“
My net search is finding only a Cadet Carswell Thorne, of the American Republic, imprisoned in New Beijing prison on—"
"That's him," said Cinder, ignoring Thorne's glare.
Another silence as the heat in the engine room hovered just upside of comfortable. The, "You're... rather handsome, Captain Thorne."
Cinder groaned.
"And you, my fine lady, are the most gorgeous ship in these skies, and don't let anyone ever tell you different."
The temperature drifted upward, until Cinder dropped her arms with a sigh. "Iko, are you intentionally blushing?"
The temperature dropped back down to pleasant. "No," Iko said. Then, "But am I really pretty? Even as a ship?"
"The prettiest," said Thorne.
”
”
Marissa Meyer (Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles, #2))
“
O, reason not the need! Our basest beggars
Are in the poorest thing superfluous.
Allow not nature more than nature needs,
Man's life is cheap as beast's. Thou art a lady:
If only to go warm were gorgeous,
Why, nature needs not what thou gorgeous wear'st
Which scarcely keeps thee warm. But, for true need-
You heavens, give me that patience, patience I need!
”
”
William Shakespeare (King Lear)
“
Barbra [was a] different-looking, different-sounding, different acting lad[y] of great personal charisma who redefined what it meant to be glamorous.
”
”
William J. Mann (Hello, Gorgeous: Becoming Barbra Streisand)
“
But I'm... How can I... No hand, no visual sensor, humongous landing gear... Are those supposed to be my feet?"
" Well, no. It's supposed to be landing gear."
"Oh, what's become of me? I'm hideous!"
"Now hold on just a minute there, Miss disembodied voice." Throne strode into the engine room and crossed his arms. "What do you mean 'hideous'?"
"Who's that? Who's speaking?"
"I am Captain Carswell Thorne, the owner of this fine ship and I will not stand to have her insulted in my presence!" Cinder rolled her eyes.
"Captain Carswell Thorne?"
"That's right."
A brief silence, "My net search is finding only Cadet Carswell Thorne."
"That's him." Said Cinder
Another silence as the heat in the engine room rose. "You're rather handsome, Captain"
"And you my fine lady, are the most gorgeous ship in these skies, and don't let anyone tell you other wise."
"Iko, are you intentionally blushing?"
"But am I really pretty? Even as a ship?"
"The prettiest.
”
”
Marissa Meyer (Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles, #2))
“
Another silence as the heat in the engine room hovered just upside of comfortable. Then, “You’re … rather handsome, Captain Thorne.” Cinder groaned. “And you, my fine lady, are the most gorgeous ship in these skies, and don’t let anyone ever tell you different.
”
”
Marissa Meyer (Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles, #2))
“
A radiant girl with red hair caught Charlotte's eye. She was dressed in a gorgeous embroidered, jewel-encrusted gown and Elizabethan headdress. In her hand she held a book. She smiled sweetly at Jane, and reached for the man beside her, who, to Charlotte's total astonishment, suddenly turned into a horse.
”
”
Cynthia Hand (My Plain Jane (The Lady Janies, #2))
“
Don’t let “reality” make you lose faith in God and gain faith in Man. Don’t put your Joy in man because when man leaves, there goes your Joy. The world didn’t give you your joy and the world can’t take it away. Your value isn’t in the hands of people and your worth was determined when you got here. You were born Gorgeous, but the world will try to convince you otherwise. You’re the daughter of the Kings of Kings and your worth extends beyond the clouds. You’re a product of LOVE.
”
”
Enitan O. Bereola II (Gentlewoman: Etiquette for a Lady, from a Gentleman (BEREOLAESQUE))
“
But Daniel wouldn't kiss her the way she wanted.The closer she pressed to him, the farther back he leaned.
Finally he pushed her away completely. He held on only to her hands, as if the rest of her were dangerous.
"Lady." He kissed the very tips of her fingers, making her shiver. "Would I be too bold to say your love makes you unmannerly?"
"Unmannerly?" Luce blushed.
Daniel took her back into his arms, slowly, a bit nervously. "Good Lucinda, you must not find yourself in this place dressed as you are." His eyes kept returning to her dress. "What clothes are these? WHere is your costume?" He reached into a wardrobe and flicked through the clothes pegs.
Quickly,Daniel began to unlace his boots, tossing them on the floor with two thuds. Luce tried not to gape when he dropped his trousers.He wore short gray pantaloons underneath that left very little to the imagination.
