Love's Guardian (38 page)
She led Declan away from their son and through the entrance to the adjoining bedroom. After she shut the door, she turned to face him.
“You promised you’d fence with me today.”
“Did I?” Declan’s blue eyes shone with mischief. He walked over to the bed and put Guardian on the counterpane, stroking the cat’s fur with long, luxurious movements. He straightened and gave her an appraising look that sent shivers up her spine. “What do I get if I win?”
“Why, I’ll do as you ask, within reason, of course.”
At his crestfallen expression, she laughed and skirted his arms as he reached for her. She went to the wardrobe and removed her breeches and shirt. The enclosed garden would be lovely this time of day. Besides, Declan knew they’d end up here afterwards. They always did.
“What if I don’t wish to be reasonable?” Declan’s voice became intimate, a warm, low resonance that seemed to permeate her being. “Shall I describe some of the things I’d like to do to you?”
She felt heat rush through her body. The man was distracting her. “Win first.”
“Is that a challenge?”
Declan approached and proceeded to act as her lady’s maid, sliding the clothing from her body with slow, sensuous movements. She stood still, relishing the feel of the cloth against her skin. At last, she stood naked. Declan moved behind her, then reached around and ran slightly roughened hands down the front of her, starting with her breasts. “Before and after,” he breathed into her ear.
With a smile, she gave into temptation and leaned back against him. She knew when she’d met her match.