Page 10 of Real Earls Break the Rules

His words returned to her in a rush: you should be aware that I’m not one to follow the rules, and when I want something I don’t like to take no for an answer.

He wouldn’t try again, would he?

She needed to maintain her resolve and hold firm.

She became aware of Lady Helen waiting for her response. “I’d like to sell my work again one day, but not yet. Perhaps in the future.” She’d select her best sketches of her time in the rookeries and paint them. She’d often dreamed of having her own art exhibition, where she could display those works that really mattered to her—the paintings that showed those beaten down by circumstances not in their control.

Helen raised a hand to her throat. “In my excitement at seeing you work, I forgot to deliver my message. My brother, Vale, has returned from his business trip and has asked for your presence in the drawing room to welcome you and your sisters.”

Chapter Three

Amelia’s heart pounded as she stepped into the drawing room. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the fireplace where Vale stood leaning against the mantle. Her skirts rustled, and he turned.

“Welcome to my home.”

Her heart lurched at his smile. Dressed in a meticulously tailored navy jacket that emphasized his broad shoulders, he looked every inch the dominant earl. Tall boots over tan breeches that hugged muscular thighs added to his masculine appeal. A damp unruly lock that brushed his forehead was a shade darker than if it were dry. He must have returned from his business, ordered a bath, and headed straight for the drawing room. An image of his muscular frame in a marble bathtub came to mind—warm water cascading over his naked body, his head leaning on the rim of the tub, his arms resting along the sides. Her insides quivered at the image.

Heavens! She would have to guard her reactions as well as her thoughts.

He walked forward and stopped before her.

“Your home is lovely,” she said, glancing around nervously to see if either of her sisters were present. The room was empty.

Were her sisters delayed? Or had he summoned only her?

Her fingers curled in the folds of her skirts. “I was told you had unexpected business to attend.”

“Yes, but the trip was successful, and I believe it will prove advantageous.”

What an odd thing to say, she thought.

His smooth smile was back in place. “Are your accommodations satisfactory?”

“My bedchamber is lovely and spacious. Too spacious, in fact, not to share with my sister. Chloe and I would be happy to—”

“That wouldn’t work at all.” A flicker of predatory interest lightened the emerald in his eyes.

Her misgivings increased. What on earth did he mean?

A sudden unpleasant thought occurred to her. She’d been propositioned before by men who’d thought a shopkeeper easy prey for unwanted amorous advances. Lord Vale had already suggested she paint him in secret. Did he believe she would welcome his attentions now that she was under his roof?

She swallowed hard, squared her shoulders. “I was told you wanted me to have my own room. If you think I would welcome you or another into my chamber one night during the house party, then you are sorely mistaken.”

His expression stilled. “You think I would attempt such a thing?”

“What else am I to think?”

“I assure you, that’s not my reason.”

“Then why?”

“I’ll show you.” He offered his arm. “Will you accompany me?”

She eyed him with uncertainty, but whatever unease she felt was pushed aside by curiosity. She placed her hand on his sleeve.

As he escorted her out of the drawing room and into the hall she caught a hint of shaving soap and a clean masculine essence that belonged to him. She felt the strength of his forearm even through the fabric of his sleeve and the power that coiled within him as he walked. Beneath lowered lashes, she glimpsed his strong profile.

She forced her gaze to the carpet runner as he turned right, then left, then escorted her down a long hall and halted outside a closed door. He opened the door, and she swept into the room.