Rose in Bloom (Sex and the Season #2)(61)

Cameron stood up and followed Lady Myerson to the table, seated her, and then himself. A footman placed a steaming bowl of carrot soup before him. The meal was delicious, and Cameron enjoyed Lady Myerson’s company. She was interested in his work, and was not at all surprised or bothered by the fact that he was self-taught. He told her of his family, and she told him a bit about hers. She had been a commoner before she married Myerson, so the two of them shared similar philosophies about life. After dessert, when the footman had cleared the table, Lady Myerson poured two glasses of port and bade Cameron to join her on a cozy loveseat. As the dinner conversation had been free of innuendo, he did so, thinking that her interest in him was solely as a composer. It became apparent, however, that he was mistaken.

“Mr. Price,” Lady Myerson began, “you probably know that I have made several generous contributions to Zachary’s fledgling theatre.”

“As I’ve only been with the theatre for little more than a week, my lady, I’m afraid I’m not aware of all of our benefactors. However, I personally thank you for your support. I hope you won’t find it misplaced.”

“Oh, surely not. If anyone can make a go of it, Zachary can. Of that I am certain. In the meantime, however, I might be willing to make another gift.”

“Your generosity is very much appreciated.”

“Just how much do you appreciate my generosity, Mr. Price?”

“My lady?”

“Cecilia, please.”

“If you wish.” Cameron’s throat constricted. He had an urge to loosen his cravat, but he sat stiffly. What to do with his hands?

“Do you know where Myerson is this evening?”

“Why would I know that?”

“He’s with his mistress,” Lady Myerson said. “He sees her several times a week. I’m afraid he doesn’t see to my needs as he should.”

“I’m…sorry, my lady.”

“I find you very attractive, Mr. Price.” She ran her fingers lightly over his hand. “I think we could get along very well together.”

“You’re not suggesting…”

“No, I’m not suggesting. I’m asking. I’d like you to take me to bed.”

Cameron jerked backward. He hadn’t expected her to be so blunt.

“Do you find me attractive, Mr. Price?”

“Well, yes. Of course I do, but—”

“Surely you’re not so naive as to think I invited you here merely for dinner?”

“I was under the impression that I would be dining with you and your husband,” Cameron said. “But when I found him absent, I had a pretty good idea what you were after.”

“Good. Then let’s get to it.” She began to loosen his cravat.”

“However,” Cameron continued, “I make it a point never to sleep with married women.”

“I see.” She traced his jawline. “How about two married women then? My friend the Viscountess of Homington indicated that she might be interested in joining us this evening.”

His cock tightened. Her sexy mouth beckoned to him, and two women at once? He’d never imagined that. He was still a farm boy at heart. The idea aroused him. He cleared his throat, willing his body not to betray head and his heart. “I don’t sleep with married women period, my lady, whether one or ten at a time.”

“I could win you over, I think.”

“I doubt it. I view marriage as sacred. And I have no desire to be pummeled by a jealous husband.”

“Good Lord. Myerson doesn’t care what I do, as long as I’m discreet.”

“As tempting as your offer is, my lady, I’m afraid I must decline.”

Lady Myerson took his hand in her own and led it to her breast. She wasn’t wearing a corset, and her taut nipple brushed against his fingers. “I can see you will take some convincing.”

“Your charms are exquisite indeed.” Cameron drew his hand away. “However, I’m afraid I’ll not be sampling them tonight.”

“You are devilishly handsome, Mr. Price,” Lady Myerson said. She began unbuttoning his shirt. “I bet you’re an animal in bed, and I bet you’re hung like—”

Cameron removed her hand before she could finish her thought. If she only knew! But she never would. “I’m sorry.”

“Goodness, what on earth is wrong with you? Don’t tell me you like men?”

He laughed. “No. I assure you that is not the case.”

“Then come now, I won’t bite.” She giggled. “ Well, I will, but you’ll like it.”

“I have every confidence that I would enjoy myself immensely in your bed,” he said. “I’m flattered that you desire me. However…” He cleared his throat.

“However, what?” She leaned into him. “You like my mouth, don’t you? I’ve seen you staring.”

“As I said, I am aware of your charms.”

“Then”—she brushed her lips over his—“taste me.”

He ran his tongue over her sensual upper lip, gently sucked on it. As he readied to plunge into her delicious mouth, Rose’s pink lips flashed into his mind. He backed away. “I’m sorry. You are beautiful, but I can’t.”