Page 46 of Falling for a Footman

Charlotte seized the opportunity to untie James’ hands. When she accidentally brushed his finger, they gripped hers for a moment. Relief flushed through her like a hot wave: At least he was alive. At least he was conscious.

“Please Peggy,” she heard William cry behind her as he was fighting the much smaller woman. She was struggling with a desperation like a caged animal.

“Let me go, William,” she practically screamed.

“I will not let you hurt Lady Charlotte,” William said in a low, strained voice.

Charlotte ignored them, feeling certain that William would be able to restrain Miss Walker long enough for her to help James.

“How are you?” she asked and could not help but run two fingers down his cheek briefly. His stubble scratched her skin.

“I’ fine,” he groaned as he struggled to sit up. Charlotte supported him. “My head aches though.”

Charlotte helped him rise and hobbled away from the fighting couple. Miss Walker was clawing at William to let her lose. William cried out in pain as her nails scratched his face.

“Calm yourself, Miss Walker,” James bellowed at impressive volume despite the fact that he was still clinging to Charlotte for support.

Miss Walker seized fighting William for only a moment as if James’ words where enough to stun her for a moment.

“If you want to avoid making your situation worse, Miss Walker, I strongly advise you to calm yourself this minute. You will neither be able to harm me, nor Lady Charlotte,” James bit at her, as Charlotte felt him straightening himself a bit.

At that moment the head groom followed by several stable boys appeared. After a brief explanation of the situation, they were able to take control over Miss Walker and escort her and William back to the estate. Charlotte sighed with relief when she saw them leave. When they were alone in the dark, she suddenly started noticing the heath from James’ body and just how close together they were standing. Her stomach fluttered at the feeling and she could not help but burry a bit deeper into his body.

“Charlotte,” he murmured and turned his head towards her.

Their heads were so close, their mouths were so close. If only she knew his reasoning for keeping his identity from her, she would have no hesitation in closing the gap between them.

“Your dog!” she blurted before his mouth found hers. “Mr. Giles said that the puppies might not make it.”

James took two steps away from her in the direction of the door, stumbled and only managed to stay upright because Charlotte caught him.

“I’ll walk you there,” she offered gently.