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“When I saw you looking like sin itself in your nightdress.”
She swatted him on the shoulder. “You thought I looked like sin that night?”
“I know you did, as did every other man in the tavern.”
She released a soft breath. “I was uncomfortable in that dress. The woman I borrowed it from must have been tiny. I almost gave up and went home before I’d even started, but Alice—the other barmaid—convinced me to stay. Mr. Markham paid her to look out for me.”
“Well, thank heavens for that. Would you care to explain why you were there to begin with?”
“I was doing research… for the book I’m writing.”
He shook his head. It didn’t surprise him that Amelia would think to immerse herself in that environment for the sake of her writing. Given that she no longer hid the fact she was writing a book from him and that her fingers seemed to be permanently stained with ink, it was clear she was dedicated to her craft.
Still, he had to know just how far she’d gone. “Was that night your first working as a barmaid?” He steeled himself as he waited for her reply. He hated the thought of her putting herself in such danger.
“Yes. The first and the last. I think in future I’ll limit my research to interviewing people who can help me understand my characters.”
He dragged her over him so her body draped over his. “I’m glad to hear that.”
She bit her lower lip, and his eyes focused on the movement. “You don’t mind?”
“What? That you did something dangerous for the sake of your writing?”
She nodded.
“I’m not happy about it, but at least Markham arranged to have someone watch out for you. And if I’m not mistaken, there was a man in the corner whom he’d also paid to ensure you stayed safe.”
Her eyes widened in surprise. “Are you sure? He never mentioned that to me.”
“The man’s eyes didn’t leave you all night. And when I stood to intervene, he was already out of his chair, ready to do the same. Also, I saw him outside that night after you’d left in the carriage. At first I thought his interest in you was of the unseemly sort, but now I realize he was there to ensure your safety. Given what I know about Markham, it makes sense.”
Amelia shook her head. “I don’t know why he didn’t tell me. I wouldn’t have protested.”
“Perhaps he thought you would… We can ask him the next time we see him. But I have one more question to ask before I allow you to distract me again.”
She raised a brow in question and waited.
“Are you close to the point where you’ll allow me to read your book?”
She buried her face in his chest and he waited. He’d caught the look of horror on her face.
“If you wish to be published, you’ll have to show others your writing.”
She lifted her head and met his gaze. “Is it strange that I feel more stripped bare when talking about my writing than lying in bed with you without a stitch of clothing on?”
He considered the question. “Maybe it’s a combination of both happening at the same time. We could discuss this tomorrow.”
Her smile widened. “And I didn’t even have to distract you.”
“Trust me, Amelia, the very fact you exist is a distraction. When you’re pressed up against me like this, I don’t stand a chance of holding on to a coherent thought.”
Her smile had the power to make his heart feel lighter. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t realized right away this woman was the same one he’d met that night in London, but he thanked his lucky stars that she was with him now.
“You know, it occurs to me that I still have some research to do when it comes to romantic relationships. Perhaps I should put my nightdress back on and arrange to interview you?” The twinkle in her eye told him she knew very well what was about to happen after making such an outrageous statement.
He shifted them both until she was under him, his body pressing her much softer one into the mattress. He rested most of his weight on one arm so he wouldn’t crush her.
“I think in this, I’ll need to give you another demonstration.”
