by Josie Dennis
Robert withdrew then turned Jared’s face to his. Their kiss was sweet, and nothing like Jared expected after what they’d just shared.
“I can’t believe I’ve never done that before,” Robert said.
Jared found his smile and turned fully to face him. “I know you’ve been with men, Robert.”
“But never with someone I’ve known, Jared. Never with a friend.”
Jared felt a glow from his words that had nothing to do with their still-naked bodies so close to each other. “It was amazing, but…” He shook his head. “Never mind.”
Robert tilted his head. The motion made his thick, dark hair fall over his brow. He was beautiful standing there, and Jared needed a few moments to choose his words. He grabbed up his trousers and pulled them on, tucking himself inside as Robert took his cue and did likewise.
“What were you going to say, Jared?” Robert asked.
Jared grabbed his glass of brandy and downed it. “What we shared, Robert. As earth-shattering as it was, I still feel like something was missing.”
Robert gave a slow nod. “Someone, you mean.”
Jared sat on the couch and raked his fingers through his hair. “When you reached around to hold me, I couldn’t help but imagine Rose’s hand. Her mouth closed around me.”
Robert blew out a breath. “That would have been a slight. I’d love to watch you with her, Jared. I’m sorry I’ll never get that chance.”
They fell into a friendly sort of quiet then, both staring into the flames as they drank more brandy. Robert had seemed sad then, after their release, and sad that he wouldn’t get to see Jared with Rose. Ah, Rose. Jared still wanted her. Wanted her and Robert both. He had to try to convince her of just how perfect the three of them could be together.
Because just the thought of Robert loving Rose made him want the both of them even more.
Chapter 6
Robert stood near his door, peering out into the hall as he waited for Rose to walk toward his room. He’d caught her sweet scent this morning as he’d exited and, after smelling her roses over the past few days he reasoned that she had to pass this way coming from the countess’s room on her way toward the stairs to the kitchens. Now that it neared the dinner hour he knew she’d be assisting Lady Hawksfell before the family dined. It was precisely the time to approach her. He wouldn’t waste the opportunity.
The time he’d spent with Jared two nights ago had changed the way he viewed his passions. He’d found a friend in the chauffeur and when the man had spoken of Rose he’d seen the longing on his face. Jared might tease and flirt but he had real feelings for the pretty maid. And for the first time in his life, Robert cared about making someone happy.
He heard light footfalls and watched as Rose walked toward him. Her head was down as she smoothed a hand over the small stack of clothing she held. Opening his door wide, he stepped directly into her path.
“Good evening, Rose.”
She gasped and stared up at him as she had in the carriage house. Had that been nearly a week ago already?
Her eyes were wide and her full lips parted. “Lord Waltham!”
He smiled down at her, coming so close their bodies almost touched. “You’ve been naughty, I’ve heard.”
Her smooth cheeks colored. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Catching a bit of her brogue, he chuckled. “Jared was correct. Your accent is more pronounced when you’re…aroused.”
She craned her neck to look behind her then faced him again. “The countess might see me.”
“Then come in my room.”
She nodded and followed him inside. As he closed the door, he saw she’d gathered her defenses. “I’m not a plaything, Lord Waltham.”
“Robert, please.”
She gave a shake of her head. “I can’t call you such. You’re a Hawk!”
“Jared calls me by my name, Rose. I call you by yours. Won’t you grant me this boon?”
She opened her mouth to protest again then closed it with a snap. Narrowing her eyes, she placed a hand on one hip. “You’ve been spending too much time with that teasing Morrissey. That’s for certain.”
A shiver of desire passed through him and he didn’t fight it. “I have. And we’ve grown quite close.”
“In each other’s pockets then?” She covered her mouth with her hand now, her eyes wide. Lowering her hand, she sighed. “Forgive me, my lord. My mouth gets away from me.”
