To Dare a Rogue - Lana Williams (novels for beginners TXT) 📗

for the cast-iron columns and glass roof as well as the vaulted ceiling,” the steward said as he pointed out the features. “As you can see, the large windows are left open when the weather permits. The glass roof is one of the few in all of England. There are several walkways through the conservatory, all of which provide a lovely view. If you have the inclination, you are also welcome to tour the gardens outside. It’s a beautiful day for it.” He gestured toward the far end of the conservatory where three sets of doors stood open to the garden.

The steward gave more details than they could have asked for, explaining the duke's vision for the conservatory.

“One of the highlights is the curved stream with goldfish and mossy banks. Several small bridges cross the stream. We have over three thousand varieties of plants and flowers inside.” Mr. Ruxton led them to where the path divided. “In general, the right side of the conservatory resembles an English forest while the left side resembles a jungle with the stream in the middle. I will leave you to explore on your own and return later to answer any questions you might have. Enjoy your visit.” He bowed and left them.

James glanced at Charlotte. “Which path would you like to take first?”

She looked about with wonder, her gaze lingering on the abundance of plants and trees that created a canopy overhead. Then her gaze met his, their depths sparkling with an excitement which increased his own. “You choose.”

“But it's your adventure.”

“No,” she said with a smile. “It's our adventure. Then she tightened her hold on his arm. “Lead the way.”

With a lightness in his heart that he hadn't felt in a long time, he took the path on the far right.

They wandered along with the maid following, pausing often to look around, taking turns at pointing out dahlias, nerines, lilies, and fuschia not to mention numerous roses. The variety was staggering. James was pleased the duke and duchess allowed a few visitors as it seemed a shame to keep all this for just one family.

“I hope in the future they open this to the public for everyone to enjoy,” Charlotte said.

James smiled. “I was thinking the same.” He was surprised at how often they agreed on various topics.

Nearly an hour had passed when they returned to where the paths converged to select another path. As far as he could tell, they had the entire place to themselves.

“If you don't mind, my lady,” the maid said, “I will wait here.” She pointed toward a bench nestled beneath a flowering tree.

“Of course.” Charlotte nodded. “We shall return soon.”

James escorted her down another walkway, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. “The duke seems to have collected every type of tree that grows in England and beyond.”

“Amazing.”

While James appreciated the conservatory, viewing it with Charlotte made it far more special. Her enthusiasm for all they saw added to his own. Moments such as this made him feel unbroken. As if he could hope for a future after all—one where he might have a wife and a family.

He paused to face her. “Thank you.”

“For what?” she asked, her gaze holding his.

“For making this possible.”

Her sweet smile gave him pause. “You helped make it so as well.”

“I’m not the one who was able to request assistance from the Earl of Aberland. I owe you our wager.”

“Well, if you hadn’t accompanied me, I wouldn’t be here.” Her gaze dropped to his lips, lighting a spark of desire deep inside him.

The urge to kiss her flooded him. Never mind that he’d told himself in the dark of the night that he needed to keep his distance. He blamed his lack of will on the heady fragrance in the air as he leaned close, her lips but a breath away.

Anticipation filled him when she remained where she was rather than drawing back. That was as much of an invitation as he needed. He pressed his lips to hers, then repeated the gentle assault, savoring each taste of her. At last, he deepened the kiss, hoping she would allow him entrance.

She shifted closer and did exactly as he wished, her hands resting on his chest. He swept his tongue along hers, the sharpness of his desire shocking. Something about this woman called to him, warming the cold places deep within him. When her arms wrapped around him and held tight, his soul calmed.

He told himself to ease back, to take this slow. But need took over, and he crushed her against his length. Did she realize how much he desired her? He shifted to kiss the edge of her jaw, the softness of her neck. Now that he’d started, he feared he couldn’t stop. His pulse thundered as time slowed.

“James?” she whispered.

“Yes?” He forced himself to draw back to look at her. Why couldn’t he seem to remember that his attraction to her couldn’t lead anywhere?

Yet as he gazed into her passion-filled eyes, he wished that weren’t true. He wished he’d come home from the war happy and whole, proud of what had been accomplished, and resolved to what he’d witnessed.

But he hadn’t. Encouraging her to think a future was possible wasn’t fair.

Before she could do or say something that might change his mind, he released her.

“Charlotte,” he began, hoping she would understand. “You deserve someone special. Someone who will give you the happy life you deserve.”

The passion in her eyes dimmed. She took a step back, her lashes hiding her eyes. “But not you?”

“I am not who you think I am.” How could he possibly explain? He couldn’t share the horrible things he’d witnessed, and his memories hadn't faded. In fact, they seemed stronger than ever, especially in the middle of the night. A peaceful afternoon with her at his side didn’t change the truth.

“I believe I’m coming to know you well.” Those long lashes lifted, and her gaze met his. “And I very much respect and admire the man you are.”

He shook his