Season's Feather

Chapter Thirty-Six

Delilah went to study later to find Anthony. She walked over and smoothed her palms over his shoulders. She missed him today. They were not normally apart at events. At least not anymore. She had grown used to him being there, and while she loved being with all of the ladies - especially Daphne - she loved Anthony, and her place next to him felt the most comfortable.

"How did it go?" She asked, "Tell me everything."

Anthony sighed leaning back in his chair, he looked up at Delilah, "We did not successfully shoot anything. Perhaps if we listened to Miss Sharma-"

"Anthony, my dear. You know I do care about the hunt. How was it between Kate and Williamson?"

Anthony smiled at her, "Oh, you gossip. Well, Kate disappeared to her own hunt and Williamson departed briefly to find her. It went well, I think."

Delilah tilted her head, "Do you think he finally realized he is madly in love with her?"

Anthony laughed, pulling her into his lap, "My love, do you know how long it took me to realize I loved you, let alone liked you."

"Do enlighten me."

"Years," Anthony said, "Years and a letter threatening your arranged marriage that I acted on what I felt."

Delilah smiled at him, "Well, if it took you that long then make it up to me by being my escort to the ball."

Anthony pressed a kiss to her lips. He hummed as she drew back, but he quickly pulled her in for another one. He didn't let go until she laughed at his constant draw-backs.

"Anthony-"

"What?" He asked, "Let me show the woman I love affection. You will starve me if I cannot have your company."

Delilah shook her head, "Well, who am I to deny a fasting man?"

She had not realized the time though. Soon it was near midnight. Delilah and Anthony were still awake together. Still talking, stealing kisses. They had changed into nightwear and were just enjoying each other's company. They had moved to the library where there were more candles. Now they sat in separate chairs surrounded in warmth and greeted with the outside rain.

"Can you not sleep?" Anthony asked.

Delilah smiled, "I have energy whenever I am with you. And, the storm. I have always found them unsettling."

Anthony looked at her curiously.

"My father would read to me during thunderstorms. When he passed, mama would. Now, storms make me think of them both."

Anthony took her hand and brought her to the window. It wasn't theirs, but it was one that had the same view. He brought his hands around her waist, and pulled her back into his chest. He rested his head in her neck.

"This is my fathers library." He whispered, "These were some of his most treasured possessions."

Delilah hummed quietly. Remembering that day. It seemed not yesterday they were both children experiencing great loss.

"I am sorry-"

"To see a great man felled by such a small creature. Then to see his friend collapse in pain beside him. All because of such a damned small creature. You do not have to be sorry, Delilah, you felt just as much pain as I did."

"It was," Delilah said, "It was in the least humbling."

Delilah turned in his arms. He was so close. That string tugged in her stomach. Then it blossomed into a feeling lower. Her breath quickened and Anthony's eyes darkened. He leaned forward just slightly-

BOOM!

They split. Both breathing heavily. Delilah looked at him before smiling and kissing his cheek. She whispered goodnight before running out of the room.

Anthony watched her go with a smirk.