Once a Wallflower, At Last His Love (Scandalous Seasons #6)(105)

“You said there were to be no more lies.”

She shoved away from him, running a gaze over his face. “And there were none.”

He drew in a breath and collapsed back in his seat. “You believe this is about my being displeased by your writing?”

A tear slid down her cheek. “It isn’t?” She brushed it away.

He scrubbed his hands over his face. “I swear you’re likely the most infuriating woman in all the kingdom.” His hands fell to his side. The dark glower was back in place. “Do you truly believe I would make you stop writing?”

“No.” She shook her head. “No, I didn’t believe that.”

He appeared flummoxed. “Then why?”

“I believe any gentleman who promises me the sun, moon, and stars would allow me to write, and I’d not force that upon you. I know if I wanted to continue writing as Mr. Michaelmas you would let me because that is the kind of gentleman you are and—”

“Hermione?”

“Yes, Sebastian?”

“Shut up.” He also happened to be that manner of gentleman. He kissed her. Hard. The manner of kiss that curled her toes and warmed her belly. She twined her arms about his neck, having missed the feel of him, having missed all of him. He trailed kisses down the corner of her mouth, lower. “You are not to stop writing.” He nipped the sensitive flesh of her neck. “Is that clear, love?”

Her head fell back of its own volition and a breathless moan escaped her. “Quite clear.”

“Good.” He ceased his tender ministrations so abruptly she blinked in confusion. “Here.” He slapped something hard and heavy into her hand.

She looked at the wrapped gift.

“Open it,” he commanded.

Hermione alternated her stare between Sebastian and the gift and then unfastened the ribbon. Her heart thudded to a halt. She trailed her finger over the gold lettering.

Her Charming Duke

By Mr. Michael Michaelmas

“I don’t understand,” she whispered.

He touched a hand to her cheek and with the pad of his thumb, brushed away a teardrop. Then another. And another. “It is for you, Hermione. I told you I wanted all of you. I want the aggravating parts, the loyal parts; I want your smile and laugh. I want Mr. Michaelmas.”

Hermione touched her nose to his. “Do you know what, Sebastian?”

He searched her face. “What is that?”

“I shall leave the world to its dark, brooding, and nefarious dukes.” She framed his face between her hands. Their breath mingled as one. “I want nothing more than my charming duke.”

The End