A Gentleman's Vow (Saints and Sinners 2)

“I would never do anything—” he began, but the duchess held up her hand.

“It was never you I worried about. I know your heart, Gideon Whitfield. I have known your feelings for Jessica existed for a long time. Jessica, however, can at times be impetuous and often acts without thinking of the consequences of her adventures.” She sighed. “All I am asking is that you continue to protect her to the best of your ability.”

“I always will,” he promised.

“Good. Now, you will find Jessica in the drawing room with Mrs. Warner. According to my husband’s wishes, you must be chaperoned at all times, and I apologize for that unnecessary obstacle in your courtship. My husband has always been overprotective of his youngest daughter, as you must already have seen,” she said. “Jessica will not tolerate his coddling for long. She can never bear to be cooped up inside. You have no idea of her unhappiness in London.”

“Some. Jessica does love the freedom to come and go. But…” Gideon wet his lips. “I must say it is a great relief to know you support the match and don’t wish to throw a flowerpot at me.”

“There’s still time.” The duchess smiled, and he realized she was only teasing him. “How could I think to harm you when Jessica has been floating about the place almost from the moment she saw you again? You make her so very happy, and that is all I want for her.”

“Thank you.”

The duchess gestured toward the door. “Now off you go. Do not be put off by my husband’s abrupt manner. He is ever slow to change.”

Gideon bowed. “I’ll do my best to convince the duke of the benefits as soon as I can.” He collected his bunch of flowers and strode off toward the drawing room.

Gideon stepped into the chamber—and his breath caught. My God, he was nearly betrothed to the most beautiful creature in existence. Not even Mrs. Warner’s scowling presence could dim his heart’s wild clatter.

Jessica wore a pretty blue gown, hair swept up into an elegant arrangement. But it was her smile of welcome that drew him across the room. “Good afternoon, Lady Jessica. Mrs. Warner.”

Jessica curtsied, and he bowed and then handed her the flowers.

“Mr. Whitfield. These are lovely.” When Jessica’s gaze lifted, the look in her eyes was most definitely lusty.

Chapter 19

Gideon caught Jessica’s hand in his. “I’m glad you like them.”

“They’re perfect, just like you,” Jessica whispered.

“Oh please, just kiss the girl before she swoons,” Rebecca grumbled.

“Swooning?” Gideon asked, taking in Jessica’s appearance. Her breathing seemed to be very quick and her cheeks were slowly turning pink.

Jessica leaned closer to him to whisper, “How does anyone live with this feeling?”

“Are you all right?” Gideon whispered.

“Never better,” she whispered back. “I just can’t forget last night.”

“Neither can I.”

Mrs. Warner plucked the flowers from Jessica’s hands. “I’ll have these put into a vase. Father is being ridiculous about this.”

“Thank you,” Jessica called when her sister strode out of the room. “That was very considerate of her to give us some privacy.”

“Yes, quite surprising really.” Jessica drew even closer but he frowned. “We’d better behave, though.”

“For now,” she agreed.

Gideon took Jessica’s elbow in his palm and steered her toward the window seat. “She makes a terrible chaperone. Your father will not be pleased when he finds out she left us.”

“Oh, I think she’s perfect. Besides, she knows you love me.”

“Indeed.” He cupped Jessica’s face. “More than I ever thought I could love anyone. But I’ve taken more risks with your reputation than I ever intended.”

“No more than I have done myself. I asked you to kiss me, and I want more,” she whispered. She inched closer. “I’ve always hated waiting to see you. You should have come to London with us.”