Secrets Of The Heart

Chapter 4. Apologies and Embraces

Chapter 4. Apologies and Embraces
Peter's Chambers
Grand Palace, London
December 27th, 1886
Everett

I've waited, longingly staring at the door, bewildered as to why she hasn't showed. Surely she must feel something towards me, surely it wasn't a lie. In the little time I've known her, she has me utterly captivated by her. Everything about her has me silently falling in love. Her presence, thick and sweet, holding me in place. Her curious gaze that can see to your soul. Her purity can clean the impure. Her small, petite body that can make you lose your confidence. That cherry lipped smile, the one that crinkles her eyes and lights up the dark. She has me in awe of her!

Still, I sit in my bedroom, anticipating her gentle knock on the door. Yet, as the minutes tick by, it doesn't come. Instead, I'm left with shattered hope and a shrivelled demeanor.

Until, the knock I've desired sounds on the door. My nerves kick in and my breath hitches. As I edge closer to the red wood door, the smell of her dangles before my nose. It's a sweet scent, like vanilla and coconuts. The oddest yet most alluring scent I have smelled. I inhale deeply, her fragrance relaxing my tense shoulders.

"I knew you'd come seeking my company eventually." I smirk at her as I open the door. She rolls her eyes but I see a hint of a grin fall upon her lips.

"Actually, I came here to apologize. Truly, you deserved honesty. After all, you had already been so open about yourself. I profusely apologize, Peter." She bites her lip in the most endearing way. Something about her silly apology has my heart feeling full of overwhelming emotions I've yet to uncover. I step out of her way and open the door, letting her know to come in. She hesitates for a brief moment before entering. Gooseflesh erupts across my covered arms at the thought of being alone with her in my chambers. Such a scandal.

"Apologies are not needed, Arabelle Jean." I love the way her Christian name falls off my lips. A small smile plays on my lips. "I must apologize for my behavior, I shouldn't have pushed you to tell me your secrets when I haven't told you mine. In addition, I would've visited you sooner, if you wished, had my father not kept me so busy." I lie. No need to tell her I was desperately waiting for her to come to me.

"Well, that settled itself rather quickly. If you're busy then, I shall show myself out. Thank you, Peter." I move myself from the door to let her open it, only before closing it myself. Her back is facing me, my chest almost against it. She slowly turns around, pressing against the door.

"Don't leave." I whisper lightly. I can hear her swallow hard and draw in a shaky breath. I would be lying myself if I said the close proximity isn't making me all sorts of crazy. I certainly adore the way I tower over her small figure.

"You're awfully close, Peter." I bite my lip to hide my smirk. The affect I have on her is incredible. I don't believe I've ever felt anything like this. Not that I've had anything like this before. These blooming feelings make me uneasy and uncertain, two things I hate. Although, the feelings are for her. I'd do anything if it meant I could keep her. As long as she wished to keep me.

"Does that bother you?" I tease. She dares herself to meet my eyes, the brown of her eyes appearing almost black in this dark room. She merely shakes her head, confirming she is enjoying the moment as much as me. An almost evil idea  sprouts in my mind. Control would be key if I were to do this.

I slowly trail my fingers up hers, her soft skin against mine. I trace my way slowly up her bare arm, gooseflesh bubbling across her delicate skin. I curve my fingers up her shoulder to her neck, trailing down her back in the most delightful manner, until settling my hand on her hip. She shivers against my body, shaking in such a way I almost lose control. Almost.