Page 36 of In Scandal with the Duke
“I suppose this is our stop,” James said, observing her surprised expression with a good-natured gleam in his eyes. “Unless you want to forgo the gardens and play chess instead.”
“No,” Elizabeth replied, reluctantly setting aside the chessboard. The game had been absorbing, and she was genuinely impressed by James’s playing. The journey had flown by, filled with unexpected camaraderie and the thrill of intellectual challenge.
As they stepped out of the carriage, she adjusted her hat and straightened her jacket, taking a deep breath to steady herself. The cool night air was fragrant with the scents of the gardens, and the sounds of merriment beckoned enticingly. At the entrance to Vauxhall Gardens, the gateway was brilliantly illuminated by the array of lanterns. She was conscious of the curious glances they attracted—her disguise was effective enough at a glance, but Elizabeth feared that up close, her softer features might raise suspicions.
“Relax,” James said, “Your disguise is impeccable, and you make a very convincing gentleman even if your derriere is a bit too lush.”
Elizabeth blushed, pleased and a bit flustered by his words. James paid the fee and they entered. The gardens were bustling with people, laughter, and music filling the air, creating a lively atmosphere that promised a night of delight and diversion. She felt a thrill of freedom mingling with the novelty of her disguise.
“Goodness. My brother mentioned this place to me in his letters, but I never imagined it would be this lovely or large! It is impossible to explore everything they have to offer tonight. Oh, James, do say we will come again.”
“We can visit as much as you want to.”
Looking about, she continued, “One of the reasons I longed to visit London was for the pleasure gardens and the museums! I confess my family has only been concerned with balls and more balls! Where else do you recommend that we explore?”
“How sturdy are your feet?”
Elizabeth gracefully stuck out her right leg. “I would say I have about four hours of walking.”
James chuckled. “We can explore the Grand South Walk, Lovers’ Walk, a couple of pavilions, and the Dark Walk. The paths are illuminated by as many as fifteen thousand colorful, glass lanterns hung among the trees.”
“Fifteenthousand?”
“Some reports say over twenty thousand.”
“How impressive.”
“We can also visit the Chinese Temples and the Cascade—a faux waterfall that is lovely. There will also be a fireworks show soon and a balloon ascent. Another section of the gardens will have acrobatic shows and tightrope acts, equestrian feats.”
“Oh, I cannot choose! Can we see them all?”
James’s mouth curved, and her heart twisted at the beautiful sensuality inherent in that smile.
“We shall see.”
They started their adventure along the Grand South Walk, the main thoroughfare lined with the promised fifteen thousand glass lanterns. The lights cast a magical glow, illuminating the path in a kaleidoscope of colors that bathed the surrounding foliage and the faces of the visitors in a warm, ethereal light. The walkway was bustling, filled with people of all ages, the air alive with the sound of music, laughter, and the distant calls of vendors selling fruits.
They paused at Lovers’ Walk—a more secluded pathway known for its romantic ambiance. That pathway was scandalously lined with smaller, more intimately placed lamps that created a soft, inviting glow. Here, couples walked hand-in-hand, stealing quiet moments away from the larger crowds.
Next, they explored a couple of the pavilions that offered a picturesque view of the gardens and a brief respite from the bustling main paths. Each pavilion had its own unique design, some adorned with intricate woodwork, others with floral decorations that complemented the natural beauty of the gardens. James then guided Elizabeth toward the Dark Walk, a path known for its mysterious, shadowy atmosphere, and where people clearly indulged in wanton debauchery. Elizabeth paused, astonished, peering at a couple leaning against a tall elm tree, kissing each other.
“Are you also seeing this?”
“Yes,” James said, his tone darkly amused. “Are you seeing everything?”
“They are kissing.”
“They are doing more. One of his hands is under her gown. Given how her hips are arching … and his arm moving, he is fucking her with his fingers.”
She gasped.
“Is that a blush, Elizabeth?” James drawled. “It is a bit too dark to clearly tell.”
Her cheeks heated under his provocative regard. It felt … indecent.
She sniffed, and continued walking, his low, amused laugh following her. They continued their exploration, heading toward the Chinese Temples next. These structures were beautifully crafted, with ornate, pagoda-like designs and delicate, hand-painted decorations that reflected theton’sfascination with Oriental décor.
“James, how beautiful!”
