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Taking only one, she brought the dinner she’d scavenged back to the barn. Easton straightened, his gaze catching hers the moment she entered. “You found bread.”
“And berries,” she said, pointing to her skirt where she’d carried them by creating a pouch of sorts with the fabric. The gown had been a fine muslin creation, a gift from Bash, but it was hopelessly ruined even before the berries.
She’d love a bath, a long soak in hot water, but she was used to going without. Still, as she glanced at Easton, she realized she likely looked even worse than she felt. She sighed to herself. It didn’t matter what he thought, so long as he kept her safe.
With that in mind, she found a blanket and laid it out, setting up a picnic of sorts.
As she did so, Easton stepped out into the darkness, and she heard the water pump being used.
Likely, he was getting them fresh water, so she kept working until he came back a few minutes later, stripped to the waist.
Even in the darkness, she could see the rippling muscles of his naked torso glistening in the pale moonlight.
Her breath caught, and an unexpected ache settled between her legs.
How was it this man made her feel things no other had?
And now?
Danger breathed down her neck and it was more important than ever for her to break off on her own and establish her own safe life.
Lily looked down again at her own soiled dress, and then rose.
She couldn’t strip as he’d done but some cold water splashed on her face might do wonders to cool her rising temperature. “Do you mind waiting just a few more minutes?”
“Not at all.”
He swept his hand toward the door, pointing the way. She started toward him, needing to pass him to reach the pump.
As she did, he held out his hand, a fresh cake of soap in his palm.
She caught a whiff of the scent—sandalwood. But it wasn’t coming from the soap. Or rather, it had been from the soap, but it was now all over him. And it mixed with his natural male aroma that was both pleasant and…
She stopped her thoughts, attempting to take the soap without actually touching him. Somehow, she felt certain he’d know her thoughts if she did.
And it was imperative that he not know.
She trusted no man to know he had power over her.
She took the soap, her fingers just grazing his palm. Her breath held for a moment. What was wrong with her? She’d just napped on this man without incident.
But she’d been frightened and then relieved to just be out of that carriage.
And now that she’d had some rest and a little distance…
Easton was wreaking havoc on her senses.
And that wouldn’t do.
Turning, she made her way out to the pump. Not only did she intend to wash away as much of the dirt and grime as she possibly could, but she’d also cleanse herself of this unwanted attraction.
Ash watched her walk away, the gentle sway of her body as she moved hypnotic.
What had gotten into him?
Arabella was the closest thing to a sister he had. Didn’t that make Lily his family by extension?
But Arabella wasn’t his sister.