Her cheeks burned as Daniel briskly unbuttoned his white shirt. He yanked it off,exposing the full beauty of his chest.Luce sucked in her breath. The only things missing were his unfurled wings. Daniel was so impeccably gorgeous-and he seemed to have no idea of the effect he was having on her by standing there in his underwear.
She gulped,fanning herself. "Is it hot in here?
”
”
Lauren Kate (Passion (Fallen, #3))
“
Are you this friendly to all the guests Mr...?" I ask, while trying to see if he's wearing a name tag.
"Yes, when we have a gorgeous lady in the lounge such as yourself, we pull out all the charm. I'll be back in a little while with your food and another martini." He says as he turns to walk back to the bar.
”
”
A.M. Willard (One Night (One Night, #1))
“
Anna noticed many people taking in the sight of her in her men's clothing and nodding appreciaticely. The men seemed pleased or amused, the women either admiring or- interested. Quite a few raked Anna boldly with their eyes, their gazes clinging to the feminine body revealed by her fitted clothes. It was as if in casting off dresses she had cast off society's expectation of a woman's modesty and could allow herself to be admired, desired. Her soul soared with new confidence: she felt herself a gorgeous creature, neither a gentleman nor a lady. A gentlewoman, she thought.
”
”
Cassandra Clare (Ghosts of the Shadow Market)
“
Almost every woman inherently wants to have the 'desirability advantage,' but few are willing to admit not to mention work on it. The following advice is strictly meant for sensual ladies: Don't be afraid to be your most gorgeous self or to look sexy. Yes, it will give you an unfair advantage, but what's really important is that it will teach you the art of living a sensual lifestyle, an art without which life (and love) would be utterly boring if not depressing.
”
”
Lebo Grand
“
A chorus of Golden Pages and Jade Maidens came onto the stage, fairy streamers fluttering and flags aloft, to reveal in their midst a gorgeously attired lady, her head draped in black, her costume shimmering with
”
”
Cao Xueqin (The Story of the Stone: The Debt of Tears)
“
Another silence as the heat in the engine room hovered just upside of comfortable. Then, “You’re … rather handsome, Captain Thorne.” Cinder groaned. “And you, my fine lady, are the most gorgeous ship in these skies, and don’t let anyone ever tell you different.” The temperature drifted upward, until Cinder dropped her arms with a sigh. “Iko, are you intentionally blushing?
”
”
Marissa Meyer (Scarlet (Lunar Chronicles, #2))
“
By the time we reached the front door of the party house—a total mansion, like Harrison had said—Nathan was far behind us. Well, he’d promised to stay out of our hair.
“Wow,” I heard Bailey gasp as the front door swung open for us, though I wasn’t sure if that was her reaction to the freakishly large house or to the drop-dead-gorgeous guy standing in front of us.
“Good evening, ladies,” he said, stepping aside to let us enter.
Automatically, I found myself standing up taller and sliding my shoulder blades back for optimum cleavage exposure. It was like a flirting reflex. I just wished I wasn’t all sunburned. “Hello to you.”
He grinned at me. A cocky, sexy grin. “I don’t believe we’ve met,” he said. He glanced at Bailey then. “Any of us. I’m sure I’d remember those pretty faces.”
I swear, Bailey was blushing so hard I could feel the heat radiating from her body.
“Oh, you’d remember,” I agreed, tossing back my hair and putting a hand on my hip. “I’m Whi—”
“Whitley!”
I jumped and spun around involuntarily. Harrison was standing beside me, looking thoroughly delighted. “Hello again, darling. You look gorgeous—and the lack of flip-flops is making my day. Those slingbacks are perfect!”
I nodded, glancing over my shoulder at the hot guy, but he’d already moved on and was chatting with a group of kids a few feet away. Goddamn it.
“Wesley is just so busy,” Harrison said, following my gaze. “You have to give him credit for being a great host. He talks to everyone. Seems like way too much work to me.
”
”
Kody Keplinger (A Midsummer's Nightmare (Hamilton High, #3))
“
They’ve been lying from the start. From the first time we read the words ‘once upon a time,’ we’re fed the idea that these girls—these gorgeous, demure, singing-with-the-wildlife girls—get a happy ending. And I get it. Poor thing had to do some chores around the house, fine. But the idea that she needs a magic old lady to come down and skim off the dirt so the prince will see her beauty? That’s ridiculous. Maybe she should have been working on her lockpicking skills instead of serenading squirrels. She could have busted out, hitched a ride to the castle, and impressed the prince with her safe-cracking prowess. Sorry, magic-fairy lady. She didn’t need your help.
