A Pledge of Passion (The Rules of Engagement #2)(25)

He backed her slowly up against the tree, pressing his body into hers, suddenly aware that there was no obstacle of hoops between them, only thin layers of linen and muslin. Her eyes widened and breath hitched as he slid his thigh between hers. He kissed and licked up the slender column of her throat and then sought the hollow behind her ear.

"Oh, Nick," she gasped. "What are you doing to me?"

"Certainly not what I wish to do. Where are your bloody hoops?"

"I never wear them while out walking," she replied breathlessly.

He licked the shell of her ear and nibbled her lobe. "My God. You do tempt a man to sin, Mariah."

"And I have no will to stop you," she murmured, throwing back her head to give him better access. "I can't understand how a simple kiss can contain so much power."

"I never would have imagined it either, had I not experienced it. I almost believe I've been enchanted by a wood sprite," he replied with a twitch of his mouth.

They were thus engaged and utterly caught up in the pleasures of the moment when Marcus came upon them, sounding a loud cough. Nick and Mariah instantly separated. Mariah lowered her lashes and smoothed her skirts. Both of them were panting with frustrated lust. Nick had never before desired to strangle a man with his bare hands until that moment. He stepped toward Marcus, hoping to shield Mariah and give her a moment to compose herself.

"So the sluggard is out of his bed at last."

"Yes, but it was far from my preference. Duty alone dragged me from it." Marcus's gaze raked lazily over first Nick and then Mariah. "But now I perceive we all would have been better . . . satisfied . . . had I remained abed," Marcus replied with a smirk.

"I shall come and watch you play later, Mr. Needham," Mariah murmured, her cheeks tinged bright pink. "You must practice for the match, and I must return."

"You bloody jackass!" Nick hissed under his breath as a mortified Mariah scurried away. "Did you really have to do that?"

"I'm afraid so." Marcus chuckled. "You may be a slow starter, but I credit you with making damned short work of it. She descended the stairs looking quite tumbled last night, and now I nearly catch you in flagrante delicto. Funny, I've never known you to indulge in dalliances before."

"Bloody hell, Marcus, it's not like that. I would never—"

Marcus arched a brow. "Never?"

Nick groaned. It was obvious his best friend wasn't about to let it go. "It was innocent. I merely kissed her."

"There are many kinds of kisses," Marcus remarked with a lascivious leer. "I wonder what kind you shared?"

"We're done discussing it," Nick snapped.

"Pity. We were just getting to the good part. As to the rest, should I seek out a new secretary?"

"Why would you ask that?"

"Because it appears you have set your sights on matrimony."

"I'm not in a position to offer for her, Marcus."

"What did I say before about the glass of wine?" Marcus clapped a hand on his shoulder. "You are the best of men and a true friend, Nick. Rest assured that I shall do my utmost to help you achieve your desire." Marcus considered him for a thoughtful moment. "I wonder, would you be averse to a post in Turin?" Marcus asked.

"Turin? You mean with Rochford?"

"Yes. He claims that Duke Charles Emmanuel is quite an Anglophile. He's become quite enamored of English country dancing and now Rochford has a mind to bring the great English sport of cricket to the Italians. Impress him with yours skills today, and I am certain he will find a place for you. I will certainly do all I can to encourage the idea."

"Very well," Nick replied. "Since both of our livelihoods depend on this afternoon's match, I suggest you begin by bowling for me."

***

Mariah left the cricket field with a hasty stride and cheeks aflame. She had left her room for a simple morning walk. How mortifying that it had ended by being caught in the middle of a torrid embrace. She couldn't help wondering what would have transpired had Lord Marcus not come upon them. Perhaps he'd saved her from herself? Every time Nick touched or kissed her, her desire only increased. Was this the same fiery passion that had brought Lydia and Lord Marcus back together? Appearances seemed to suggest it. Would he say anything to Lydia? She was dying to confide in someone, but she'd promised Nick not to reveal their relationship. Then again, she doubted Marcus would keep his lips sealed from his new bride.

She returned to her chamber to find her cousin waiting for her. "Mariah!" Lydia exclaimed "I have been looking all over for you."

Her pulse accelerated at the worry lines etching Lydia's face. "Is something wrong, Lyddie?"

"A coach and footman have arrived from Morehaven. Your mother bids you come home at once."

"Is it Papa?"

"Yes. The doctor says it's a lung fever. It began three days ago. He fears this may be the end."

"Poor Mama," Mariah said. "She is surely falling to pieces."

"Sally is already packing your things. Shall I come with you, dearest?"

"And leave your new husband?"

"Marcus will surely understand. Besides, he will be leaving soon anyway. I was planning to return to London with his mother until such time as he sends for me."