Page 38 of What the Heart Knows

“Reid, please.” He took her hand and cast a sly glance at Kit. “I suspect we shall soon be more than friends.”

“Possibly.” She grinned. “You must call me Meg.”

“Certainly.”

“I thank you both for your care of me and your service to Fenwick on Sea.”

“Think nothing of it,” Reid replied.

“’Twas the least I could do.” Kit wanted to say so much more.

“My lord, I wish to make a plea on behalf of my father.”

Reid raised a brow.

“His crimes are serious, Miss Fenneman, he cannot go unpunished.”

“I would never ask that. I do hope I can persuade you to sue the Crown for some clemency and perhaps exile Father. He has some property in the West Indies where he could live.”

“Is the property in English territory?”

“No, French I believe.”

“I cannot promise anything. However, I shall see what can be done. I’ve some documents which might help.”

“I shall add my support for clemency in whatever way my cousin suggests,” Kit said.

“I’ll let you know, Kit, what will be needed.” Reid stood. “Now if you will excuse me. I must see the dragoons’ commanding officer and organize pursuit of Brookbank.”

“I am delighted to have met you, Reid.” Meg held out her hand.

Reid bowed over it then left.

Kit stood, crossing to the open doorway.

Meg remained in her chair near the fire.

“Shall I ring for your maid, Meg?”

“No,” she said, rising. “I don’t require Amanda’s assistance.”

“Bu…but, I would like to sit and talk with you a while. For us to be alone together is improper.”

Meg stepped close to him, placing her hands on his arms. “I like that you want to be with me. I find that I want to be improper with you.”

His hands grasped her waist. “How improper?”

“Very much.” She replied gazing up at him.

“Enough to marry a half-pay officer with some modest prospects and no home of his own?”

“I would marry you regardless of prospects and no pay.” She rose on tiptoe. Her arms circled his neck and pulled him to her.

The kiss was all he remembered. Knowing they’d marry made possessing her mouth all the sweeter.

“Ahem…”

They broke apart, facing the door he’d forgotten to close.