”
”
Kelsey Macke (Damsel Distressed)
“
Beside him, very close beside him, was a gorgeous woman. She had masses of deep auburn hair and great violet eyes. She was not plump, yet she gave the impression of soft, rounded curves and comfortable hollows. She had an air of Mona Lisa, the Lady of Shalott. All her movements were slow with a lazy, languid indolence
”
”
Winifred Watson (Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day)
“
I like the bare look, babe. Your little landing strip thingy you have going on is cool, but bare is better. The club sluts always le…….” He stops speaking abruptly; I’m sure, because of the look on my face. Axel stands quickly and mumbles over his shoulder as he leaves the bathroom, “Be back in an hour.” “Where are you going?” I shout at him. “There’s a lady I have to go see again,” I hear as the front door slams behind him. The bouquet of flowers Axel returns with is gorgeous!
”
”
Lola Wright (Axel (The Devil's Angels MC #2))
“
A gentleman never comes first, and if he does, he better be making it up to his lady tenfold.
”
”
Karen Deen (Gorgeous Gyno (The Chicago Boys Series Book 1))
“
Once he had put the phone down Lennie felt restless. His wife was the most exciting woman in the world, but – damn it – she pissed him off. Why couldn’t she say – Lennie, if things are tough, I’ll be right there? Why couldn’t she forget everything else and be with him? Lucky Santangelo. Drop-dead gorgeous. Strong. Determined. Enormously rich. And too independent. Lucky Santangelo. His wife.
”
”
Jackie Collins (Lady Boss)
“
And what of you Lady Sterling? Do you have any news?" Mrs. Tavisham asked.
Yes, an impossibly gorgeous man ravished me in my carriage . Quite a most delightful afternoon. Bella resisted the urge to lick her lips and instead smiled politely."No, nothing of interest.
”
”
Evangeline Collins (Her Ladyship's Companion)
“
I enter. I’m not scared of Master Ez.
I lean against the door with my eyes shut and breathe. Why did he ask me here if he wasn’t going to be waiting?
“You look gorgeous,” a silky voice purrs and I jump again.
“I thought you weren’t here. Why did Aaron let me in?” My voice quivers in fear- hell, yeah… I’m afraid of Master Ez.
The office doesn’t get a second of my notice. Master Ez sits at his desk. He doesn’t get up. He smirks at me lasciviously. His steel eyes glow in the dim room. He commands me to look at him and I can’t stop.
“I ask the questions, Regina.” The cadence is smooth, but there is an undercurrent of threat.
He called me Regina, only Ezra calls me Regina. The one that was upset when I fled to the bathroom is the childlike Ezra- he probably would call me Regina, too. Master Ez calls me Queen. The true Ezra is a combination of both- an integrated personality. He’s the one talking to me. Why is HE looking at me like that?
“I don’t understand that look, Ezra,” I mumble.
“As I’ve said over and over, we are one in the same- Master Ez and I.” He sighs like he gets sick of pointing out that fact.
“Um- yeah… but Master Ez loves ladies and they’re missing an appendage for you to enjoy,” I tease because anything else would scare the shit out of me.
“Regina, Regina,” he laughs. “The Ezra I used to be liked boys. That changed- quickly and against my will. Master Ez only likes girls. Doesn’t it seem likely that if who I used to be liked boys and who manifested liked woman, that perhaps I enjoy both now? If we are to cohabitate in peace, we have certain concessions to make.
”
”
Erica Chilson (Checkmate (Mistress & Master of Restraint, #7))
“
How was your journey?" he asked.
"You don't have to make small talk with me," she said. "I don't like it, and I'm not very good at it."
They paused at the shade of portico, beside a sweet-scented bower of roses. Casually Lord St. Vincent leaned a shoulder against a cream-painted column. A lazy smile curved his lips as he looked down at her. "Didn't Lady Berwick teach you?"
"She tried. But I hate trying to make conversation about weather. Who cares what the temperature is? I want to talk about things like... like..."
"Yes?" he prompted as she hesitated.
"Darwin. Women's suffrage. Workhouses, war, why we're alive, if you believe in séances or spirits, if music has ever made you cry, or what vegetable you hate most..." Pandora shrugged and glanced up at him, expecting the familiar frozen expression of a man who was about to run for his life. Instead she found herself caught by his arrested stare, while the silence seemed to wrap around them.
After a moment, Lord St. Vincent said softly, "Carrots."
Bemused, Pandora tried to gather her wits. "That's the vegetable you hate most? Do you mean cooked ones?"
"Any kind of carrots."
