Val pocketed the key, and as he arranged for a meal and a bath to be brought, Myrtle ventured deeper into the space with Horace following in along with her. A warm fire raged, and Horace immediately trotted over to the hearth and paced himself a path in that narrow area before settling onto the floor.

Myrtle took in the room. It was not as small as she’d expected, but yet still modest enough that the bed, the biggest piece of furniture present, commanded the space.

Perhaps the size isn’t what’s got you focused on it, a voice taunted. Nay, it wasn’t the sole reason her eyes went to that piece.

It was not grand like the Venetian St. Mother of Pearl headboard and frame she slept in at home.

It was a simple, functional piece designed of pine, with no embellishments and even less frill. Nothing but the mattress and white coverlets upon it.

Rather . . . it was the fact that she’d share that bed with Val. They’d sleep there together. Her body warmed and her cheeks fired hot at the wicked thoughts turning in her head.

Memories of his embrace filled her mind, swelling the way a symphony did just before a production commenced.

Every part of her had burned hot from his kiss, and the feel of his hands, powerful and hard, but gentle at the same time, too, upon her hips. But then he’d stopped, and she’d been left with only the whisper of wonder at what came after.

And she wanted that.

She wanted—

“Myrtle?”

She whipped around. “Hmm?”

Val stared concernedly back . . . as did the innkeeper.

Both men looked at her.

And she looked at them.

Oh, drat. An answer was expected of her. They’d put a question to her, but she’d been so lost in her improper thoughts she had no idea what they had said.

“That would be lovely,” she blurted.

Gus’s brow dipped, and the ghost of a smile danced at the corners of Val’s lips. “You heard the lady. I will have my belongings sent to the stables.”

He’d have his belongings sent . . . ?

“No!” she exclaimed.

Gus wrung his hands together. “I’m sorry. I’ve not another room. The gentleman offered to head to the stables and spend the night.” So that was the important piece she’d missed. Splendid. “But I could see that it is turned out comfortable enough.” Her panic spiraled. Val would go, and she’d be here alone, not having even this one night with him. “There is a cot—”