Page 44 of Regency in Color
“Enjoy,” Lottie said and walked away.
When Thomas entered, Mary was drinking from the goblet. It was a sweet wine that she was sure Vivian had something to do with.
“What is this?” Thomas asked looking toward the corridor. “Where is everyone?”
“They’ve eaten. Moira and Lottie did this for us. I believe everyone else in the household has been warned to stay away.”
His lips curved. “Ah.”
Mary’s eyes widened. “You told them didn’t you?”
“I admitted to it when Harold confessed to spying us kissing. I asked them not to say anything to you until you were ready to share. I supposed they gave up.”
After holding the chair for her to sit, he then sat across the table from her and extended his hand, which she accepted. “I wish to marry you soon, Mary. I hope you will not make me wait long.”
Warmth filled her and she lost all interest in the meal. However, when Thomas began to eat with gusto, she did as well. They didn’t have a conversation, it was more about companionship and time alone. With so many about in the house, it was rare to steal a moment or two by themselves.
“Tell me,” Thomas began. “When would you like to speak with my parents?”
Despite his assurances, Mary was nervous. “Perhaps tomorrow?”
He must have seen her worry because he squeezed her hand. “That I care for you is enough for them to as well.”
Only once had she been in a relationship. The courtship had abruptly ended when the man’s mother caught sight of her. Despite reassuring her, it had nothing to do with his mother, the man in question had ended things between them immediately thereafter.
Thomas reached for her hand. “Thank you, Mary.”
“For?”
“Accepting me.”
How she wanted to hold him and be kissed by him in that moment.
Seeming to read her mind, he stood and rounded the table. “Would you like to walk outside a bit. I ate too much.” He lifted her shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders.
The chilly air brushing over her face, helped dispel the heat that infused her face at the thought of time alone with Thomas.
Just as they rounded the corner into the walled garden, Thomas pulled her into his arms, his mouth taking hers. Since his jaw healed, Mary discovered kissing him was so much more delightful. His lips pressed against her, tongue probing until she parted her lips and allowed him access. Mary held on to his shoulders, then wrapped her arms around his neck and lifted to her toes. If only time would remain still, she’d be forever grateful.
“I can’t wait to marry you,” Thomas murmured, trailing kisses down the side of her jawline to her throat. “I want you so much.”
It would be almost impossible for them to wait until their wedding night. Mary considered how both Vivian and Clara had married without fanfare. Perhaps it was to become a tradition, because as much as she wanted to have a wedding, what she really wished for was to be Thomas’ wife.
Her breathing hitched when his tongue circled at the base of her neck. The man definitely knew how to take prohibitions away. “Oh Thomas,” Mary murmured, pulling him closer. “We mustn’t.”
Unable to move away, she feebly attempted to push him, but then she pulled his face to hers taking his mouth again. His hands slid down her back cupping her bottom and pulling her against the hardness of his sex. Instinctively she knew if they didn’t stop then, she’d drag him to her bedroom.
Sounds of the night emerged past their heavy breathing. In the distance owls sang their sad songs, while horses neighed just before ending their vigil. Mary broke the kiss and pressed her forehead to his chin. “We should go inside.”
“There is something I must ask you,” Thomas said. “I’ve taken it for granted but have yet to do.”
Mary frowned. “What is it?”
“Will you marry me,” Thomas lowered to one knee. “I love you Mary Asher, and nothing would make me happier than if you accept me as your husband.”
Her breath caught. Although he’d mentioned wishing to marry her, he’d not formally proposed.
“Yes. Of course, I will marry you,” Mary exclaimed with half a cry. “I hate that I’m about to cry.”
