Page 82 of A Secret Desire

Tobias cleared his throat. “On the sidewalk? Come now, not even love is worth such an exhibition. It’s not done. It’s uncouth. It’s impro—”

“Stuff it, Tobias,” Grayson growled, his lips barely leaving Henrietta’s to speak the words.

“Shouldn’t we be going inside, anyway? You do have a shop to run, Hen.” Tobias sauntered around their entwined forms and disappeared into the open shop door, Adaline’s hand in his own. Ada followed close on their heels, her cheeks as red as Lady Pendleson’s newest gown.

Henrietta chuckled. “He’s right, you know, future dukes likely shouldn’t kiss their shopkeeper wives in the street.”

His arms tightened around her, the gentle vice kept her from slipping away. “There are many things future dukes should not do, but this future duke does as he pleases. And right now, it pleases me to kiss you senseless.”

“Hm. I’m very sensible, you know. It may take some time.”

“How fortunate for me.” His lips took hers once more, and she breathed him in. He could do as he pleased for the rest of his years as long as what he pleased was loving her.