“LORD WILLIAMS, A DELIVERY.”

Gretchen's gaze followed Jacob who handed a white envelope to Ethan, her curiosity piqued.

“Thank you, Jacob.” Ethan took the envelope and placed it on the table, before focusing his attention on the evening meal before him.

Her gaze remained on the white envelop throughout dinner, momentarily shifting to Ellie when she thought the baby needed another mouthful of food. The moment dinner was over and she had managed to put Ellie to bed, she practically raced down the stairs to the parlor which had become their rendezvous spot.

She arrived at the parlor to find Ethan sitting there, looking mighty handsome in his tailored suit. He was always so proper and all through the months that Gretchen had spent in his house, she had never seen him wearing anything casual. Gretchen on the other hand, had on a green night coat.

“Miss Riverside,” he rose to his feet as she approached.

“Oh please, call me Gretchen.” She teased, loosening her hair of its bond atop her head and giving it a sassy shake.

He offered her a smile but didn't say anything else before stretching his hand to her. Giggling, she took his offered hand and allowed him lead her to the couch.

“We were supposed to go for a walk.” She reached forward, pushing aside a strand of his black locks that had fallen to his forehead.

He appeared uncomfortable but simply nodded his head and rose to his feet. He held out a hand to her, and once she placed her hand in his, he helped her to her feet. She stood before his tall frame, her petite figure falling short at his chest.

With her hand tucked in the crook of his arm, they began taking a walk. The night air played with her hair, tossing it back and forth behind her and filling her with a feeling of contentment. She liked how closely they were walking beside each other, and the beautiful weather made for such a romantic night.

Leaning to the side, her head came to rest on his shoulder, and a soft sigh of contentment escaped her lips. Secretly, she dreamed about being his wife, of spending evenings like this wrapped in his arms, and rested upon his bed.

She blushed, peaking up at him to see if he had any inkling of what she was thinking. Surely he would be embarrassed if he knew, she smiled. He was always the gentleman. He was a gentleman respected and loved by society. She knew because he always got invited to social events, even if he never attended.

Was that what the envelope at dinner was about? She imagined it was, but curiosity made her lean further against him and ask, “So, what was the mysterious delivery all about at dinner?” She asked.

“Pardon?” He slowed his steps, turning briefly to glance at her with those wickedly breathtaking eyes. She imagined staring into them every night before she slept, and waking up to them every morning. Her body warmed at the thought, and she glanced down.