“Amelia, I did ask you to meet me outside. I take full responsibility for that.”
“I’m so sorry that I was detained. Did it anger you?”
“No, of course not. I’m sure you had a good reason for…that is…”
“Daniel, do get on with it,” she barked. Then, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. It’s
just that I’ve missed you so much.”
Though they had shared intimacies of the body, no real feeling had ever existed between them. Still, Daniel had no wish to hurt her. He could let her stay. He could sleep with her, but he lacked the desire to do so. It was a new feeling, something he had never imagined. He almost felt he was being unfaithful. But why? He had shared a few passionate kisses and one dance with a beautiful young woman. That was all.
“Amelia. I’m sorry to tell you this, but I wish to end our liaison.”
“What?” She jerked away from him.
“You heard me. I wish for you to leave my bedchamber. I don’t anticipate requiring your company in the future.”
“Daniel, if it’s something I’ve done…”
”No, no. It’s nothing you’ve done. It’s my fault. I’m the one who has changed. I no longer wish to have you in my bed.”
“After all we’ve shared, you would simply cast me aside?”
“You know we were never faithful to each other. Why are you reacting this way?”
“Perhaps I have been faithful to you. Have you considered that possibility?”
“Really, Amelia. I was gone for a year. I know your appetites.”
“Of all the… How can you insult me that way?”
Daniel began to lose patience. “Insult you? For God’s sake, this is probably the most we’ve spoken to each other since we met. We never had any relationship other than in bed, and it is not my wish for that relationship to continue.”
Amelia got out of bed, strode slowly across the chamber to the leather armchair where her garments lay, and began to dress. “You know, tomorrow night when you’re lonely, don’t bother coming to me. I will likely find a gentleman who appreciates what I have to offer. I already have my eye on someone. Perhaps you know him. Lord Jameson? He is quite devastatingly handsome, and I do believe he will be receptive.”
Lily’s brother. Lily’s brother who was obviously taken with the blond woman who had monopolized him all evening. Clearly Amelia was bluffing, trying to hurt him. Daniel didn’t blame her for the attempt.
“By all means. I hope you do find someone. I wish you nothing but happiness, Amelia. However, I think it might be best if you left Laurel Ridge on the morrow.”
“You can’t be serious! You invited me here, Daniel!”
She was right of course. He had invited her, and she had done nothing to merit being sent away. “I spoke in haste. Of course you don’t have to leave. Please make yourself welcome, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay.”
“Fine.” She walked to the door, her dress unbuttoned in the back.
“Wait, I’ll fasten you,” Daniel said.
“Please, don’t bother. I’ll go straight to my chamber.” She slammed the door.
Daniel turned over, burying his face into his pillow, clenching his hands into fists. His unsated erection throbbed. He imagined a pair of soft white hands caressing it, ruby lips enfolding it.
“Lily,” he groaned aloud. “Lily.”
Chapter 3
Lily woke early the next morning. She smiled to herself, remembering the ball. She had enjoyed it, to her surprise. Lord Victor had been charming company, although she didn’t wish to encourage him. Somehow, she had to get him interested in Alexandra.
And the duke. His kiss and his dance edged their way into Lily’s mind more often than she desired. Consciously, she banished them.