Another excerpt from The Governess:

Chapter 4

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Wonderful, delicious smells assaulted the hungry governess’s senses, but she stood frozen unable to bring herself forward.  Though the room was warm, she felt ice cold.  Still reeling with the frightening information that Millesant had just disclosed to her about her new master, she finally spotted the feared Lord Huntington as he slowly stood, filling the well-lit room with his intimidating presence. 

All was silent except for the crackling fire. 

They stood looking at each other momentarily taking each other in before he held her chair out for her to be seated next to him. 

Shivering slightly, she made her way towards him noticing his nearly black hair that curled slightly at the ends, apparently still damp from bathing, touching his crisp white collar, which contrasted greatly with his tanned skin.  Obviously this gentleman spent time outdoors, unlike most men of his station. 

She approved. 

Nicely chiseled features and strong jaw looked freshly shaven.  Uncertain as to the color of his eyes, they were, nevertheless, penetrating and dark.  Impeccably dressed with burgundy dinner jacket, biscuit colored trousers and polished boots, she thought he must be the epitome of masculinity, although somewhat impenetrable.  Her breath quickened as she became aware of the obvious characteristics of this gentleman that made her so conscious of him; his handsome face, the broadness of his chest, shoulders, and arms through his nicely cut jacket; tight pants that covered solid legs that stood apart in a stance of superior authority. 

As she drew closer to him in this better lit space than the Study from this morning, she hardly noticed the lovely, light green room and immense table, for this man loomed above her, stealing all attention from anything else.  He bowed in a courtly manner while she curtseyed pleasingly.  As she sat down elegantly, he expertly scooted her in.  Carly nervously put her hands into her lap and sat straight as she could, shoulders back, the way her mother had taught her.   

By outward appearances, the young governess looked calm and confident, but Creighton knew she was scared to be here in his presence.  However, he could not believe the transformation in her. 

What a beauty she was! 

Unable to take his eyes from her, he noticed her gown was simply gorgeous but could also tell that she was outgrowing it.  Well-endowed with provocative curves, a woman most definitely sat here before him.

Certainly she would make a fine acquisition.