"Out of all vegetables?" At his nod, she persisted, "What about carrot cake?"
"No."
But it's cake."
A smile flickered across his lips. "Still carrots."
Pandora wanted to argue the superiority of carrots over some truly atrocious vegetable, such as Brussels sprouts, but heir conversation was interrupted by a silky masculine voice.
"Ah, there you are. I've been sent out to fetch you."
Pandora shrank back as she saw a tall msn approach in a graceful stride. She knew instantly that he must be Lord Sy. Vincent's father- the resemblance was striking. His complexion was tanned and lightly time-weathered, with laugh-lines at the outer corners of his blue eyes. He had a full head of tawny-golden hair, handsomely silvered at the sides and temples. Having heard of his reputation as a former libertine, Pandora had expected an aging roué with coarse features and a leer... not this rather gorgeous specimen who wore his formidable presence like an elegant suit of clothes.
"My son, what can you be thinking, keeping this enchanting creature out in the heat of midday?
”
”
Lisa Kleypas (Devil in Spring (The Ravenels, #3))
“
It doesn’t matter what they think. Dance with me.”
He took her hand, and for the first time in a long while, she felt safe. He pulled her to the center of the floor and into the motions of the dance.
Ronan didn’t speak for a few moments, then touched a slim braid that curved in a tendril along Kestrel’s cheek. “This is pretty.”
The memory of Arin’s hands in her hair made her stiffen.
“Gorgeous?” Ronan tried again. “Transcendent? Kestrel, the right adjective hasn’t been invented to describe you.”
She attempted a light tone. “What will ladies do, when this kind of exaggerated flirtation is no longer the fashion? We shall be spoiled.”
“You know it’s not mere flirtation,” Ronan said. “You’ve always known.”
And Kestrel had, it was true that she had, even if she hadn’t wanted to shake the knowledge out of her mind and look at it, truly see it. She felt a dull spark of dread.
“Marry me, Kestrel.
”
”
Marie Rutkoski (The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy, #1))
“
I’ve taken a sudden notion to appreciate mature females,” Deene was saying. “Though if her brothers ask, I’m being protective in their absence. Hold my drink.” And that, the simple fact of Deene’s unthinking response to a gorgeous woman, saved Hazlit from making a similar fool of himself. He supposed he’d make a little different fool of himself later in the evening, after Maggie had had her fun and left a trail of broken hearts all over the room. When
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (The Duke's Daughters, #2; Windham, #5))
“
Reading his autobiography many years later, I was astonished to find that Edward since boyhood had—not unlike Isaiah Berlin—often felt himself ungainly and ill-favored and awkward in bearing. He had always seemed to me quite the reverse: a touch dandyish perhaps but—as the saying goes—perfectly secure in his masculinity. On one occasion, after lunch in Georgetown, he took me with him to a renowned local tobacconist and asked to do something I had never witnessed before: 'try on' a pipe. In case you ever wish to do this, here is the form: a solemn assistant produces a plastic envelope and fits it over the amber or ivory mouthpiece. You then clamp your teeth down to feel if the 'fit' and weight are easy to your jaw. If not, then repeat with various stems until your browsing is complete. In those days I could have inhaled ten cigarettes and drunk three Tanqueray martinis in the time spent on such flaneur flippancy, but I admired the commitment to smoking nonetheless. Taking coffee with him once in a shopping mall in Stanford, I saw him suddenly register something over my shoulder. It was a ladies' dress shop. He excused himself and dashed in, to emerge soon after with some fashionable and costly looking bags. 'Mariam,' he said as if by way of explanation, 'has never worn anything that I have not bought for her.' On another occasion in Manhattan, after acting as a magnificent, encyclopedic guide around the gorgeous Andalusia (Al-Andalus) exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art, he was giving lunch to Carol and to me when she noticed that her purse had been lost or stolen. At once, he was at her service, not only suggesting shops in the vicinity where a replacement might be found, but also offering to be her guide and advisor until she had selected a suitable new sac à main. I could no more have proposed myself for such an expedition than suggested myself as a cosmonaut, so what this says about my own heterosexual confidence I leave to others.
”
”
Christopher Hitchens (Hitch 22: A Memoir)
“
Are you two dating now?”
“Yup,” I say with finality. “We’re a couple, so I’m sorry to inform you but your title of cutest couple is about to be stolen.”
“You think we’re cuter than Milly and Carson?” Emory asks.
“Of course. No competition. Milly is gorgeous but Carson is bringing down the team. I surpass them without even having a girlfriend, hell, if I were coupled up with my nightstand, I’d be a better couple.”
