Impending Reprisals by Jolyn Palliata Read Free Book Online

as his mouth curved into an unsure smile.
    He once again took her hand into his as he leaned closer. “Are you certain?”
    “I am.”
    Lord Merivic’s smile widened as he leaned toward her, his gaze darting to her lips to show his intent. Anya felt her whole body vibrate with nerves as she discerned the situation—he only leaned in halfway, leaving the remaining distance for her to close, if she wished to. Apparently, it was as he said: It would always be her choice.
    Locking on his gentle, adoring gaze she eased toward him, closing her eyes a moment before their mouths met.
    The kiss was innocent, a soft brushing of lips before respect had him drawing back. 
    Anya opened her eyes and flushed as she looked to her lap, not because it was her first kiss, but because it was her first kiss with another man. In the brief intimate moment there were so many sensations she had felt that were completely foreign to her—from the tingle traveling her frame, to the tickle of the light stubble on his face. It was all entirely new, and thoroughly exciting.

Chapter 6
    3 Months Later
    It had been nearly three months ago that Anya agreed to Lord Merivic’s request to call on her, and call on her he did—almost every day since, to her initial disappointment. At first she found the entire situation a bit awkward; two strangers endeavoring to feel comfortable together when they came from very different places. But through casual questions, emotional nudges, countless conversations, and the span of time, Anya found there was more to him than she had first believed.
    Lord Merivic’s life was far different than hers—such adventures he had experienced! But the character and honor of who she saw before her was very familiar; not unlike another young man who crept into her thoughts time and again. The lordship spoke with passion when voicing his thoughts and opinions, listening attentively when he asked for hers in return, and frequently exemplified his kind and gentle nature.
    Anya also became more at ease with his affections in the form of hand-holding and tender kisses, always soft and always hesitant as if seeking permission each time. It became a natural reaction for her to reciprocate the adoring contact, and she rarely hesitated anymore when he leaned into her. The brushing of his lips against hers still caused an exciting tingle to rush through her, but she never longed for more. She was simply accepting and agreeable with what physical contact they had.
    Lord Merivic wrapped his hand around Anya’s as they walked through the courtyard of Liberwood Castle, his temporary home over the past few months, and she glanced at him with an easy smile as he did.
    They walked in a comfortable silence, simply enjoying each other’s presence and letting their minds drift with the lazy breeze. Often the couple did this until they found a cozy spot to settle, and eventually fell into a long conversation.
    Lord Merivic gestured to a large, elaborate water fountain depicting a fallen angel reaching for the heavens, and led Anya to one of the stone benches carved into the side. He sat next to her, still holding her hand, and watched her hair as it glistened in the light. She appeared so content, so at peace, that he nearly did not broach the topic plaguing his thoughts.
    “I will be leaving in a fortnight,” he murmured, watching Anya for her reaction.
    Her pleasant expression darkened as she looked down, then away. “Yes, I know.”
    Anya had so enjoyed having a companion to spend her days with. For a long time she had felt lonely in life and Lord Merivic had filled the dark void nicely. She knew the time was nearing when he would have to leave, and as of late, she had been struggling with how it made her feel. More often than not, she pushed the feelings aside and refused to acknowledge them, but as the time fast approached she determined she would indeed miss him dearly. 
    Lord Merivic was pleased that Anya appeared disappointed, not