Total pages in book: 87
Estimated words: 83053 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 415(@200wpm)___ 332(@250wpm)___ 277(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 83053 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 415(@200wpm)___ 332(@250wpm)___ 277(@300wpm)
“But Donovan,” Nigel said, setting his empty glass down and meeting his friend’s gaze with an intensity that mirrored his own. “We must establish some ground rules. We are entering uncharted waters here and we must be cautious.”
“Of course,” Donovan agreed, leaning back in his chair as the two of them began to discuss the unusual arrangement they were willing to undertake for Lady Portia’s sake. They talked late into the evening, navigating this new terrain and establishing boundaries they would make sure to respect.
Episode Eight
In Which Portia Receives Two Visitors in Her Chambers
The following evening saw Donovan and Nigel standing outside Lady Portia’s chambers. They exchanged a brief uncertain look before Donovan knocked on her door. It was a strange situation to find themselves in, but they both agreed that Portia was worth the discomfort.
Portia opened the door with wide eyes that transitioned into delight when she saw who her visitors were. “Gentlemen.” She stepped aside to welcome them in. “I didn’t expect you both at once. How on earth did you get past Uncle Reggie and Aunt Bea?”
“We simply gave the servants on duty a few quid and were able to pass unnoticed.” Donovan gave her a rueful smile as he entered, followed closely by Nigel. “We thought it best to discuss our mutual interests together.”
A rush of excitement surged through Portia at Donovan’s words. She had dared to voice her most intimate desire but never truly believed it would come to fruition.
Of course, she must remember that her primary objective was to find a husband. Not two husbands. Neither of these men would consider her marriage material now.
But why not have fun in the interim?
With that thought ringing in her mind, she turned to face her guests with a slight smile. “I see.” She moved toward the table near the fireplace and poured three glasses of wine. She handed a glass to each man before holding up hers for a toast. “To mutual interests,” she said, her voice filled with amusement.
They clinked glasses, and she continued, “I must admit, this is an unexpected turn of events. I wasn’t sure how either of you would react.”
Donovan grinned at her, his gaze warm. “Well, Lady Portia, you have a way of making men do unexpected things.”
Nigel chuckled lightly at his comment. “Indeed,” he agreed, before taking a long sip of his wine.
The atmosphere was light and cordial as they chatted about trivial matters. However, underneath the laughter and pleasant conversation swirled an undercurrent of anticipation.
After they finished their drinks, Donovan cleared his throat, placing his glass on the side table. “To the matter at hand,” he began, his eyes serious and focused.
Nigel shot him a discerning look but then nodded.
Portia shivered with excitement as she set her own glass next to Donovan’s. She turned toward the men with a slightly raised eyebrow.
Donovan began, “We’ve given your proposition a considerable amount of thought.” He cast a sideways glance at Nigel, who gave him a curt nod. “We’ve agreed, under certain terms and conditions.”
Portia blinked in surprise before her lips curled into an appreciative smile. “Is that so? And what might these conditions be?”
Nigel stepped forward then, taking over from Donovan. “Firstly, this must remain utterly secret. No one must learn of our arrangement.”
“Of course.” Portia nodded. She had no intention of her personal life becoming fodder for societal gossip.
“Secondly,” Nigel continued, “we must be respectful of each other’s feelings and desires. If at any point one of us wishes to withdraw from this arrangement, we do so without arguments or repercussions.”
Portia was slightly taken aback by the solemnity in his voice but nodded again. While this arrangement would be unconventional, she wanted it to be between equals, where each party felt comfortable and heard.
Donovan took up the reins again as he moved closer to her. “Lastly,” he said with an intense look in his eyes, “Any eventualities arising from this agreement—misunderstandings, disputes—they stay only between us. We must promise to handle them among ourselves.”
Portia looked from Donovan to Nigel and back again, feeling a rush of gratitude for their understanding and foresight. She extended her hand palm down on the table before them. “Agreed. I will respect these terms. Now, I should like to be kissed. By both of you. I shall compare your technique.”
Donovan moved in first, his approach unhurried. He cupped her face in his hands, his touch warm and gentle, and before long, his lips met hers in a tender yet passionate kiss.
When he pulled away, Nigel was there, taking his place without missing a beat. His kiss was a stark contrast to Donovan’s—firm and insistent, leaving her breathless by the time he drew back.
Portia closed her eyes for a moment as she savored the lingering taste of them both on her lips. Once she regained her composure, she opened her eyes to find the men watching her with bated breath.