Page 40 of The Last Chance
She could contradict him and reveal his many fine qualities but decided to take a different approach.
“Have you thought we might not suit?” They would suit. She knew it like she knew her own name. “A quick experiment would put all your troubles to bed. If one tells themselves they cannot have walnut cake, it becomes the most appetising one on display. The painting that’s not for sale becomes the greatest masterpiece.”
“What are you saying?”
“You know what I’m saying, but you’re afraid to test the waters.”
They were alone, the soft candlelight creating a sensual ambience. If she couldn’t get him to kiss her now, she never would.
“You have my permission to kiss me.” Desire unfurled in her belly as the words left her lips. “What harm can it do? It will probably be a relief to get it over with, and then the masterpiece will seem like any other bland painting on the wall.”
He did not argue with her reasoning.
“And I would like to move to a warmer room.” She placed her hand on his chest and kept an impassive expression. She hadnever been this close to him before. He was breathtaking. “A quick peck should suffice. Should I close my eyes? This will be the first time I have ever been kissed. I pray it’s mildly pleasant.”
She felt like Eve tempting Adam to eat the apple. But the world would be a better place once Mr Chance lowered his defences.
“I’m not someone a lady chooses for her first kiss.”
“Because you’re rough and uncouth?”
“Because I’d devour you.”
Why did that sound so appealing?
“Then I’m glad I’m not a lady.”
“You won’t like it when I lose control.”
“When have you ever lost control?” She could imagine his inner devil tugging on his restraints, willing them to snap.
“I suspect I might with you,” he uttered, the longing in his voice undeniable. He wanted to kiss her but refused to surrender.
The confession sent her pulse soaring. It felt like her happiness pivoted on this single moment. This one crucial decision could shift the balance either way. Dare she take a risk?
She moved her fingers slightly before gripping his waistcoat lapel. “Forgive me. I have always been too curious for my own good and lack your restraint.”
Before he replied, she came up on her toes and pressed her mouth to his. His lips were warm and soft and utterly immovable. That didn’t stop her from brushing hers slowly over his, relishing the feel of him, savouring the faint taste of cinnamon and brandy from their late-night dessert. It didn’t stop the butterflies in her stomach or the giddy excitement urging her to continue.
But he released her wrist, forcing her to break contact.
“I should have known you’d play a winning hand.”
“A lady must sneak past your defences. What a shame my first kiss was less than average. Perhaps it proves we don’t suit.”
“That wasn’t a kiss. A kiss requires two willing participants.”
“Agreed.” She released him, her formidable foe. “Good night, Mr Chance. Let’s pray I’m not frozen to death in the morning.”
He shocked her by saying, “Good night? Do you think I’d let you leave believing I’m less than average? You must experience the reason for my reticence. If only this once. Though you will make certain promises before we continue.”
She swallowed hard. He was going to kiss her.
“Yes?”
“You won’t mention it to anyone. We won’t have this discussion again. Do you understand? You’ll pretend it never happened.”
“You have my word.” A desperation to feel close to him would have her agreeing to anything.
