Page 57 of Watching the Earl

His lips lifted into a grin. “I like that idea. I will send my steward ahead to gather our tenants, and we can meet some this morning and more this afternoon. We can even stop at the inn for a meal in between.”

“I love that plan.” She tried to roll off him, but he held her fast. “Did you not wish to get up and start the day?”

“I’m already up and I wish to start the day inside my wife.”

At his bold statement, her belly quivered. Before she could respond, he’d rolled them over, entangling them in the sheets even more. Unfortunately, what he wished for was impossible now. As he frowned, obviously realizing his mistake, she laughed. “I do believe we must find a way out of the sheets if we wish to do anything.”

“You’re far too intelligent, wife.” He rolled them back, but even then, part of the sheet caught beneath him.

She giggled as she squirmed to free herself as he cursed beneath his breath. Finally, she managed to extract herself from the bed, only to find she needed to relieve herself. “If you will excuse me.” She grabbed up her dressing gown and donned it as she ran into her dressing room to take care of her morning business.

When she returned to the room, she found him sitting naked on the settee, the book Sophie had given her open.

He scowled at her. “What is this? Where did you get this?”

She frowned, not liking his harsh tone. “It was a wedding gift, or rather a loan, as all the Curious Ladies get to read it when they’re married. I haven’t had time to open it. To be honest, the title seemed redundant to me. We are all well educated.” His demeanor changed at her words, which made her curious. “Why? Is something wrong with it? I assure you, my friends would only pass along a book that has value.” She hurried over to sit next to him and looked at the open book. “Oh.”

“You truly haven’t opened this, then?”

She shook her head as she stared at the sketch of a naked man sitting on a chair with a naked woman straddling him. She wasn’t very experienced in intercourse yet, but her whole body heated at the sight. She swallowed hard. “I thought this was a book about educating women.”

Philip closed the book then reopened it to the first page. “The Illustrated Pleasures of Seduction. This is what is called curiosa and is usually bound in leather such as this to hide what’s inside. I’m surprised the ladies of your school would read this. Does the duchess know?”

“Oh, no. We secretly give this to each other. I think Lissa found it hidden away in the school’s library. There are thousands of books in there. I wonder if the duchess even knows it’s there. If she does, she may not know what’s inside.”

He turned the next page and read the dedication. “To all young men. Ignorance is not bliss. Only the knowledge contained herein can provide you with the skills to enjoy the true beauty and wonder of the female form. In the body of a woman, true bliss can be achieved. There is no greater pleasure on earth than when both of you reach fulfillment. Read carefully, study well, and practice often. This is your birthright as a man and your obligation to your woman. The Author.”

“So this is actually a book for men so they know how to, um, do what you do?”

He looked at her, a soft smile on his face. “Do what I do? You mean pleasure you?”

A lump formed in her throat, so she simply nodded.

“It appears so. However, I can see how it could be helpful to young women about to marry, or those who have recently married. I think we should read it together.”

She swallowed hard. “Together? But you know all about…this.” She pointed to the book.

“I do indeed, so who would be a better teacher? I suggest we read a chapter a night. If you have any questions or wish me to show you what is meant, I’ll be right here for you.”

She looked at him then at the book, and turned the page to find a sketch of a naked woman on one side with the label Woman and a sketch of a naked man with the label Man on the other. She grinned. “I already know this.” She cocked her head as she studied the man. “He’s not nearly as handsome as you, but she is much better endowed than I am.”

Philip turned her head toward him. “Every man and every woman is created differently. I personally find you very appealing just as you are.”

She searched his gaze, hoping he spoke the truth. “You don’t think I should eat more? I know I’m far too thin. I promise, I eat as much as I can.”

He smiled. “Indeed, I’ve noticed. I did at first think you needed to eat more, but now that I have seen you without clothes, I’m quite pleased with you just as you are.”

Her heart thudded hard within her chest. Her whole life she’d been told she was too thin, and her brothers had told her no man would want her because she looked like a boy. “Truly?”

“Yes. And if you doubt me, just look. I have no control over this.” He pointed to his lap.

She glanced downward to find him growing hard. Her own body reacted at the sight, and she reached toward him.

Philip caught her hand. “I think we best rise and dress. We have many people to see today if we wish to have more of the week to enjoy our own activities.”

She gave him a sheepish smile, having completely forgotten about what was planned for the day. “Of course. Maybe we can read through the first chapter after dinner?”

“I think that an excellent plan.” He took her hand and rose, bringing her close, then, following a brief kiss, he left, throwing his dressing gown on as he strode toward the door.