Read Online His Perfect Lady by Jenn Langston - Free Book Online Page B

manner in front of so many people.
    Her back burned where his arm rested and each movement shot tremors through her body. Halfway through the dance, her legs became so numb with desire she wasn’t sure she’d be able to finish waltzing. Luckily Jonathan’s skill enabled her to continue along with his guidance.
    “How can you be tired already? You’ve only just arrived,” he asked, obviously noticing her dwindling ability.
    His words helped to clear up some of the lust throbbing through her veins.
    “I’m simply testing your skills at leading a less-than-proficient partner.” Her voice came out breathless.
    “Ah, I see. So, do I pass?”
    Watching his twitching lips proved to be a mistake. Joy seemed to be an inherent part of him. She was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. Those bugs flew to their deaths, and she hoped she’d be wiser than they.
    “I . . . I don’t know.”
    “Stop it.” His whisper only served to ignite her already sensitive body. “Your face, although enchanting, proclaims to all around that our relationship has escalated beyond what is proper.”
    She dropped her gaze but was unable to answer. His gentle laughter washed over her and did nothing to cool her ardor.
    “Come on, just a few more bars then I can whisk you away to wherever you wish.”
    Although his demeanor portrayed to everyone how unaffected he was, she felt the truth in his body. He held himself rigid, making her want to rub the tight muscles she felt under her fingertips. His hand at her back moved faster than the music. Knowing she could affect him gave her a heady feeling. When the last note sounded, she nearly sagged in relief.
    “Allow me to take you into the oasis.” Jonathan’s raspy voice made her shiver despite the heat.
    Anxious to be alone with him, oasis or not, she nodded and allowed him to escort her off the dance floor. As they passed the dancers, she caught Evelyn’s eye. She shot Catherine a smug look then peered up at Lord Dudgery with an openly flirtatious smile. Then Catherine saw her push her chest further out, allowing him a view of her overabundant cleavage. Shocked, Catherine turned away.
    Evelyn had obviously hoped to make Catherine jealous of Lord Dudgery’s attention, but the plan didn’t work. Part of Catherine wanted to point out that on Jonathan’s arm, she clearly had the better catch, but she resisted the urge. Lord Dudgery was a marrying man, while Jonathan didn’t fall anywhere near that category.
    “Are you enjoying the décor?” Jonathan’s voice pulled her from her thoughts of Evelyn.
    “Yes. Lady Laramie is quite skilled to be able to put together such an extravagant event.”
    “Wait until you see this.” With that, he swept her onto the terrace.
    Her eyes widened as her hand flew to her chest. Before her was a large waterfall constructed out of various shades of blue material. An array of cloths and ribbons ran down the length of it in strips. The gentle blowing of the wind gave off the effect that water actually flowed down the rocks. Never in her life had she seen such a glorious spectacle.
    “It’s breathtaking,” she breathed, clutching Jonathan’s arm with her free hand. Something about witnessing this with him made the moment more special.
    “On its own, but it pales in comparison to you. I’ve been remiss in my worship of your beauty tonight. You are absolutely ravishing.”
    Catherine ducked her head as heat crawled up her cheeks. “Thank you.”
    “Why do you hide your face? It needs to be seen. To be enjoyed.”
    Her skin burned hotter, but she lifted her head regardless. Jonathan chuckled and then led her around the waterfall and into the gardens. More spectacular sights awaited her as she inspected the exotic plants and flowers surrounding the pathways and integrated throughout the lawns. Statues of monkeys and various other wildlife she’d never encountered greeted them through their walk.
    Everything was green and bright. She sucked in a breath,