“I’ll be sure to spread the news on to Carson.” Knox laughs to himself.
“Not the best idea, you know how sensitive he is.”
“I think you’re referring to yourself,” Knox points out.
I chuckle. “True, I’m very sensitive and if he finds out and comes after my ass, I won’t recover easily, which means I’ll be over here at your place, begging you to nurse me back to health so my lady friend doesn’t have to see me in such a weak state.”
Knox scratches the side of his jaw and says, “Have I ever told you how much I really don’t like you?”
“Almost every day.” I wink at him.
”
”
Meghan Quinn (The Lineup)
“
Didn’t Gran make a beautiful bride, Jackson?” Celia asked.
“Hmm? Yes. Beautiful.” He covered her gloved hand with his. “Though not nearly as beautiful a bride as you were.”
She smiled. “Flatterer.”
“Not a bit. It’s the absolute truth.”
“You were a gorgeous bride,” Aunt Ada agreed. “That veil with the rosettes…”
And they were off again, discussing gauze and ribbons and something called a furbelow. That last one sounded dirty, but he figured it probably wasn’t, it they were discussing it with such enthusiasm.
”
”
Sabrina Jeffries (A Lady Never Surrenders (Hellions of Halstead Hall, #5))
“
It’s a long story,” he said, taking a sip of Mr. Braeburn’s whiskey, “so I will tell only a
very condensed version of it.
“Mrs. Marsden and I grew up on adjacent properties in the Cotswold. But the Cotswold, as
fair as it is, plays almost no part in this tale. Because it was not in the green, unpolluted
countryside that we fell in love, but in gray, sooty London. Love at first sight, of course, a
hunger of the soul that could not be denied.”
Bryony trembled somewhere inside. This was not their story, but her story, the determined
spinster felled by the magnificence and charm of the gorgeous young thing.
He glanced at her. “You were the moon of my existence; your moods dictated the tides of
my heart.”
The tides of her own heart surged at his words, even though his words were nothing but
lies.
“I don’t believe I had moods,” she said severely.
“No, of course not. ‘Thou art more lovely and more temperate’—and the tides of my heart
only rose ever higher to crash against the levee of my self-possession. For I loved you most
intemperately, my dear Mrs. Marsden.”
Beside her Mrs. Braeburn blushed, her eyes bright. Bryony was furious at Leo, for his
facile words, and even more so at herself, for the painful pleasure that trickled into her drop
by drop.
“Our wedding was the happiest hour of my life, that we would belong to each other always.
The church was filled with hyacinths and camellias, and the crowd overflowed to the steps,
for the whole world wanted to see who had at last captured your lofty heart.
“But alas, I had not truly captured your lofty heart, had I? I but held it for a moment. And
soon there was trouble in Paradise. One day, you said to me, ‘My hair has turned white. It is a
sign I must wander far and away. Find me then, if you can. Then and only then will I be yours
again.’”
Her heart pounded again. How did he know that she had indeed taken her hair turning white
as a sign that the time had come for her to leave? No, he did not know. He’d made it up out of
whole cloth. But even Mr. Braeburn was spellbound by this ridiculous tale. She had forgotten
how hypnotic Leo could be, when he wished to beguile a crowd.
“And so I have searched. From the poles to the tropics, from the shores of China to the
shores of Nova Scotia. Our wedding photograph in hand, I have asked crowds pale, red,
brown, and black, ‘I seek an English lady doctor, my lost beloved. Have you seen her?’”
He looked into her eyes, and she could not look away, as mesmerized as the hapless
Braeburns.
“And now I have found you at last.” He raised his glass. “To the beginning of the rest of
our lives.
”
”
Sherry Thomas (Not Quite a Husband (The Marsdens, #2))
“
You and Mr. Hazlit make a gorgeous couple.” “Nothing I do constitutes a gorgeous anything, Eve Windham. You will cease that talk immediately.” “You sound just like Mama in a taking with one of the boys,” Evie said, smiling widely. “You should have seen yourself, Mags. Your eyes sparkled when he held you in his arms.” “Evie!” Though Maggie had to smile. In some ways, Evie was still their baby girl, allowed to hold on to the innocence of childhood well past her come out. “They did. Mama had already gone on to Almack’s with the others, but Val and I saw you.” “I wanted to assure myself the man wasn’t up to his spying. Not on us, anyway.” “Mags, he wouldn’t be spying at a ball.” “Yes, Evie, he would.” And
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (The Duke's Daughters, #2; Windham, #5))
“
It doesn’t matter what they think. Dance with me.”
