“Dangerous? I am shocked, sir. Shocked and appalled at such an accusation.”
“My most humble apologies, my lady. I merely meant to suggest that a woman of independent thought and action might prove unsettling to those of more conventional disposition.”
“And are you of conventional disposition, sir?”
“Not in the slightest.” He leans closer, his voice dropping. “I find myself most drawn to revolutionary creatures.”
We maintain the act all the way to my apartment building, our conversation growing increasingly ridiculous. By the time Hudson pulls up, we're both struggling not to break character.
Liam exits first and offers his hand with elaborate courtesy. “Allow me to assist you, my lady.”
I take his hand, gathering my enormous skirts. “You are too kind, sir.”
He doesn't release my hand as we walk toward the building. When we reach the door, I turn to him with mock surprise.
“Sir, surely you do not intend to accompany me further?”
“I must ensure you reach your residence safely.” His expression is deadly serious despite the absurdity of our conversation. “There are scoundrels and ruffians about. A gentleman cannot in good conscience leave a lady unprotected.”
“But sir, what will people say?”
“Let them say what they will. Your safety is paramount.”
I press my hand to my chest in exaggerated gratitude. “You are too kind. Too noble. How shall I ever repay such chivalrous attention?”
We take the elevator up and when we reach my door, I unlock it and turn to face him.
“I am home safely, thanks to your gallant protection. How can I possibly show my gratitude?”
He steps inside. “Perhaps you might allow me to ensure no danger lurks within your chambers?”
“Oh!” I press my hand to my throat. “You believe there may be threats within my own home?”
“One can never be too cautious, my lady. Permit me to inspect the premises.”
He makes a grand show of checking my living room, peering behind furniture and into corners. “The parlor appears secure. But what of your sleeping quarters? Surely that is where the greatest danger might hide.”
“Sir,” I gasp. “You suggest entering my bedchamber? That would be most improper.”
“Propriety must yield to safety, my lady.” He offers his arm, chin held high. “I insist.”
I take his arm, and we proceed down the hallway to my bedroom with all the seriousness of a royal procession. Once inside, Liam makes another elaborate show of checking the space.
“The room appears secure,” he announces finally. “Though I confess some concern about your ability to prepare for rest without assistance.”
“I assure you, I am quite capable of preparing for bed.” My voice comes out breathless, betraying how much I want his hands on me.
“Nonsense. These modern fashions are far too complex for a lady to navigate alone.” He gestures to my elaborate costume. “It would be most ungentlemanly of me to leave you to struggle.”
“You propose to help me undress?” I make my voice scandalized, even as heat pools low in my stomach at the thought.
“Merely to ensure your comfort and safety, my lady. I am a gentleman of honor.”
The corner of my mouth twitches with a smile. “Of course. Your intentions are purely honorable.”
“The most honorable.” He moves behind me, his fingers finding the laces of my bodice. “I shall close my eyes to preserve your modesty.”
“You're going to unlace my dress with your eyes closed?” My skin tingles everywhere he's not touching yet.