He couldn’t help reaching out to touch her full bottom lip. “I’ve heard this mouth can do more than that.” Her tongue brushed against his thumb and he groaned. “You can’t know what you do to a man, can you? Jared told me you’re pure.”
“I am.” The corners of her mouth turned down a bit. “But after what Jared told me of what you two discussed? Oh, I should be scandalized, but I admit I’m not.”
He stroked her cheek then ran his fingers down the side of her neck. He could feel her pulse fluttering through her delicate skin. “You’re puzzled, aren’t you?” He snaked an arm around her slender waist. “Interested, even?”
She closed her eyes, dropping her stack of clothing to the floor. Her hands dangled at her sides and she swayed toward him. “Jared said there was more we can share, but I shouldn’t think of such things.”
Robert continued to stroke her skin and he knew she responded. Jared was right. She was built for loving, and he wanted to love her with Jared.
“We can be very careful, Rose.” He brought his face to her neck and breathed in. “I’ve never made a child with a woman.”
Her eyes snapped open. “How is that possible? It’s said that Hawks are virile.”
He chuckled again, teasing her ear with his tongue. “Oh, we are. There are tricks, you see.” He grasped her hips and pulled her toward him, biting back a groan as her belly pressed against his cock. “Ways to avoid the consequences you fear so much.”
“Tricks?” She purred against him. “Oh, you make me feel like Jared does.”
“How is that?”
She took in a shaky breath. “Like I have a fever. Hot and cold and shivering.”
“Then let me comfort you.”
She pushed at him, her eyes hot on his face even as she stepped away. “I can’t.”
“You can. Tell me, Rose. Tell me what you want.”
Her pupils dilated and he knew she was fully aroused. “Kisses,” she whispered. “Kisses and more of what Jared did.”
He came closer and this time she didn’t back away. “Tell me what Jared did.”
Her hand stole up to her throat and she ran it over her skin. She was flushed now, inching a hand down toward her breasts. "He touched me and loved me.”
“With his hands?”
She nodded, licking her lips.
“And his mouth?”
“Yes. On my…” She touched her breast and dropped her hand. “He kissed me.”
Robert had to taste her lips now. He’d relished Jared’s kisses. Now he needed hers. “Let me kiss you.”
She gave an almost imperceptible nod and he brought his lips to hers. She was as sweet as her scent, and he didn’t hold back his moan. When her arms wrapped around his neck, he let his beast surge forth.
“Rose,” he murmured, licking her neck as he eased the shoulder of her blouse down to reveal more delectable skin. “I want to kiss you everywhere.”
She ran her fingers through his hair as he unbuttoned her blouse and opened it. A tug of her stays and her nipples strained toward his questing fingers. Pretty pink nipples that begged for his mouth. Grabbing her to him, he fastened his mouth over her flesh and suckled.
“Robert!”
He paused long enough to smile up at her. “That’s it.”
Turning, he placed her on the edge of his bed and feasted. He’d never taken his time with a woman. He would with her, though. Show her that passion could be had. Ready her for Jared when the three of them began their inevitable liaison. For it was inevitable. He wanted her
as much as he wanted Jared. Her. Not some nameless maid in his employ.
“Let me kiss you,” he said, lifting her skirts as she settled back against the counterpane. Her legs fell open to his touch. “You came like this, didn’t you?”
“Yes,” she sighed. “Jared touched me as he kissed me.”
Her drawers were damp and her scent was stronger here. His mouth watered and he pulled off her drawers.
“My lord!” She came up on her elbows. “What are you about?”
He stroked the silken skin of her inner thighs and spread her with both his hands. “Robert, please.”
“R–robert, then. What are you doing?”
He dropped a kiss on her belly then stared up at her. “I’m going to kiss you.”
She blinked at him. Lowering his head, he buried his face in her cunt.
“So soft,” he rasped, taking in a breath of her essence. He flicked his tongue over her flesh. “So sweet.”
“You can’t mean to kiss me there!”