He took her hand, and for the first time in a long while, she felt safe. He pulled her to the center of the floor and into the motions of the dance.
Ronan didn’t speak for a few moments, then touched a slim braid that curved in a tendril along Kestrel’s cheek. “This is pretty.”
The memory of Arin’s hands in her hair made her stiffen.
“Gorgeous?” Ronan tried again. “Transcendent? Kestrel, the right adjective hasn’t been invented to describe you.”
She attempted a light tone. “What will ladies do, when this kind of exaggerated flirtation is no longer the fashion? We shall be spoiled.”
“You know it’s not mere flirtation,” Ronan said. “You’ve always known.”
And Kestrel had, it was true that she had, even if she hadn’t wanted to shake the knowledge out of her mind and look at it, truly see it. She felt a dull spark of dread.
“Marry me, Kestrel.”
She held her breath.
“I know things have been hard lately,” Ronan continued, “and that you don’t deserve it. You’ve had to be so strong, so proud, so cunning. But all of this unpleasantness will go away the instant we announce our engagement. You can be yourself again.”
But she was strong. Proud. Cunning. Who did he think she was, if not the person who mercilessly beat him at every Bite and Sting game, who gave him Irex’s death-price and told him exactly what to do with it? Yet Kestrel bit back her words. She leaned into the curve of his arm. It was easy to dance with him. It would be easy to say yes.
“Your father will be happy. My wedding gift to you will be the finest piano the capital can offer.”
Kestrel glanced into his eyes.
“Or keep yours,” he said hastily. “I know you’re attached to it.”
“It’s just…you are very kind.”
He gave a short, nervous laugh. “Kindness has little to do with it.”
The dance slowed. It would end soon.
“So?” Ronan had stopped, even though the music continued and dancers swirled around them. “What…well, what do you think?”
Kestrel didn’t know what to think. Ronan was offering everything she could want. Why, then, did his words sadden her? Why did she feel like something had been lost? Carefully, she said, “The reasons you’ve given aren’t reasons to marry.”
“I love you. Is that reason enough?
”
”
Marie Rutkoski (The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy, #1))
“
I’d better have a glass then. To complete my ensemble.” Kestrel didn’t quite forget her promise to Arin not to drink, but rather willed it away along with everything else about him.
“Oh, yes,” said Jess. “You must. Don’t you think so, Ronan?”
“I don’t think. I am thinking of nothing other than what Kestrel could be thinking, and whether she will dance with me. If I’m not mistaken, there is one final dance before this legendary wine is served.”
Kestrel’s happiness faltered. “I’d love to, but…won’t your parents mind?”
Ronan and Jess exchanged a glance. “They’re not here,” Ronan said. “They’ve left to spend the winter season in the capital.”
Which meant that, were they here, they would object--as would any parents, given the scandal.
Ronan read Kestrel’s face. “It doesn’t matter what they think. Dance with me.”
He took her hand, and for the first time in a long while, she felt safe. He pulled her to the center of the floor and into the motions of the dance.
Ronan didn’t speak for a few moments, then touched a slim braid that curved in a tendril along Kestrel’s cheek. “This is pretty.”
The memory of Arin’s hands in her hair made her stiffen.
“Gorgeous?” Ronan tried again. “Transcendent? Kestrel, the right adjective hasn’t been invented to describe you.”
She attempted a light tone. “What will ladies do, when this kind of exaggerated flirtation is no longer the fashion? We shall be spoiled.”
“You know it’s not mere flirtation,” Ronan said. “You’ve always known.”
And Kestrel had, it was true that she had, even if she hadn’t wanted to shake the knowledge out of her mind and look at it, truly see it. She felt a dull spark of dread.
“Marry me, Kestrel.
