An All Hallows’ Eve Mystery - Chapter 16
Jane hadn’t ever felt so…sumptuous. She’d had a good life, speckled with joy, pleasure, but nothing came close to waking tangled in John, as twilight forced dim light into their nest. They hadn’t slept much, enjoying sensual delights at every chance, still, she felt better rested than she had in years, though as she woke, reality settled heavily upon her.
John stirred, holding her tighter, and she grinned into his chest.
‘Good morning,’ he said, his voice gravelly and delightful, kissing her forehead.
‘Good morning, Mr Pierce.’
‘I’m certainly finding it so, Miss Powell.’ Slithering against him, Jane smiled broadly. ‘It’s early, and though I would love to remain here…forever, I think I should accompany you back upstairs, before you get into trouble.’
‘Unfortunately, yes. Fendrick and Mrs Gregor have been patient with my absence, however they wouldn’t stand for…promiscuousness with a guest.’
Reluctantly, she pulled away, and slid out of bed to dress.
John stirred, doing the same, and just as she pulled on her dressing gown, she felt him behind her.
Turning, she prepared herself for…something.
‘I meant what I said yesterday,’ he said seriously, taking her hands. ‘I would court you, Jane. This changes everything, and nothing. I’m not done with you, if you aren’t with me. It wasn’t merely…a night, for me.’
‘Nor for me,’ she admitted quietly, her heart skipping.
She smiled, and light beamed through him, as he kissed her gently.
‘I’ll walk you. I’ve a desire to search the attic.’
‘Why?’
‘Heard something last night. Do you know what’s up there?’
‘The usual,’ she said, keeping her voice low as they made their way to the servants’ quarters. Luckily, it was still early enough her escapade might go undetected. ‘Furniture, linens, trinkets.’
‘Rats?’
‘Possible, but unlikely.’ John lifted a brow doubtfully. ‘Fendrick is terrified. So there isn’t the usual…allowance for a few of them.’
‘Hm.’
John gestured her to wait, and opened the door to her room, glancing about before letting her in.
No one but Jenny, still snoring.
‘Check the water, just in case.’ Jane nodded, kissing him quickly. ‘How do I get to the attic?’
‘End of the corridor, then right. There’s a staircase. I’ll join once I’m dressed.’
John looked ready to argue, then considered it, and nodded, grinning.
‘You truly are something, Miss Powell,’ he said wondrously, before dashing off.
Will you think so once you know it all, Mr Pierce? Lord, I pray so.