“So I want to do this right, do you understand?”
“Yes, I understand.”
“Good. Now, when would you like to go riding today?”
Rose sighed. “Whenever you would like. Just fetch me when you’re ready. Would you care to join me for breakfast?”
“Thank you, but I’ve had enough. I will see you later.”
“Yes. Later.”
* * * *
Iris woke up in David’s arms, feeling, for the first time, secure. Twenty years ago, when he had loved her, it had been wonderful. An escape. But now, Longarry was gone, and he would never find out. She was in no danger. Had she ever felt so safe before in her entire life? No. Never.
He had loved her tenderly, and she had been amazed at how her body had responded. Feelings she thought long dead had resurfaced, sending her into an ecstasy that she had nearly forgotten. She smiled and leaned over and kissed David’s lips. His eyes fluttered open.
“Good morning, my Iris.”
“Good morning, David.”
He cuddled her close. “I didn’t realize how much I missed making love to you.”
“You haven’t forgotten any of the tricks.” She warmed at her own words, but why stand on ceremony now? They were in bed together, for heaven’s sake.
“I have a few more up my sleeve, you know.” He lowered his head and nipped her breast.
“Do you?”
“Yes, my love. I shall show you.” He pulled her on top of him and slid her body down onto his erection. “Now, my Iris, you will ride with me this morning.”
When they had both sated their hunger and collapsed in exhaustion, David rubbed her back soothingly.
“Iris,” he said.
“Yes?”
“I don’t want to lose you again.”
“You won’t.”
“Won’t I?”
“Of course not. Neither one of us is bound. We can continue our affair for as long as we like.”
“You want an affair with me?”
“Well…yes.” Her nerves jumped. What if he didn’t? “Don’t you?”
“No,” he said flatly.
Iris’s heart sank. He meant to leave her after this weekend. “All right, David. Forgive me. I just thought—”
“I want to marry you.”
Iris gasped. “You…what?”
“You heard me. I love you, Iris. Marry me. Be my countess.”