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CHAPTER TEN

Later that evening, while the vicar read in his study and Elizabeth sat by the kitchen fire, hemming a shirt, Matthew pulled up a chair next to her. Mrs. Albright had been hidden away with a kind neighbor for the night.

Elizabeth glanced at him, her soft smile and warm chocolate eyes causing a twinge in his stomach, which he promptly ignored.

“I’m leaving tomorrow.”

Her face paled. “So soon? Are you sure you’re well enough to travel? You may have reinjured yourself earlier.”

“The physician checked me over when he came to examine Mrs. Albright. He said I’m fit to travel. It’s imperative I check on my estate. Time I do my part.”

“That’s admirable.”

“No, it’s not. I’ve allowed things to languish. I need to do right by the people who depend upon me.”

Elizabeth reached over a hand and touched his cheek. “You’re choosing to leave your old ways and step into your responsibilities. A man with integrity, who cares for others, is a man to be admired.”

He closed his eyes for a moment, savoring her warm hand cupping his face before she returned it to her work.

Clearing his throat, he continued. “My carriage will arrive in the morning. I’ve offered Mrs. Albright a position at one of the family homes, where Mr. Albright won’t be able to locate her.

She’s accepted and will be traveling with me and my servants. ”

Her eyes shone as she sprang to her feet. “That’s wonderful news! Thank you for finding a way to keep her safe.” She leaned over and hugged him around the neck, and he wrapped his arms around her, knowing it was the last time he’d enjoy her embrace.

As she pulled away from him, her eyes dropped to his lips. He remained still, barely breathing. When she moved closer, he slid his eyes closed and waited.

Her lips brushed over his in a featherlight movement. She kissed him softly before kissing him again, this time with more pressure and a dangerous urgency.

When she slid into his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck, he pulled her closer. He allowed himself to indulge briefly in the reckless pleasure of kissing her.

Before he could ruin everything, he lifted her and set her back on her feet, his heart thumping at her pink cheeks, rosy lips, and look of dazed pleasure.

He stood up, not daring to hold her again. “I must get some sleep before traveling tomorrow. Good night, Miss Stanley. I can never thank you enough for…being who you are.” He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, then turned and walked upstairs without a look back.