“On your pussy? Ah, indeed I do.”
She gasped again but then he was there. Licking and sucking as he slid a finger between her folds. There was a barrier there, so he curled his finger and gave her his knuckle. Her taste surrounded him. Sweet and hot and wet as he licked her. Teasing her clit with his thumb, he glanced up to find her awash in pleasure. Flushed and restless and pliant. He took his time, relishing every moan and quiver she gave as she rose toward climax.
“Oh, my!” She began to shake, clutching at the linens beneath her. “I’m coming!”
She did so, crying out as she arched against his tongue. He held her in place, wringing every last bit of pleasure out of her.
Rising at last, he stared down at her pink and glistening pussy. His cock was so hard now he could scarcely contain himself.
“I’m aching, Rose.”
She leaned up on her elbows and studied his groin. “You’re very large. Jared told me.”
He barked out a laugh and freed himself. “I can’t please myself. Not alone.”
She licked her lips and he wanted to bury himself in her mouth. To his astonishment, she stretched out on the bed again. “Take me, Robert. Show me just how you can keep me safe.”
He had to have her. Right now. He and Jared hadn’t discussed this occurrence but neither of them would have believed she’d consent. She must be dazzled by her orgasm and not thinking clearly.
“Are you certain?” he had to know.
“I want to know you, Robert. I want to feel you.”
He wouldn’t wait another moment. Easing toward her, he placed the head of his cock against her pussy. He wanted to fuck her hard and fast but knew she was untried. It wouldn’t do to have her fear what could be amazing for the three of them once her virginity was a memory and she knew what they could share.
“I’ll keep you safe, Rose.”
She nodded, letting out a whimper as his head pushed through her folds. “All of you. Please, Robert.”
He pushed past her maidenhead and held himself still long enough for her to accustom herself. “Am I hurting you?”
She shook her head. “Not really. I want to move. Can I move?”
If she started to move he might forget just what he had to do to keep her safe. “Just feel, love.”
She bit her lip and nodded, and he started to move. She was so tight and wet he thought he’d die from the pleasure. Bracing his hands on either side of her, he brought his face to hers and kissed her open mouth.
“You’re so beautiful,” he said. “You feel so good.”
She closed her eyes and arched toward him. He quickened his pace, driving in and out of her now as his orgasm threatened. Thankfully she soon peaked, sobbing as she came around him. For a moment he nearly lost himself. Then he withdrew with a groan and spilled his seed on her belly.
Taking in great gulps of air, Robert fell onto the bed beside her. After some time, he couldn’t judge how long, he opened his eyes to find her staring at him.
“That was amazing,” she said softly. “I never thought you would fit.”
He stroked her cheek as he had earlier. “Then why the devil did you ask me to take you?”
“I wanted to feel you.” Her cheeks flushed rosy pink. “I wanted to feel Jared but I wasn’t sure.”
He leaned up on one elbow. “And now? Do you still want Jared?”
She swallowed audibly then nodded. “I know that makes me a wanton.”
“No.” He took her hand and tugged her up to a seated position. “You’re passionate, Rose. Jared cares for you and I think you care for him.”
She gave a slight nod. “But what of this?”
“Jared’s my friend. You’re Jared’s friend. Why can’t this just be what it is while I’m here?”
“While you’re here?”
“I won’t be at Hawksfell forever, you know. But your positions, yours and Jared’s, will be secure. Please, don’t give that worry a moment’s quarter.”
“I won’t.”
Her eyes clouded a bit, and he lifted her chin. “Promise me you won’t worry about what we share? I would never want to leave you hurt or alone after this is done.”
“You won’t hurt me.” A smile curved her lips. “You just proved that. As for being alone, of that I’m not certain.”
This talk of the future was far too much for Robert to take. Not at this time in his life and not after such a mind-blowing climax.
“Let’s not borrow trouble.”
She brightened. “That’s what my mum always says.”
“And I take it she’s always right?”
