Page 54 of A Bluestocking for the Wicked Duke

“Yes, I remember something else,” she said.

Emma’s eyes widened with interest.

“We also spoke about the difference between life in Wellington and here in Buckingham.”

Emma’s hiss was loud and drawn out.

“Nonsense, the man has no range of knowledge. Is he so lacking in his ability to strike up interesting conversations?” Emma said, her irritation very evident to Joane.

Joane laughed out, unable to hold the laughter inside anymore. She saw Emma look at her.

“You lie. I know a man of such learning cannot be such a bore. What did you really do, tell me?” Emma asked.

“He kissed me,” Joane said softly.

She saw Emma’s eyebrows rise in surprise.

“Did you kiss him back?” Emma asked.

“Yes, yes I did.”

“How was it?” Emma asked.

Joane touched her lips again. Her memories were as vivid as a current happening.

His touch is fire.

She wanted to say that but she said something else.

“It was fiery. I don’t feel too comfortable talking about it,” Joane replied her.

“Even to your best friend?” Emma asked her.

Joane smiled. She couldn’t keep it away from Emma.

“He told me he came there to clear his head. So he took me upstairs with him to a fencing museum of some sort. It was obviously a very private place to him,” Joane said.

“Both of you were alone?”

“Yes. I asked him what he wanted.”

“What did he say?” Emma asked

“Nothing, he didn’t say anything. Instead he drew me closer and kissed me,” Joane replied.

She smiled as she said that. Her lips still tinged with the shock she had felt when he did that.

“I was shocked at first,” Joane said.

“But later?” Emma said, leading her on.

Joane turned to face her friend.

“Must I spell out everything?” she said.

Emma laughed when Joane said that. She pushed her gently.

“You know I’m always interested in those sort of discussions,” Emma replied.