A Touch of Shame

Evelyn's heart hammered against her ribs.

She scrambled off Alexander's lap, putting a swift distance between them.

Heat instantly bloomed across her face.

She didn't need a mirror to know her cheeks were flushed a deep crimson.

What had she been thinking?

Evelyn took a sharp breath and glanced around. The amused grins of the household staff, including Samuel, the perceptive butler, greeted her. She bit her lip, utterly mortified, wishing the floor would open up and swallow her.

This was entirely Alexander's fault! Why hadn't he warned her?

Consumed by embarrassment, Evelyn whirled around and dashed back into Serenity Oaks.

Alexander watched her frantic escape, a soft smile playing on his lips, his gaze warm.

After a moment, he composed himself and turned to the staff, his tone firm. "What you saw here today does not leave this property. I will not have my wife feeling uncomfortable."

"Yes, Mr. Blackwood," the servants replied in unison.

Samuel nodded, a knowing look in his eyes. "Understood, sir."

The others quickly added their assurances, one even joking that they had remarkably poor memories.

The instant Alexander went inside, the group burst into excited whispers.

"My god, the way he adores her is something else!"

"Truly! I haven't seen him look that happy in years!"

"Their relationship must be so strong."

Samuel chuckled quietly. "At this rate," he observed, "it won't be long before we have a little one toddling through these halls."

A nearby maid giggled. "Maybe even a whole bunch of adorable little ones!"

"Exactly! With their looks, their children will be absolutely gorgeous."

"I can hardly wait!"

Samuel listened to their lively chatter with a satisfied smile, more certain than ever that Evelyn and Alexander were meant to be together.

He had known Alexander for so many years.

He had seen the man's cold, distant demeanor firsthand.

But since Evelyn came into his life, everything had changed.

The transformation was profound.

He was certain their future would be even brighter, filled with more joy.

Evelyn hurried back to her room.

She splashed cold water on her face, trying to cool her burning cheeks.

Alexander entered a moment later.

He stopped at the bathroom door, watching her pat her face dry with a towel.

He noticed her flustered state immediately.

"Evelyn," he said, his voice low. "If the staff is making you uncomfortable, I can send them all away."

She froze, then shook her head quickly.

"No! That's not it at all."

She looked down, biting her lip shyly.

"I don't dislike having them here."

She met his gaze, her cheeks still pink.

"I just feel a little embarrassed, that's all."

Alexander raised an eyebrow. "Embarrassed?"

"It's fine," he continued, his expression serious. "Just say the word. I'll handle it."

Seeing his determined look, she panicked.

She was afraid he might actually dismiss everyone right then.

"No, really!" she insisted, her voice firm. "I'm not uncomfortable. I like them being here."

She took a step closer.

"I'm just not used to... being so affectionate with you in front of an audience."

She gave him a pointed look, as if stating the obvious.

"Besides, if you send them all away, who will take care of this huge house?"

A small smile played on her lips.

"You don't expect me to do it, do you? I'm far too busy for that."

Alexander feigned offense, a mock hurt expression crossing his face.

"What's this?" he teased, moving closer. "Are you saying you're already tired of me?"