their townhouse and freshening up, Kenneth suggested a walk in the gardens to enjoy the evening air. Beatrice readily agreed, and they made their way outside, the city’s hustle and bustle fading into the background as they entered the serene gardens.
The evening air was perfumed with the delicate scent of blooming flowers. The soft rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze created a soothing ambiance, enveloping them in a world of their own.
Kenneth found himself irresistibly drawn to Beatrice, his gaze lingering on her as she walked beside him.
The way her brow furrowed slightly when she was lost in thought, as if pondering the mysteries of the universe, captivated him. Her slender fingers traced absent patterns on her gown, their graceful movements a mesmerizing dance that sent shivers down his spine. Every little gesture, every subtle expression, pulled him deeper under her spell.
Unable to hold back any longer, Kenneth broke the comfortable silence that had settled between them.
“Beatrice,” he said softly, her name a gentle caress on his lips, “the way you speak about art is absolutely enchanting. Your comments about the painting were not only profound but also incredibly moving.”
Beatrice looked up at him, her eyes widening slightly in surprise. A delicate blush bloomed on her cheeks, making her even more breathtaking in the fading light of dusk.
“Thank you, Kenneth,” she replied, her voice soft and filled with warmth. “It means a great deal to me that you find my thoughts so meaningful.”
Kenneth nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He felt a surge of admiration for this remarkable woman who could express herself with such passion and grace.
“Seeing your love and knowledge for art come alive as you speak is truly impressive. It’s like watching a master artist paint a canvas with words, each brushstroke revealing a new depth of understanding.”
As they continued their stroll through the gardens, Kenneth couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. The moonlight bathed her in a soft glow, making her look ethereal, almost otherworldly. The air between them was charged with an undeniable tension, and he knew he couldn’t resist any longer.
“Beatrice,” he whispered, his voice thick with desire.
She turned to him, her eyes wide and questioning.
Before she could say a word, he stepped closer, his hand gently cupping her cheek. He leaned in, his breath warm against her skin, and pressed his lips to hers in a slow, deliberate kiss.
Beatrice responded to his kiss with equal fervor, her hands sliding up to grip his shoulders. Kenneth deepened the kiss, his arms encircling her waist and pulling her closer.
The scent of blooming flowers and the rustling leaves seemed to fade into the background, leaving only the sound of their breathing and the pounding of their hearts.
He broke the kiss, his forehead resting against hers. “Come with me,” he murmured, his voice a husky whisper.
Beatrice nodded, her body thrumming with a mix of anticipation and desire.
Kenneth took her hand, leading her through the winding paths of the gardens until they reached a secluded alcove, hidden from view by tall hedges and blooming roses.
He turned to her, his eyes dark with lust.
“You’re mine, Beatrice,” he whispered, his voice filled with raw emotion.
Beatrice’s breath hitched as she met his gaze. “I’m yours, Kenneth,” she replied softly, her words a promise, a surrender.
With that, he pulled her into his arms once more, capturing her lips in a searing kiss that left her with no doubt about his intentions.
Slowly, he began to undo the laces of her gown, his movements sure and deliberate. The dress fell open, revealing the swell of her breasts and the creamy skin of her shoulders. He trailed his fingers along her collarbone, and she shivered with desire.
“God, you’re beautiful,” he whispered, his breath hot against her ear.
Beatrice moaned as he nipped her earlobe, sending shivers of pleasure down her spine.
His hands roamed over her body, leaving trails of fire in their wake. She could feel herself growing wet, and the aching desire between her legs intensified.
Kenneth unlaced the back of her corset, freeing her breasts from their confines. She gasped as the cool air hit her bare skin, her nipples hardening into tight peaks. He dipped his head, taking one into his mouth and sucking gently. She arched her back, pressing herself closer to him.
