“Not at all. Last night was perfect. I couldn’t have dreamed of anything more. I think I was meant to wait for you.”

She stiffened briefly, and he wondered what he’d said to trouble her. “This is a temporary affair, Gregory.” She spoke slowly, quietly.

“I know.” Even though it made him sad. He would take what he could. She was worth any time they had together—and the heartache he would suffer when it was over. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I confess I would be quite happy to extend our time together past what you originally discussed. I am incredibly grateful for this connection we’ve made, for however long it lasts.”

A look of mild amusement passed over her features. “Are you always so optimistic?”

“Usually, yes. My mother used to call me Sir Cheerful.”

Evie giggled. “Sir Cheerful. My goodness, but that is sweet. You must miss her.”

“I do. What of your parents? You’ve never mentioned them.”

“I don’t remember my father at all. He died when I was very young. My memories of my mother are vague. I know she loved me.” She tipped her head toward his chest. “But she was sad after losing my father.”

Gregory held her closer. “I’m sorry to hear that. How did you manage after losing your parents so young?”

“Family cared for us.”

He wanted to know more, but wouldn’t press. He sensed she didn’t like to discuss her family too deeply. “My father was devastated when my mother died. It gives me peace to know they are together now.”

“Yes, I think you simply must find the best view of everything,” she murmured. “What a charming attribute, Sir Cheerful.” She kissed the hollow at the base of his throat, and he went instantly hard. Not that it had taken much, for he’d been in a state of half arousal since returning to the bed with her. She seemed to notice, because her brows arched. “Perhaps I should call you Sir Ready.”

“It’s still the middle of the night,” he said. “We should go back to sleep.”

Her hand moved down over his backside, then over his hip to caress his cock. “Why? We’re here, and it would be a shame to let this go to waste.” Her eyes narrowed seductively, and he was lost.

He kissed her, pressing her back into the mattress as she stroked him. She nipped at his lip, then kissed him again and again, short, sensual kisses that enflamed his desire. He followed her lead, using his teeth and tongue to explore her mouth. She gripped his nape with her other hand, holding him fast.