“Oh, yes.”
“Then we’ll just take care with each other. I promise.”
She reached out to touch his face and the tenderness froze the air in his lungs.
“I promise, as well,” she said. “Now we must speak to that cheeky Jared and make certain he promises, too.”
He began to breathe again as he cuddled her in his arms.
* * * *
The soft knock came at her door long past midnight that same night.
“Rose.”
It was Jared, and she hadn’t yet thought through what she was going to tell him. Hurrying to the door, she pulled it open and gestured him inside.
“Quickly,” she urged on a whisper. “And quietly, if you please.”
Jared rushed inside, his hair mussed as if he’d run his fingers through it. “Robert told me.”
She winced. “I guessed as much. He’s just so beautiful. Isn’t he?”
Jared grinned. “He is. Did you enjoy yourself, then?”
She crossed her arms. “If he told you about it then he also told you that I did.”
Jared brought his face to hers. “He licked your pussy, Rose. Told me he drove you mad before he took you.”
Her cheeks flushed hot but she nodded. “He did. He was gentle with me. Tender, even. I found my heart beating so fast when he looked at me with those dark eyes of his.”
Jared nodded. “He’s a singular man, that’s true. Irresistible.”
“He asked me if I want you, too.”
Jared studied her. “Do you?”
She took a breath. “I want you both.”
“You can’t mean that,” Jared said.
Rose stared at him, nodding her head firmly. “I do.”
Jared sank down on her bed. “Robert said you agreed, but I had to ask you myself.”
“And now?” Worry and regret niggled at her. “Now that I’m a prize won I’m no longer worth the winning?”
He stared up at her. “Ah no, Rose. I believe I want you more.”
She sat beside him. “Isn’t that passing strange, Jared? Even as I admit to myself that I want the both of you how can you want both Robert and me?”
Jared shrugged. “I don’t know. This is so new for me.”
“You don’t think poorly of me, then?”
He touched her cheek as Robert had done hours earlier. “Never that. Although I d
o wish I’d been there.”
“Instead of Robert?”
“No, sweet. To watch you with Robert.”
She laughed a little at that. “Oh, we’re all daft aren’t we?”
“Perhaps,” Jared said with a wink. “Daft and happy, I’d wager.”
They shared a smile, and then she sobered. “He’ll not stay forever, you know. We have to take care of our hearts.”
He took her hand and kissed it, then held it to his chest. “I promise to keep you safe from heartache as well as babies, Rose. You believe me?”
“I do.”
“So what say we go to him.”
“What, tonight? You are daft.”
“Too late, is it?”
“Too close, Jared.”
“My rooms, then. We’ll fix a time to be together soon.”
Her heart skipped as she imagined the two men at her disposal. She might just be a wanton but she was going to enjoy this brief time.
“I know why I’m drawn to you,” she admitted. “You’re bright and pretty and so easy to be around. But Robert is so dark and commanding.”
Jared’s brow furrowed. “He said he didn’t force you.”
She waved a hand. “He didn’t. He was gentle, as I said. He’s just so dour.”
“I can sometimes get smiles out of him.”
She could imagine just how he managed it. Perhaps she would see for herself tomorrow.
“He did smile tonight. Surprised me.”
“Then we must make certain he smiles all the time he’s with us.”
She laughed now. “How could he not, with such a cheeky companion?”
Jared shrugged. “He loved me, too, you know.”
Her mouth dropped open. “Never say you took him inside?”
“I did.”
She shuddered as the vague picture of Robert loving Jared filled her mind. “I believe I’ll need to see that for myself.”
Jared whistled. “You just might be the death of me before this is over, Rose girl.”
Chapter 7
The next afternoon, when her midday duties were done and long before she’d be missed, she made her way toward the carriage house. Jared had whispered in her ear that morning about their rendezvous. Now her heart pounded and her flesh felt hot and she couldn’t wait to be alone with him and Robert.