The American and the Duke

Chapter 9 Rowan

I left Katerina in the stables. Though every fiber in my body was telling me not to. All I wanted to do was take her back to my home, and lock her in my room for the rest of time. My dreams did not compare to her in reality. The feeling of her body shaking under mine. Her moans of pleasure as I felt her hot core tighten around my fingers. It took all my self control not to take her right there and then. To feel her hot woman’s core around my manhood. But she was not like any other woman, not like the ones who threw themselves at me. And those who so easily spent the night having lusty sex. I wanted more with her, and I never thought it was possible. I needed to do right by her. If I had it my way, we would be announcing our engagement tomorrow. But she needed more time. And I would give her time. I would wait until the end of time for her. 

When I arrived at the club, I saw James sitting by the fireplace alone. A brandy glass close to his lips. I walked over and touched his shoulder. He looked up and gave me a small smile. I sat down next to him. His uncle and Mr. Hudson were no where to be found. They may have decided to remain home. I knew that Mr. Hudson often worked late.

“Rowan, I trust my sister is back at home safely,” James said sternly. But his eyes were teasing. I smiled sitting in a chair next to him, as a servant walked over and handed me a brandy. I took a sip. I could smell the cigar smoke around me. Many men around us were huddled together talking and laughing in this smoke filled room.

“Yes, we had a lovely time this afternoon. She really does love to ride. Though I am sure that London will be filled with talk of her attire. No woman has ever worn such a thing here,” I said. He laughed at that comment. And we both took another sip. 

“There is something I must confess to you,” I started. But James only held his hand up. Did he already know? Know what my true intentions were for Katerina. My father if he had not died already, would surely would have heart attack. Knowing that his one and only son wanted to marry an American.

“If this is about the kiss you shared between you and my sister. I already know. I overheard her and Talia today. My sister does not speak very softly,” James said, chuckling. I felt the back of my neck go red. Clearly Katerina had some feelings toward me. I just needed to know what she was feeling.

“Then you know that I am serious about her. I know it has been a short time. But your sister is someone I could see spending my life with. And when she is ready, I want to propose,” I said. He met my gaze. All humor leaves his bright eyes. 

“Yes, and you must know that I will do anything for my sister. I will guard and protect her, but this is her decision. She will choose her own husband. And she will do it in her own time. So have patience, that is my advice,” James replied. I hoped that calling on her often would make her realize my intentions sooner.

“I would expect nothing less from the Malcolms. In the little time I have known you both, you are both very stubborn and know your own minds, though I am sure that both you and your father would approve of the match,” I said. My tone curious, and probing. I knew that their father was a hot blooded American. A proud veteran of the Revolution. Would he truly approve of a match between his daughter and a noble Englishman?

“My father and I want my sister to be happy, and she can only decide what makes her happy. But yes my father and I would approve. You are someone who could make her happy,” James replied. We both chuckled, and then James' brow furrowed. Something clearly bothered him.

“Something is troubling you my friend, you look as if the devil has come to your door,” I asked. He met my gaze, and he had anger in his eyes. There was something that was bothering him. And I was determined to find out why. Had something happened why Katerina and I were away.