Page 32 of So Long, My Scoundrel

"A penny for your thoughts, my love," James said, breaking the companionable silence.

She sighed, tipping her head up to gaze at him. "I was thinking about how grateful I am for you, for us."

James's expression softened, and he pulled her into his arms. "My darling wife," he said, his lipsmere inches from hers. "I count my blessings with every heartbeat."

Their lips met in a searing kiss as their arms came around one another, years of passion and devotion pouring into the embrace. Her fingers tangled in His dark hair as she pressed herself closer, desperate to eliminate any space between them. In a touch of their lips, they were lost in their own private paradise.

As they parted, breathless, Selina rested her forehead against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart. The night air had cooled, and she shivered slightly in her thin gown.

James, ever attentive, noticed immediately. "Are you cold, my love?" he asked, concern lacing his voice.

Selina smiled up at him, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Perhaps a little. Though I can think of a way you might warm me up, Lord Blackwood."

A low chuckle rumbled through James's chest. "My, my, Lady Blackwood. How scandalous you have become." He pulled her closer, his hands tracing tantalizing patterns along her back. "What would the ton say if they could hear you now?"

"I refuse to be bothered by gossips," Selinamurmured, her lips brushing against his jaw. "I care only for your opinion."

“In that case.” James grinned mischievously, sweeping Selina up in his muscular arms. “I am of the opinion that you require ravishing.”

Love and longing threatened to overwhelm her as she reached up to run her fingers along the handsome line of his jaw. "It is true. I fear I require it without delay."

“Then as ravishing you shall have.” With swift, purposeful strides, he carried her back toward the house, their laughter echoing through the moonlit gardens.