”
”
Marie Rutkoski (The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy, #1))
“
grin. “If I’m going to lay down a fortune for the privilege of experiencing your quivering virgin flesh, I think it goes without saying that I expect to do it without a barrier.” I sat back, clenching my teeth so hard that my head started to ache. My gaze was held fast by the challenge in his ebony eyes. He might have been the most gorgeous creature I’d ever laid my eyes on, but he was also an asshat. He tilted his head at me, puzzled. “Why is that a problem? If we are both cleared by a physician—” I unclenched my jaw just long enough to reply. “Recent medical clearance is not sufficient for me. I’d require celibacy for at least the previous six months, so—” “Then there isn’t a problem.” I highly doubted that. I opened my mouth to call him a liar when Heath leaned forward and put his hand on the table in front of me. Drake’s lawyer cleared his throat, throwing a bland look at me and turning to Drake. “We can work all these details out later in mediation. Mr. Drake does have a plane to catch later today.” Drake’s eyes darted to Heath and back to me. I could tell he was trying to gauge our relationship. It wasn’t the first time a person had looked at the two of us in that unsure, questioning way. Heath was not obviously gay in any way. He wasn’t “fabulous” or flamboyant. He was very masculine in his behavior and mannerisms, so he rarely set off people’s gaydar. My gaze turned back to Drake, drawn to him like a flame pulled into a hot, dry wind. I resented the heat on my cheeks. I was not a habitual blusher. Hardly ever, actually. But this man was bringing my Irish up, as my mother liked to say. And what was worse, the more annoyed I grew with him, the more amused he seemed to be. Drake flicked a glance at Heath and then his lawyer. “Gentlemen, could you excuse us for a moment? You’re free to wait just outside the door.” Then, almost as an afterthought, he glanced at me. “If, of course, that is okay with the lady?” My face flamed hotter and I folded my hands on my lap. “Fine,” I said, wondering if the thirty-something New Yorker was still interested in the
”
”
Brenna Aubrey (At Any Price (Gaming the System, #1))
“
I am going to faint.” “You shall not.” Deene moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her, a bulwark against the roaring in her ears and the constriction in her chest. “Breathe, Evie. It’s just one more horse.” Oh, but not just any horse. Eve knew those gorgeous brown eyes, the deep chest, the little snip of pink skin on the end of the mare’s big, velvety nose. “She’s white now, no longer gray. This is my Sweetness, isn’t it? Tell me this is my dearest… oh, Husband. What have you done?” “I can send her back, if you’d rather not… I didn’t want to upset you, Evie. But you’d asked, and I thought perhaps you’d worried…” “Hush.” She turned in his arms to put her hand over his mouth, but then craned her neck to keep the mare in her sight. “Oh, hush. She will never leave my care again, never. You must promise me, Lucas. Right now, swear to me she is mine to keep.” “She is yours to keep, always. I swear it, vow it, and promise it. It’s in the settlements, it’s in the bill of sale, it’s in my last will and testament. She will always be yours to keep.” That
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Eve's Indiscretion (The Duke's Daughters, #4; Windham, #7))
“
I'm quite certain that Theo plans to wear her cape for at least part of the evening." There was a note of amusement in his voice.
"If you're quite sure that you won't grow overwarm," Claribel said uncertainly, eyeing the cape. It sprang out from Lady Islay's shoulders and then swirled to the ground, managing to look surprisingly light. The inside was lined with a gorgeous rosy silk, and the outside...
"What on earth is that made of?" Claribel couldn't help asking as she reached out to touch it.
"I can guess," Cecil put in, the thread of amusement in his voice even stronger.
"Oh, can you?" Theo remarked. "Then tell me this: am I being altogether too obvious?"
Claribel hadn't the faintest idea what she meant. But Cecil, clever Cecil, obviously did, because he bellowed with laughter.
"Swansdown," he said. "Gorgeous swansdown, and every man and woman in this room has taken note of your swanlike triumph."
"I could not resist," Theo said, with that smile that was all the more attractive for being so rarely seen. "How lucky you are in your husband," she said to Claribel. "It's a rare man who knows his fairy tales.
”
”
Eloisa James (The Ugly Duchess (Fairy Tales, #4))
“
They’re sound theories,” Benjamin replied. “And they let me both steal a bite from your ices and feed you a few spoonfuls of my own.” She had to glance away lest he see her smile. “I was distracted, else you should not have gotten away with such outrageous behavior. I know what you’re doing, though.” “I’m glad somebody knows what I’m about, because I seem to have lost my own grasp of it entirely.” He smiled at her, an open, charming smile that had Maggie’s insides fluttering around like the birds flitting from branch to branch above them. “You’re making it seem as if we’re enamored of one another.” She kept her eyes on the horses before them, because an honest smile from Benjamin Portmaine was enough to steal her few remaining wits. “I am enamored of you.” He slowed the horses to let a landau lumber on ahead of them. “You’re gorgeous, passionate, intelligent, and independent—also a financial genius. I’m the man who proposed to you earlier this week, if you’ll recall.” “Must you remind me?” “Frequently, until you comprehend that I did not ask out of anything other than an honest desire to make you my countess.” She
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (The Duke's Daughters, #2; Windham, #5))
“
They grew weary, and sat down on the rocky floor, for wait they would — indeed, wait they must. Each set his lamp by his knee, and watched it die. Slowly it sank, dulled, looked lazy and stupid. But ever as it sank and dulled, the image in his mind of the Lady of Light grew stronger and clearer. Together the two lamps panted and shuddered. First one, then the other went out, leaving for a moment a great red, evil-smelling snuff. Then all was the blackness of darkness up to their very hearts and everywhere around them. Was it? No. Far away — it looked miles away — shone one minute faint point of green light — where, who could tell? They only knew that it shone. It grew larger, and seemed to draw nearer, until at last, as they watched with speechless delight and expectation, it seemed once more within reach of an outstretched hand. Then it spread and melted away as before, and there were eyes — and a face — and a lovely form — and lo! the whole cavern blazing with lights innumerable, and gorgeous, yet soft and interfused — so blended, indeed, that the eye had to search and see in order to separate distinct spots of special colour.
