Page 15 of Reforming the Rakish Marquess

Jude clasped her wrist and pulled her hand back. A hurt expression marred her beautiful visage, and he couldn’t allow her to believe for a second that he wouldn’t have enjoyed her taking him in hand.

“I already spent.”

“You also had an orgasm?” she asked. The word sounded naughtier on her tongue, and he liked it.

He nodded.

“But how?”

Jude found her eagerness to learn charming. It had been his most erotic experience, and somehow the most comfortable, even with the comical nature of the situation.

“It’s a bit hard to explain.” He mentally laughed at his choice of words. “But I enjoyed pleasuring you so much and your body rubbing against mine that it brought me to the point of doing so.”

“Is that normally how it happens for men?”

He should have known she wouldn’t leave it at that. “Not usually, but it happens. Obviously. A bit more direct attention is typically required.”

How had his life changed so much in one afternoon that his breeches were wet with his own seed and he was explaining how things could happen while she sat on his lap as if were the most normal occurrence. He was far too comfortable with Juliana, a notion that should scare him.

She contemplated his words, and he took notice of the way her lips formed a small pout. Her bottom lip was full and he wondered what it would feel like. Never in his life had he had such a thought, and that was enough to spur him into action.

“I should take my leave. I find I am in need of a change of clothing.” He offered her a self-deprecating grin, and picked her up, setting her on his feet so he could stand.

She giggled, and he laughed along with her. Even he could admit it was a bit amusing.

He took her hand and brought it to his lips. “I shall see you later this evening, will I not?”

“You shall,” she replied, far too beautiful for her own good.

He bowed and turned on his heel to take his leave, shaking his head to himself as he recalled the events of the afternoon. He’d leave it to Juliana if she wished to ask for more.

Chapter Five

Juliana was still in a bit of a stupor where Jude left her on the settee. She knew that such things were supposed to be enjoyable, but Jude’s touch unlocked something within. Knowing that such pleasures existed only made her want to explore further, with Jude.

She must arrange the next rendezvous with the man because there wasn’t a doubt in her mind she wanted to learn and experience more of what he could show her.

Her face flushed and a blush rose in her cheeks at how brazen she was in asking him to fulfill her wanton desires. She was lucky he didn’t run away from her, believing she had gone mad. She trusted him, and knew he would keep her secrets, as well as make her nights enjoyable. Especially since that afternoon had been a delightful indication of what she might expect.

Next time, she would ensure she got to see what caused the tempting bulge in his pants, and what it meant for him when he “spent” as he had said. She cackled at her wicked thoughts. Intense longing consumed her, surpassing even the nights spent alone in her marriage bedchamber, questioning if Edward would ever desire children with her. She never had such thoughts or daydreams about her husband.

Standing up, she righted her skirts and brushed away a few wrinkles. She tucked a couple of loose curls behind her ear and ensured nothing looked amiss.

Drummond entered the drawing room. “My lady, you have a caller. Lady Hannah is here to see you.”

“Please bring her here, and arrange for fresh tea to be brought in.” The tea from Jude’s visit was still where they had left it.

A smile played on her lips, recalling again what had occurred between them.

“Well, you certainly seem happy, dearest. Did something happen?” Hannah asked. She crossed the room and bussed Juliana’s cheeks, which were sure to be a light pink color in response to Hannah’s question.

“I don’t know what you mean,” Juliana replied, brushing off Hannah’s question.

Hannah narrowed her eyes and assessed Juliana’s response. “You were smiling. It was the happiest smile I’ve seen you wear for at least a year.”

Juliana waved her off. “I must have been recalling something.” Which was true. “I am feeling better now that I am out of mourning.” Also true. She motioned for Hannah to take her seat.

Hannah shrugged. “Well, whatever it is, I enjoy seeing you so happy.”