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Considering that it wasn't yet noon, Belle could only wonder as to the length of Persephone's route, but she didn't say a word as the older lady fluttered out the door
"Not exactly the sternest of chaperones," John commented
"No"
"Shall we retire to a parlor? I'm desperate to kiss you, and I'd rather not do it in the hall"
Belle blushed but led the way to a nearby drawing room
John kicked the door shut and hauled her into his arms "Chaperone-less for the entire day," he murmured between kisses "Was ever a man so blessed?"
"Was ever a woman so blessed?" Belle countered
"I think not Come over here to the sofa so I can ply you with chocolates and flowers" He took her hand and pulled her along with hiled softly as she let hihthearted, so carefree There was still a thin veil of sadness and hesitation in his eyes, but it was nothing compared to the haunted look she'd seen back in Oxfordshire "The only person you're plying with those chocolates is yourself You've already had three"
John sat and pulled her down next to hiift unless you like it, too Here, have one They're quite good" He picked up a sweet and held it in front of herher lips with deliberate seductiveness as she chewed "It's exquisite," sheabout chocolate
Belle leaned forward for the rest of the candy and took it in her ers as she did so "A little bit melted on your skin," she said innocently
"A little bit melted on your skin, too" Heshivers of desire right to the tips of her toes Leaning forward, he ran his tongue along the soft edge of her upper lip "I missed a bit here," he murmured "And here" He moved to her lower lip, which he teased between his teeth
Belle had quite forgotten how to breathe "I think I like being courted," she whispered
"Haven't you ever been before?" John took a little nip of her ear
"Not like this"
"Good" He smiled possessively
Belle arched her neck as he ran his lips along her tender skin "I hope you haven't conducted any other courtships with this particular brand of, er, persuasion"
"Never," he promised