Lilly Blossoms (Lessons in Submission Book 3) by Maggie Ryan Read Free Book Online Page A

is someone?"
    "A gentleman does not share such intimate details," Phillip offered, though he knew that within the walls of the house that stood before him, such intimate details were not only shared, they were discussed in very explicit detail.
    Eleanor laughed and lifted herself onto her tiptoes to kiss his cheek. "I have a feeling that I'll be counting you among my clients before too long." Patting his arm, she added, "And, I always have been able to count on my instincts."
    Aware that Douglas was listening to every word, Phillip simply nodded. Eleanor gave Douglas his own kiss and returned to the house. Once inside the carriage again, Douglas wasted no time.
    "What did she mean by that? Is she perhaps bringing in another new student?"
    "I don't know," Phillip said. For the first time in his life, he didn't feel the urge to share his feelings with his best friend. It wasn't that he didn't trust Douglas with his desires, as they were men of the same ilk… he just knew it was not yet time. Instead, he said, "You were right about the museum. As much as I love art, even I admit that spending twenty minutes looking at the same painting is a bit much."
    As it always did, the mention of Rachel had Douglas smiling. "I told you, and if you tell me you could follow her story about a dragon, a knight, and some damsel in distress, I'll throw you out of this carriage."
    The two laughed in easy companionship and spoke about the various paintings until the carriage pulled up in front of Phillip's house. Before he alighted, Douglas reached out and laid his hand on Phillip's arm. "Don't think I'm too dense not to know something is going on. Just know that I hope you find the happiness that I have. I'm here if you need an ear."
    "That I'll never forget, my friend," Phillip assured him. "I'll see you tomorrow but I'll not need a ride."
    "You're still taking in the fresh air? Lord, man, that would be a ten-mile trip, each way!"
    "No, even I don't feel the need to walk quite that far. I'll ride over on Racer. He doesn't get enough exercise."
    "All right. See you then."
    Phillip waited until the carriage disappeared and then went inside. "Good evening, Robert."
    "Good evening, sir," his butler returned, taking his hat and coat.
    "Oh, could you ask John to have Racer ready tomorrow?"
    "Certainly, sir. What time do you wish to ride?"
    Knowing that he had no true idea of what time, Phillip made a guess based on the previous week. They'd taken their stroll in the garden after dinner. He wanted to finish his surprise before then. "Three o'clock should be fine."
    "Very well, sir."
    Thanking him, Phillip went to his office for his nightly ritual. He always ended his day with a glass of brandy and a book that he enjoyed before the fire. However, the book remained on a side table as he settled himself into his chair. Looking at his large mahogany desk, he remembered sitting in a different office, and lifted his glass.
    "Here's to hope," he said, giving a nod as if his toast had been acknowledged before taking a sip. He had to grin thinking of Eleanor's words. He was also one to trust in his instincts, and just prayed that they wouldn't take this opportunity to disabuse him of that trust.
     

Chapter Five
     
    The moment Phillip mounted the black stallion the next day, Racer began to prance. Bending forward, Phillip patted his velvet skin. "Easy boy, easy."
    "He's ready to run," John said. The young man served as a jack-of-all-trades, doing any task within his ability, and yet Phillip knew he was truly the happiest in the stables.
    "I've been neglecting him," Phillip admitted. "I'll make sure he gets a good run. Thanks, John."
    "Have a good ride, sir," John said, releasing his hold on the reins and stepping to the side. The horse gave a lunge but Phillip was prepared and easily held him in. He grinned as the horse shifted as if attempting to show his rider who was really in control. Phillip just chuckled. He was experienced in not only horseflesh, but