Page 72 of The Duke and Lady Scandal
“How could I?” He took a few steps closer. “I was in love myself once, you know.”
“We haven’t declared—”
He lifted a hand to stop her, though Allie already felt heat seeping into her cheeks.
“I’m pleased for you, Miss Prince.” He tutted and dipped his chin. “You know your own mind.”
“It hasn’t always felt that way.” She’d been waiting for so long. Waiting to be included in her family’s adventures. Waiting for her moment to shine.
“I believe it’s always been true.” He assessed her, but his gaze held warmth and kindness. “You need not live up to anything, you know. You’re clever and spirited and must carve your own path.”
Such a summation from a man who usually avoided emotion felt a bit like receiving an unexpected gift.
“Thank you, Mr. Gibson.”
“Of course.” He smiled and tipped his hat at her. “Now, I must be off. Good evening to you, Miss Prince.”
He headed for the front door in his usual clipped gait, but he stopped at the threshold and turned back to her.
“Lord Holcroft’s diamond will be finished on time. He asked for it to be delivered Monday. The chips alone will make for fine jewelry pieces.”
“Wonderful.”
“I’m glad to know he wasn’t some ne’er-do-well.”
Allie chuckled. “I’m very relieved too.”
He nodded and then headed out into the chilly autumn evening. After dousing all the lights and checking that all the shop’s most valuable items were locked away, Allie did the same.
She wanted to rush over to see Ben immediately, but she headed home first to wash and change into something finer than the serviceable black skirt and white shirt she’d worn to work.
A little over half an hour after leaving Princes, she stood on his doorstep.
She only knocked once before he opened the door and reached for her.
He took her hand and led her to the drawing room, and she was on the verge of asking if his sister was at home when he closed the door and wrapped her in his arms.
The kiss was the sweetest welcome she’d ever had in her life. His lips were warm and eager, and she clutched at his shirtfront, every bit as hungry for him.
He threaded his fingers in the hair at her nape, and a pin slipped free.
“Forgive me.” He whispered the words against her lips and then bent to retrieve the fallen pin.
“Don’t ever apologize for that sort of welcome.” She opened her hand, and he laid the escaped pin in her palm. “I could get used to being greeted in that manner.”
He smiled at that and watched her as she replaced the pin, his gaze roving over the features of her face as if he was memorizing the sight of her.
“I take it you’re pleased to see me.” No one had ever looked at her the way Ben did, as if she was as fascinating as a gem with endless facets.
“I am always pleased to see you, but I didn’t even give you a chance to take off your coat.” He moved behind her as he spoke, then reached around for the lapels of her coat.
Allie grasped his hands, savoring the feel of having his arms around her.
“Are you all right?” He tilted his head to look at her.
“Just enjoying the moment.” She shrugged out of her coat and spun to face him. “Was your day as interesting as mine?”
His warm, welcoming smile didn’t match the two carved lines between his brows.
