Page 26 of To Win a Viscount's Heart
Selena turned to Gerald, her face aglow. “Isn’t it the most beautiful sight you’ve ever seen?”
“You’rethe most beautiful sight I’ve ever seen,” he whispered. He tipped her chin up and slowly lowered his mouth to hers. Her lips were soft—almost silky against his own. A sweet sigh escaped her as he deepened the kiss. He could feel the soft tickle of her breath beneath his nose as the tips of his fingers twined in the loose dark curls framing her face. In that moment, time stood still.
~*~
Chapter Nine
The next morning
The sun peeking through the sheer, lace curtains of the room, awakened Selena. Stretching, she leaned back and looked at the prisms of color beaming through the clear, leaded cathedral glass transoms above the windows on the wall opposite her bed. The blue of the sky signaled a clear day, one without rain. Although the sun shower yesterday had been perfect.
Smiling, she leaned back and reflected on her picnic luncheon with Gerald—his heartfelt apology, the unexpected shower, the swans, and …that kiss. She had dreamed about that kiss. The touch of his lips sent small quivers of pleasure up her back. Her instincts told her she’d never experienced those feelings before.
Her heart was aflutter at the thought of seeing Gerald again. He said he would see her today, and weather permitting, they might take a walk…he also mentioned something about a surprise. She could not help the excitement from bubbling inside her. Even though she still hadn’t reclaimed her memories, she was feeling hopeful about the future. She’d been so ill and only just starting to feel stronger, but she also needed to talk to Gerald about her mother. He’d sent a missive to his parents and his friend Asher informing them of the situation and was certain they had answers for them when they arrived. She prayed her mother was safe, but she couldn’t help but wonder and worry about what happened. She still didn’t know the reason she’d ridden to Gerald’s estate.
The door opened and Anna entered carrying a breakfast tray and a beautiful dark pink muslin dress over her arm. “Good morning, Miss Selena. I brought you some chocolate and biscuits.” She set the tray down on the table next to Selena’s bed.
“Good morning, Anna. Thank you for the chocolate and biscuits. Isn’t it just the most glorious day?”
“If you’re referring to the sunshine and blue skies, then I agree.” Anna grinned. “What are your plans for the day?”
“I’m not sure. Gerald mentioned that he might have a surprise for me. Perhaps a walk…” Selena took a sip of the chocolate and closed her eyes in bliss. “What a lovely gown, you have there,” she said indicating the dress Anna laid on the bed.
“It’s for you, Miss. I made it from an older dress of pink muslin that I found in a trunk in the attic. Mrs. Evans said it would be fine for me to alter. I think it must have belonged to the former mistress of the house…before Lord Lawrence arrived. It’s a day dress, and I’m anxious to see it on you.”
“It’s beautiful. Thank you for your generosity. That shade of pink is so rich and pretty. Almost a rose pink.” She reached out and touched it. “It’s exquisite. And the delicate floral embroidery is so lovely…Do you know what kind of flowers those are? The name seems to have escaped me.”
“They are pansies, Miss. They are very popular around here in the colder weather—as long as the rabbits and deer don’t get to them,” Anna chuckled. “That used to happen at home quite regularly.”
“I suppose they like to eat, too.” Selena winked. “I can understand how that might frustrate a gardener, though.”
I thank you again for this beautiful dress. You are as generous as you are talented, Anna.”
Anna gave a shy smile and placed the dress on the back of a nearby chair. “I am happy to help. We were so worried when you developed a fever. Thank goodness Doctor Baker was able to find the reason for the infection. Are you feeling better today?”
“Yes, each day I feel a bit stronger. I imagine I’ll be prone to headaches for a while.”
“Aye, I can imagine that, but I’m pleased you are feeling stronger. Do you feel up to a bath today?
“I would love a bath,” Selena said. “Would you be able to style my hair?”
“Of course.” The young maid nodded. “I’ll wash and bandage the wound first and then style your hair. I promise to hide the bandage.”
“You’re so good to me, Anna. Thank you,” Selena said. “Gerald mentioned that we might go for a walk later. However, I’d very much like to spend time with my horse this morning. Would you be able to accompany me?”
“I’d be happy to escort you to the stables. Mrs. Evans has a few things she needs me to do today, so I will escort you and then return to get you later. Will that be all right?”
“Yes, I think so. I feel much better on my feet. There’s no dizziness. I promise I will take it slow and not overtax myself,” Selena said.
An hour later, Selena was dressed in her new, day gown. Despite not having regained her memory, she felt better physically, and her heart was still full of joy from yesterday. And she was also looking forward to visiting with Azure.
Selena and Ann left the manor house and headed towards the stable. When they walked inside, the stable seemed quiet.
“Are you sure you feel comfortable being here, Miss?” Anna asked. “I don’t feel good about leaving you on your own.”
“She won’t be here on her own, Anna,” a young boy said, coming out from a stall, carrying a bucket of feed.
“Joshua. I’m glad you are here. Have you met Miss Selena?” Anna said.
