Page 6 of Seducing an Earl under the Mistletoe
“The river flowing below,” he replied, gazing into the distance. “I hear the tranquil melody that soothes one’s soul. I see the freedom and man’s closeness to nature, which can be found only in the countryside, the opposite of confined spaces and crowded streets of the city.”
She smiled back at him when their eyes met again. White snowflakes adorned her hair and shoulders like delicate pearls, and the subtle blush on her cheeks heightened her beauty in the ethereal winter light. Her smile was warm and genuine, melting the coldness of the winter day. Arthur couldn’t help but be captivated by her, the radiance of her presence amplifying the already stunning scenery around them.
“That was very poetic,” she admitted. “You should think about becoming a writer.”
“Oh, absolutely not,” he shook his head quickly as they continued to walk across the bridge slowly.
“Why not?” she wondered. “I would love to read whatever you write.”
“You love to read?” he asked, intrigued.
“Most certainly,” she confessed without any hesitation. “I love classic romantic tales and poetry.” She continued to share a few of her favorites, and he watched her face light up with enthusiasm as she spoke. “It is somewhat of a guilty pleasure of mine,” she chuckled, ending her little monologue.
“Oh, we all have one of those,” he said, waving his hand dismissively.
“Even you?” she teased. “I cannot imagine someone like you indulging in anything mischievous. You seem too nice.”
Arthur had to admit that he didn’t like that. He didn’t want her to think that he wastoo nice.What man wanted a woman to think so of him?
“Well…” he started, wondering if it was a good idea to admit this, but he knew he had to say something, “if you must know, my guilty pleasures are the decadent, fantastical romances penned by Carver Frost.”
“Carver Frost?” Catherine echoed the name, halting immediately. Startled for a reason Arthur could not explain, Catherina took a step back, gasping loudly as her foot plunged through a rotten plank, leaving her stuck and half-submerged in the chilly stream below. Panic and embarrassment washed over her as she struggled to free herself.
“Are you all right, Catherine?” Arthur exclaimed, rushing to her aid, his concern evident in his eyes.
“I-I’m…I’m all right, just a bit stuck,” she stammered, attempting to free her foot from the broken gap.
With a strong and steady grip, Arthur helped lift her out of the water, her face flushed with a mixture of cold and embarrassment. Their eyes met, and they shared nervous laughter filled the air, breaking the tension of the unexpected incident.
As Arthur steadied Catherine on the bridge, their hands met in a clumsy but tender embrace, a spark of connection igniting between them. Her touch sent a rush of warmth through him, and he could feel the heartbeat of the moment, as if the universe had conspired to bring them closer.
He didn’t know why, but his body, his mind, they refused to release her from his grip. He could see her cheeks flushing, not just from the cold, but from the same sensation that was making his own heart race like a horse at Ascot’s.
As Arthur helped Catherine to safety, his concern for her well-being evident, he couldn’t help but notice a sense of unease in her reaction to his earlier confession about enjoying Carver Frost’s novels. The curiosity lingered in the back of his mind, but for the moment, he focused on ensuring she was safe and comfortable.
“I think it would be best if we head back and get you warmed up,” Arthur suggested, his tone caring and considerate.
Catherine, regaining her composure, nodded appreciatively. “Yes, that sounds like a good plan. And this will be such a fun story to share with Marcus and Virginie.”
He couldn’t help but grin at her words. She was unlike any other city girl he had ever met, and her outlook on life was utterly refreshing. Usually, ladies would be aghast at the fact that they had soiled their gown, while she had not mentioned that once.
Moreover, she was in a good mood in a situation that required great effort of her to remain so, which he appreciated more than anything. More and more, he was drawn to this lovely, unusual lady, and the desire to know more about her gripped him fervently.
***
After they returned home, the following two hours were spent by the fireplace of the Winters’ residence, and shortly after, Arthur waved them goodbye, returning to his own home. Upon returning, Arthur was unexpectedly intercepted by his mother, who wore a welcoming smile and an air of sophistication as always.
“Ah, darling! You are just in time!” she exclaimed, walking over to him and giving him a peck on the cheek. “I am hosting a small gathering of friends for tea, and it would be so marvelous if you could join us!’ He could immediately see that glint of matchmaking intentions in her eyes.
Arthur was well aware of the entire situation, so he politely declined the invitation. “While I would love to join you all, Mother, I’m afraid that the horseback riding from this afternoon has made me utterly exhausted. My only wish now is to retire to my study and perhaps go over an important business matter I have left for later today.”
His mother, however, persisted, the twinkle in her eyes revealing her ulterior motive. “Oh, Arthur, can’t that wait? Your betrothed might arrive in Brighton sooner than you think. It would be a wonderful opportunity for you two to spend time together and get to know each other better.”
“She is not my betrothed yet, Mother,” Arthur reminded her, although it was something his mother paid little heed to. In her mind, the engagement was already arranged between the two families, although no official announcement had been made yet.
He was also in no mood to delve into this discussion right now. He gently squeezed her hand. “I assure you, Mother, there will be plenty of time to acquaint myself with the lady when the time is right. But for now, this business endeavor requires my undivided attention,” he replied, trying to convey his utter determination.
His mother, although slightly disappointed, relented, knowing her son well enough to understand when he was firm in his decisions. “Very well, Arthur. I shall inform our guests. But do keep in mind the importance of these social gatherings and the opportunities they present.”
