Rafael wrapped a hand around Hugo’s trunk and pulled it away from Willette. ‘Watch your manners, big boy,’ he told the elephant. ‘I’ll introduce you to the lady, but you have to behave.’
As if he understood, Hugo seemed to nod his head.
Keeping an arm around Willette, Rafael pivoted so they were facing the enclosure. Hugo’s head stuck over the top rail of the fence.
‘Willette, this is Hugo,’ he said, ‘and, Hugo, this is Miss Willette Burmingham.’
Hugo lifted his trunk and let out a small trumpet.
Willette’s laughter was as enjoyable as her singing. Hugo agreed because he let out another trumpet, then lowered his trunk for her to pet.
Rafael noticed the fence crawler he’d saved from getting squashed, who was called Gil, watching the encounter with his family, and he waved them closer. The woman, who had two other children with her and had thanked him profusely, was hesitant. ‘Hugo won’t hurt anyone on purpose,’ Rafael said. ‘Come let Gil say hello. That’s all he was trying to do earlier.’
The small group approached, and Rafael’s heart swelled at how Willette knelt down and encouraged Gil to pet Hugo’s trunk. Within moments, she had all three children gathered around, talking and touching the elephant. She liked children. He did, too. Children were fun and, since he seemed inescapably destined to be married, Rafael wouldn’t mind having a houseful.
His mind instantly went to how enjoyable making all those babies would be, as long as it was with Willette, and his body had such a reaction that he shifted his stance in hope of relieving the strain.
It should be disconcerting how she affected him. Had affected him since they’d met. If only she weren’t set and destined to become a famous singer. The social expectations of a viscount did not allow for his wife to work outside the home. And though Rafael wouldn’t mind, he had to think of her, and what the gossips would say, the social criticism. He couldn’t allow her to be hurt because of him.
When the children turned to leave, Rafael reached down and took Willette’s elbow to help her stand. It was hard to say how long he would have stood there like a stone statue, just staring at her beauty, foolishly wishing things could be different, if Mr Ratnam, Hugo’s keeper, hadn’t arrived.
‘Mr Williams,’ Mr Ratnam said. ‘Thank you for your fast thinking—and fast feet! I saw the boy, but couldn’t get across the pen quickly enough.’
‘Glad I could help,’ Rafael replied. ‘You might consider putting up a barrier between the bottom two poles, just to prevent another eager fan from climbing through.’
‘That’s an excellent idea, and I’ll see to it post-haste.’ Mr Ratnam gave a nod to Willette. ‘My lady,’ he said, before turning about and sprinting off.
‘That is a very good idea,’ Willette said, nodding towards the fence.
‘I have a good idea every now and again,’ he replied, and as one entered his head, he asked, ‘What are you doing tomorrow evening?’
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