Embrace the Night

Page 54



It was just at dusk that Gabriel entered the room. Sara glanced up from her book, her spirits lifting at the mere sight of him. Clad in a full-sleeved white shirt, tight black breeches, and soft leather boots, he took her breath away.

Rising, she ran across the floor and threw herself into his arms.

Gabriel closed his eyes as his arms closed around Sara. She fit into his embrace as though her form had been sculpted to complement his. Her scent rose all around him, warm and feminine. And alive.

For endless moments, they clung to each other.

For Sara, it was like coming home after a long absence. For Gabriel, it was like walking in the sunshine.

After a time, Gabriel drew back so he could see her face. "Is anything wrong?" "Not anymore."

"I don't understand."

"I missed you," Sara explained shyly. "All day, I wondered where you were, what you were doing." She placed her hand on his chest, her fingertips making random circles over his heart. "It's lonely here without you."

"I'm sorry. You must be hungry. Would you care to go out?" His gaze moved over her. "You look lovely."

Sara lowered her gaze. "Thank you."

Releasing her, he draped the cloak about her shoulders, then offered her his arm. "Shall we go?"

He took her to a small but elegant restaurant, sipped a glass of red wine while she ate an enormous meal.

"Why aren't you eating?" Sara asked.

He hesitated a moment before he said, "I dined earlier." "Oh."

"Finish your meal, cara, and then, if you'd like, we'll take a stroll in the gardens."

She ate quickly, conscious of his gaze, aware of his every movement. She loved to watch his hands. They were strong hands, expressive hands. Gentle hands. She felt a blush heat her cheeks as she recalled the kiss they had shared, the way his hands had skimmed over her body, light as the wings of a butterfly.