Loving Madison

Eighteen

Cameron peered toward the candle, trying to see the shadowy figure behind it. He'd been in his bed chambers when he'd heard odd noises from the attic. But never in his life had he expected to find Madison roaming around.

She expelled a gush of air. "Cameron? What are you doing up here?"

"Madison? Is that really you?" He stepped closer, still not believing his eyes. "What in the blazes... I came up here to investigate when I heard noises. I didn't think a mouse could have such a heavy step."

She rolled her eyes. "It's just me. I came up here because Alice remembered seeing Rosie leaving the attic the day before she disappeared."

Her statement took him off guard and he belted out a sarcastic laugh. "Rosie? Up here? Impossible."

"That's why I'm here...hoping to get a vision."

He noticed a spider web strand caught in her hair, and without asking, plucked it out. "Has it worked?"

"Not yet."

She watched his hand as he shook off the web. Now that his eyes had adjusted, he noticed the lovely gown she wore. The lavender color complimented her dark brown hair that flowed perfectly over her shoulders. Although he still couldn't see the color of her eyes, he was certain they were alight with wonder right now.

As his gaze wandered down her body, he noticed the lower cut bodice that showed a hint of her ample bosom. The dress fit snug against her chest and thin waist. Long sleeves hung loose on her arms, gathering at the wrists. His mouth dried and he forced his gaze back to her eyes, but it was extremely difficult.

"I was thinking about checking the other room." She motioned her head to the north of them.

"Oh, yes. Let me help you." He held out his hand.

"Oh, don't be silly. I'm sure I can find the way by myself."

He reached for the candle, and at the same time, she jerked it away. The quick motion tilted the candle off the holder. As it fell to the ground, the flame blew out. Darkness surrounded them.

"Oh, dear." Her voice rose in panic.

"Don't worry," he answered. "I'll find it."

Cameron's eyes adjusted slowly. He knelt to the floor, searching for the candle. Unintentionally, he brushed by her booted feet, bumping his hand against her ankle. She hitched a breath and dropped to her knees—probably to assist him so he wouldn't touch her feet again. Instead, their fingers met.

On instinct, he took her hand into his. Slowly, the small amount of light from the other room crept their way, and through the shadows, she lifted her head to look at him. He couldn't quite see her eyes, but she was so close, her warm breath blew against his face. She smelled like she'd been eating berries...and honey. It was all he could do not to lean a few inches forward and cover her mouth with his. But he resisted, as difficult as it was.

She didn't move, and neither did he. By the way her breath fanned his face, he knew she was breathing heavily. Remarkably, so was he. He grinned. Was she as interested in him as he was in her?

Falling victim to temptation, he lifted his other hand and grasped a lock of her hair. Slowly, he rubbed it between his finger and thumb. Indeed, it was as soft as it had looked. The urge grew, and he wanted to rub her hair against his cheek. She gulped loudly, and he copied the action.

"Cam-Cameron? I...I...think—"

His vision began to adjust, and her face became a little clearer. He was certain she could see him just as well because her gaze dropped to his mouth. His heart flipped with anticipation. Kissing her now would be the perfect time. They were alone and so close...and he'd never felt the urge stronger than at this moment.