Page 28 of One Naughty Christmas Night

Goosebumps covered her arms at the touch of his hands, tying the nightgown back together.

His eyes were warm with desire, and she felt heat pool in her belly, her body yearning for his hands on her again.

A curse came from him before he grabbed her to him and kissed her, her hands clutching his arms.

His hands roamed her body, stoking the blaze building inside her.

Something crashed outside his door, and he pulled away, reminding them once again that they weren’t alone.

“You need to go, Victoria.”

“I know.” Spite welled up at his needing to leave for Christmas Eve breakfast. But it was another tradition that his family had, and she knew it.

He set her back from him and went to the chairs they’d abandoned last night, grabbing her book and shawl.

“I’ll see you at the present opening,” he said, handing them to her with a kiss on her forehead.

“Okay,” she replied, turning to leave.

She turned back to him and grabbed his neck, his lips crashing down onto hers when she pulled him down to her.

He grabbed her tightly to him, his lips ravaging hers.

Breaking the kiss, she rushed from the room, leaving him standing there.

***

Heath walked down the stairs to the parlor where his family always took Christmas Eve breakfast, allowing the rest of the house to use the dining room instead.

“Good morning, everyone,” he said, coming into the room.

His family was already seated, waiting for him to arrive.

“It looks like I’m dreadfully late,” he stated, taking his seat.

“You are, dear,” she replied, glaring at Quinn.

He muttered something about annoying siblings but went back to his plate.

“I’ll be sure to be on time for the rest of the festivities, I promise,” he said.

“Good.” His mother motioned for them to be served, and the staff came to life, covering the table with food.

The conversation was casual as they ate, all the structures and manners of society left at the door.

“I’m so excited for the Christmas Eve Ball tonight,” Valentina said, helping Samantha with her plate.

“So am I,” his mother said, setting her glass down. “All the lovely ladies in their lovely gowns. Heath, of course, will dance with them.”

“Yes, Mother,” he replied, taking a bite.

“I suspect he’ll be too busy with Victoria to want to dance with every young lady,” the Duke said, taking a deep drink of his glass.

“Victoria will spare him for a few dances, won’t she, dear?” she said, giving him a look he knew all too well. That look meant she wanted him to dance with a few ladies so he could find someone to marry.

As if one dance could make me fall instantly in love.

“Yes, Mother,” he replied.