Sealed with a Yuletide Kiss by Sophie Barnes

Author:Sophie Barnes
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sophie Barnes

She wasn’t wrong, James mused, adjusting himself to the idea of finally having Evangeline – Evie – pressed up against him for even the briefest instant. The sensation was nothing short of exquisite and, devil that he was, entirely of his own making. Not that he was sorry. He’d not regret allowing himself this moment with her – a moment he’d dreamt of since he’d become aware of the deeper feelings he harbored.

Such emotions had wrought havoc on his twenty–year–old mind and body when she’d had her coming out three years ago. They’d also terrified the hell out of him, because he knew what they would lead to if he wasn’t careful.

As was often the case with young ladies, Evie’s life had been sheltered until that age. The only unmarried man she’d known besides her relations had been him. And the last thing he’d wanted was to be the comfortable choice for her. Indeed, it would have killed him if they had married and he’d learned she didn’t yearn for him as much as he yearned for her.

So he’d done the sensible thing and retreated, allowed her the space she needed to entertain suitors while doing his best to refrain from murdering some of the fops he’d watched her dance with.

But she’d never shown any hint of interest in forming a deeper attachment with them and now… Well, James had realized two nights ago while polishing off an excellent bottle of brandy that it was time for him to stop being an ass about all of this. If he wanted Evie for himself, the best way to accomplish that was to let her know he was interested.

Right.

“It’s an excellent place to hide.” He lifted the blanket he’d placed across his lap and draped it over hers as well, then nudged the hot brick closer to her with the toe of his boot. “I thought of it this afternoon when I returned from my ride and saw the head groomsman covering the carriage.”

James had drawn the man into conversation, and when he’d let it slip that Evie had tasked him with putting together the perfect hideout, a plan had taken shape. Eager to move ahead, he reached inside his jacket pocket and pulled out a couple of treats he’d wrapped in a handkerchief. “Would you care for some shortbread, Evie? If I’m not mistaken it’s still your favorite.”

She swallowed audibly and though it was dark, his eyes had adjusted enough to discern her figure – a dark silhouette no more than a foot away.

“Yes. Thank you.”

Holding out his hand, he offered the biscuits and after a bit of fumbling, she managed to pick one up. A crisp crunch followed and then a satisfied sigh of pleasure that instantly stirred his blood. Forcing down a groan, he took a bite of his own biscuit and prayed she’d respond to him one day with equal ardor.

“I wanted to bring hot cocoa as well but decided against it,” he told her. “Seemed a bit

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