Master of Her Heart: A Time-Twisted Tale of North and South by Julia Daniels

Author:Julia Daniels
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Tags: North & South, Time Travel, Alternate Universe - Victorian
ISBN: 9780996485418
Publisher: Heartstrings Publishing
Published: 2015-07-08T04:00:00+00:00

Good God, what is she doing to me? John’s body was enflamed, in a room full of people and his mother. Bad enough she looked edible in her dress that evening and that she had spoken to his fellow mill masters in such complimentary terms about him, and that once again, she’d formulated logical and reasonable arguments for both sides of the strike. He was so aroused, he wanted to lift her from her chair and carry her to his bedroom and make love to her until neither of them could walk away.

On John’s other side, Watson yammered on about the state of the economy. Margaret moved her foot away but then wrapped it warmly around the back of his foot. John was tempted to take off his shoe, but it would be too awkward to get it back on in a few minutes when the ladies retired to the drawing room.

“I would like to speak with you about something personal, Thornton,” Watson told him quietly. “It’s about your sister.”

John understood what the man would be asking. At the very least, Watson would ask to court Fanny, but John was pretty convinced it was marriage the man would be seeking. Fanny seemed amiable to the idea, too, but he’d have to visit with her before talking with Watson.

“Perhaps Sunday, after services?” John suggested. “You would be welcome to join us for lunch.”

“Yes, that would be agreeable. Most agreeable.” Watson nodded, chewing aggressively on his dinner. “I imagine you are aware of what I will speak with you about.”

John turned toward Margaret as her foot slipped away from him. She was engaged in conversation with Mr. Bell. Perhaps she hadn’t even realized she’d moved away from him, but he had noticed, and he suddenly felt…abandoned.

“Thornton?” Watson asked. “Did you hear what I said?”

John turned back to the older man without catching Margaret’s attention. Watson had crumbs in his beard. Fanny could surely do better, find someone younger, at least. Charlie Morris’ name popped into John’s head.

“Yes, Watson, I have a good idea what you wish to speak about.” John set his napkin next to his plate and leaned back against his chair. “I will welcome the conversation on Sunday.”

It was time for the gender split. Mrs. Thornton stood. “Ladies, shall we give the men an opportunity to discuss business?”

All of the women stood at once, causing the gentlemen to follow suit until the ladies were out of the room. John hesitated then slowly stood, but he used the table to cover his still-present physical reaction to Margaret’s behavior. She flashed him a knowing, secretive smile before she walked behind his chair to leave the room.

“I suppose you’ve already laid claim to her?” Slickson asked John the minute the door closed behind the ladies.

“I suppose so, yes.” John allowed himself to grin. A stupid grin, probably. He was besotted, pure and simple. But she was the one he’d been looking for all his life.

“Well, damn.” Slickson answered. “You are one lucky bastard. I haven’t heard a man speak as fluently as she did tonight.

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