Bequeathed by Andie James

Author:Andie James [James, Andie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: D&G Books
Published: 2024-03-22T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 18

West dropped his head into his hands after Priscilla shut the door behind her. How many times in the last few weeks had he needed to remind himself that what was between them wasn’t real? It would be nothing but foolishness to lose his mind, lean into his desire for her, and kiss her senseless. If Priscilla had leaned in any further, he wouldn’t have been able to restrain himself.

Every time they had danced while out together in last weeks, West had to fight his own instincts—compelling his arms to stay braced and in form, keeping her at a respectable distance rather than pulling her body close to his.

Though not the purpose of the trip, he was eager to leave town for a while. Some distance from Priscilla would help him clear his mind. The fake relationship was still serving its purpose, but he couldn’t allow himself to be too distracted by the woman who was supposed to be keeping him from other distractions.

Twisting his head around, West stretched out his neck. Priscilla’s fingers were like magic and had worked wonders at easing the tension that seemed to keep his shoulders permanently hiked towards his ears these days. Now looser, he should take advantage of his momentary physical reprieve and work off some of his agitation in the ring.

While not a serious boxer, or sportsman in general for that matter, he did enjoy working his body with another while in town. At home in the country, he could take long, invigorating rides on his loyal horse, Shakespeare. He loved how alive he felt with the wind whipping past him when he let his mount lose to run as fast as he pleased. But here in the city, such riding was not possible, and he found boxing to be the best alternative when he needed a way to quiet his mind.

Gathering together his papers and placing all the work into neat, even piles—West called out for Morton. The butler quickly arranged a carriage and Roberts brought down his coat and a clean shirt to change into once he was through at Gentleman Jackson’s.

West was tying up his hands by the ring a half hour later when he heard his name. Lifting his head up, he saw Viscount Hastings smiling and walking his direction.

“Hastings,” he said in greeting with a quick nod.

“None of that,” the viscount said with a laugh as he clapped a hand firmly on West’s shoulder, causing it to drop slightly at the impact from the taller man. “You must call me Sidney. My wife couldn’t stop singing your praises after dinner at the Weston’s a few weeks ago, and I know Reid is happy to have you added to our ranks. Whigs are few and far between in Lords, so we must consider one another friends based on the evidence before us.”

West couldn’t help but return the man’s contagious grin as he shook his proffered hand. “I’m happy for any new friend. Are you up for a spar? I could use an outlet right about now.

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