Boudoir Secrets

Chapter 63

Arianrhod let her fingers gently brush over the dresser as she pulled on her garments. Things were not going to plan but she didn't mind. The whole day had been spent in bed making love to James and she was ok with that. He had helped her bath and groom, then he had carried her naked through the hallways to his room. She giggled as she recalled the emotionless faces of the help. Either it was a common occurrence or they were well trained. Nothing seemed to bother or surprise them.

James stirred from his slumber and raised himself on his elbows.

"So what now?"

She shuddered and looked at him, seating herself on the edge of the bed.

"What were you expecting when you brought me here?"

James sat up properly and rubbed his eyes.

"I'll be honest. I wanted to see you dead. I hated you for what you did to me."

Arianrhod hung her head in shame but she understood the sentiment.

"I am sorry."

"I know."

An uncomfortable silence hung between them as they each reflected on the past.

"I thought you a half-wit. Stupidly, I had assumed that you were an imbecile."

"I know."

James reached out and grabbed her hand.

"I let you believe those things then got angry because you didn't treat me with respect."

"The only reason I didn't want you was because I had assumed you were my intellectual inferior."

Tears streamed down her cheeks and James pulled her to him, his lips covering hers. The saltiness of her tears formed a lump in his throat.

She pulled away and asked, "Can we start again? Can we start 'us' from today?"

He nodded and kissed her again in agreement.

Arianrhod pulled away again.

"Where does that leave us with our plan?"

"I think we need to revise it but not abandon it."

She smiled.

"I have to go. My father will be wondering where I am."

"Henry had brought your car here. You can leave whenever you like."

"Can I come whenever I like too?"

He laughed and shook his head.

"Let's take it slow."

Arianrhod lent down and planted a kiss on the top of his head.

"I'll call you."

This time she meant it.