Page 46 of Juliet's Touch

“Forgive me for saying so, but sometimes your parents are bloody beastly,” Alexander said. “Especially your mother. You are both beautiful and intelligent.”

Emily smiled at her husband.

“And Burney is insightful and quite humorous,” he added. “I enjoyed reading her body of work.”

Juliet’s shoulders relaxed, and then she beamed.

How could any parent ever make either of these remarkable women feel ashamed of who they were? Eric wasn’t sure he favored Baron and Baroness Coldpepper.

“Is everyone ready?” Alexander asked.

“Yes,” the ladies called out enthusiastically.

Alexander opened the book. He cleared his throat, then read, “Peace to the spirits of my honored parents, respected be their remains, and immortalized their virtues…”

Eric had never before had someone read a novel to him, and surprisingly, he was quickly absorbed in the heroine’s story. He placed his drink on a side table. Leaning his head against the back of the chair, he closed his eyes and pricked up his ears.

Eventually, Alexander’s voice became strained. Emily stepped in and took over the narration. All the while, Eric attentively listened until a prickle traveled up his spine. His fighting instincts kicked in. Someone was watching him.

He opened his eyes and perused the room. Lord Chesterhill’s head lolled to the side. He appeared to be sound asleep. Emily was focused on the book, and Alexander was focused on his wife.And Juliet Coldpepper? She was staring at him. She didn’t even try to hide it.

Her scorching gaze slid to his lips. Was that desire he saw in her hazel eyes? Perhaps it was, since she licked her top lip.

Even from where he sat, he could see her breath hitch and her chest expand. She lifted her gaze to look into his eyes, piercing him with an invisible arrow formed from need. There was no doubt in his mind that Juliet was aroused. Her palpable desire ensconced him, sending a bolt to his heart that journeyed downward.

Hell’s thunder. His cock snapped to attention. Sitting in the drawing room with his new family while a cockstand throbbed in his trousers would not do. He crossed one leg over his lap, hoping to hide his randy state.

Juliet sighed. Loudly.

Yawning, Emily closed the book. “I am quite tired.”

Alexander stretched his arms to the ceiling. “As am I.” He strolled to their father and patted his shoulder. “Father.”

Chesterhill awoke with a snort.

“You fell asleep,” Alexander said.

“Horsefeathers,” Chesterhill said. “To the devil with aging.”

“’Tis better than not having a chance to grow old,” Emily said.

Eric wholeheartedly agreed. He’d do anything to have his mother in his life. Her gray hair, wrinkles, and any untimely cat naps would all be welcomed and cherished.

“True,” Chesterhill said.

“Come, Juliet.” Emily tugged Juliet’s hand. “I will walk you to your chamber.”

Juliet remained seated, and for a second, Eric thought she might stay right where she was. If only the two of them could remain in the drawing room, alone. Sadly, Juliet stood and picked up her slippers. Linking arms, the sisters headed toward the door. Before Juliet disappeared into the hallway, she peeredover her shoulder and smiled at Eric. He did the most ridiculous thing ever. He sent her a finger wave.

From behind him, Chesterhill chuckled, and Eric suspected he whispered, “Young love,” under his breath.