Shadows of Doubt by Elizabeth Johns Read Free Book Online Page B

not have agreed to something which I did not wish to participate.” He watched carefully as her brush stilled. It went back to work after a few moments, but she did not respond. Again, she chose to ignore his hinting, and boldly at that.  
    He was near, too near, standing directly behind her as she worked, taking in her scent of…he sniffed. What was that fragrance? Lemons, lavender and turpentine? He leaned forward and inhaled deeply. He had the strongest urge to pull her in his arms kiss her.
    She spun about and almost covered him with her palette of paint. She drew it back and fell forward into him. He had to force himself to right her, when all he longed to do was give the old harpies an eyeful. Nothing went on in this town that the ‘Bath quizzes’ did not know about, and that would not be fair to leave Miss Lambert’s reputation ruined when he was leaving two days hence.
    “Pardon me, I was trying to see your view as you paint.”
    “Oh, by all means then.” The innocent miss scooted over to make room for him. He moved closer, against his better judgement, and was completely enthralled by her creation. The picture was beginning to take form, no longer splotches of colour, but a glorious imitation of the scene before him. It was wonderful. And so was the painting.
    “Is it so dreadful you have no words?” she said with self-deprecating humour.
    “On the contrary, I am in awe that you were able to make me think Bath stone glorious.”
    She laughed. It was the most melodious sound he had ever heard. Her face lit up and she forgot to be cautious. He wanted a portrait of that to take with him on his travels.
    “I confess I was shocked when you selected this spot for the painting.”
    He shrugged a shoulder. “I wanted to see you paint, and this seemed the best location.”
    She shied again. “I apologise, I had not thought of your comfort. I tend to forget myself when I hold one of these in my hand.” She waved the brush dramatically.
    “There was no discomfort, I assure you.” Save his pride.
    “I would love to hear about your travels one day, Mr. Abbott. I may live vicariously through you.”
    “That would bore you, indeed.”
    “No, please. I long to hear of other places. All of my visions of places are from books. To hear an account first hand would be delightful.”
    “I could not do justice to them, for I am no poet.” He suddenly had an idea for a gift.
    “There.” She placed one last stroke on the canvas with a flourish. “I believe I may be finished for now.”
    “You are certain you are not stopping so soon for my benefit?”
    “No,” she smiled. “I am certain.”
    “Shall I have everything delivered to your home?”
    “Thank you, yes. I shall place the finishing touches tonight after this dries.”
    “I will have it seen to.” He waved the footmen over and directed the transport of the supplies back to Miss Lambert’s home.
    “Shall we walk?” She eyed her work on the easel then looked towards the footmen with distrust. “It will be fine. They will guard it with their lives.”
    She nodded, unconvinced, and hesitantly took his proffered arm. She reached up to adjust her bonnet and left behind a smudge of paint. Heaven help him, he was jealous of that streak of jade that matched her eyes. He took out his handkerchief and wiped it off. Her dimples formed on her cheeks and he fought the impulse to reach down and kiss them both. He was utterly lost. He took a deep breath and forced his concentration away from kissing her. He straightened and walked briskly, likely dragging her, but he needed some time to cool down and clear his head. One more day, then his head would be clearer than he wanted.

Chapter Five

    How could she have forgotten herself for so long? A day that had been magical was how. She shook her head as she placed her bonnet on the table and ran in to check on her mother. The Dowager and Mr. Abbott quickly excused themselves and left, and Gwen set about tending to her