Eric led her back down the aisle and to the awaiting carriage. He held onto her tightly, more tightly than she thought necessary as they rode back to Lexington Hall. His scent was truly intoxicating to her. She could feel the tension in his body and studied his face. Eva could read nothing of what he was thinking. As they approached Lexington Hall, before he could exit the carriage, she pulled his face to her and she tentatively kissed him. He seemed surprised by her action, but he brought his fingers to her chin, tipped her head back a little farther, and kissed her gently. She was somewhat disappointed, her body was clamoring for a more thorough possession of her mouth. He seemed to notice her reaction and whispered to her. “There will be time enough for what you seek tonight, my eager little wife.”
Their families were not far behind. Dinner was quiet considering the occasion they were celebrating. Eva had to remember it was money that brought her into this marriage not love. After dinner the ladies retired to the drawing room, except her. Mary was awaiting to escort her to her chamber. As she ascended the stairs she looked back and saw that her Uncle and Eric were entering the library for Brandy and a cigar no doubt, but she was pleased to see Eric had paused at the doorway to watch her. Their eyes met and she smiled at him. He returned with a grin, but she had yet to receive the open easy smile she saw him give the girl in town weeks ago. She turned away and continued to follow Mary. She needed to give him time. Mary had made the room look so romantic. Candles were everywhere, the room was aglow with flickering candlelight. Rose petals were floating in the water basin and lying on the bed. The beautiful gown she had chosen especially for tonight was laid out neatly on the bed for her. Mary helped her undress and put on her gown which was quite transparent in the candlelight she realized. They undid all the pins in her hair and Mary combed it out for her. Mary stayed with her until they heard Eric enter his room next door.
“I am going to go now my sweet. He will take good care of you tonight.” Mary kissed her forehead and left the room.
Eva could here the muffled voices of Eric and Lowell for a few moments. Then all went quiet for what seemed like an eternity. When he finally knocked on the connecting door she curiously found she felt no fear or apprehension. She wanted him, more than she had ever wanted anything and she could not wait for his complete possession of her.
“Come in.”
When Eric entered he still had on his breeches and shirt from the ceremony, but was barefooted and his shirt was nearly half way unbuttoned. His hair that had been slicked back was now loose and he looked magnificent.
Tags: Historical, Love, Marriage, Romance