”
”
George MacDonald (Complete Works of George MacDonald)
“
I recall when my youngest sister started to crawl. Papa insisted we have a party in the nursery, because his last little princess was up off the floor. I danced with him by standing on his shiny, tall boots.” “I can do that for you, you know.” “Let me dance on your boots?” She picked up a brush and tilted her head to the side so the mass of her hair fell over one shoulder. “Brush your hair.” He tossed the covers back, started across the room, and then caught sight of Sophie’s fascinated expression in the vanity mirror. He snatched the dressing gown from the bed and belted it snugly around his waist. When he stood directly behind her, she passed the brush back to him, letting their fingers barely touch. Ah, so she was teasing him. The subtle teasing of a woman who understood the value of anticipation, but teasing all the same. Vim smiled at her in the mirror. “You have gorgeous hair, Sophie Windham.” He drew the damp, curling length of it back over her shoulders in both of his hands and repeated the caress when she closed her eyes. “Shall I braid it?” “Please.” She opened her eyes. “Over the right shoulder, because I like to sleep on my left side.” “What
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish (The Duke's Daughters, #1; Windham, #4))
“
It doesn’t matter what they think. Dance with me.”
He took her hand, and for the first time in a long while, she felt safe. He pulled her to the center of the floor and into the motions of the dance.
Ronan didn’t speak for a few moments, then touched a slim braid that curved in a tendril along Kestrel’s cheek. “This is pretty.”
The memory of Arin’s hands in her hair made her stiffen.
“Gorgeous?” Ronan tried again. “Transcendent? Kestrel, the right adjective hasn’t been invented to describe you.”
She attempted a light tone. “What will ladies do, when this kind of exaggerated flirtation is no longer the fashion? We shall be spoiled.”
“You know it’s not mere flirtation,” Ronan said. “You’ve always known.”
And Kestrel had, it was true that she had, even if she hadn’t wanted to shake the knowledge out of her mind and look at it, truly see it. She felt a dull spark of dread.
“Marry me, Kestrel.”
She held her breath.
“I know things have been hard lately,” Ronan continued, “and that you don’t deserve it. You’ve had to be so strong, so proud, so cunning. But all of this unpleasantness will go away the instant we announce our engagement. You can be yourself again.”
But she was strong. Proud. Cunning. Who did he think she was, if not the person who mercilessly beat him at every Bite and Sting game, who gave him Irex’s death-price and told him exactly what to do with it? Yet Kestrel bit back her words. She leaned into the curve of his arm. It was easy to dance with him. It would be easy to say yes.
“Your father will be happy. My wedding gift to you will be the finest piano the capital can offer.”
Kestrel glanced into his eyes.
“Or keep yours,” he said hastily. “I know you’re attached to it.”
“It’s just…you are very kind.”
He gave a short, nervous laugh. “Kindness has little to do with it.”
The dance slowed. It would end soon.
“So?” Ronan had stopped, even though the music continued and dancers swirled around them. “What…well, what do you think?”
Kestrel didn’t know what to think. Ronan was offering everything she could want. Why, then, did his words sadden her? Why did she feel like something had been lost? Carefully, she said, “The reasons you’ve given aren’t reasons to marry.”
“I love you. Is that reason enough?”
Maybe. Maybe it would have been. But as the music drained from the air, Kestrel saw Arin on the fringes of the crowd. He watched her, his expression oddly desperate. As if he, too, were losing something, or it was already lost.
She saw him and didn’t understand how she had ever missed his beauty. How it didn’t always strike her as it did now, like a blow.
“No,” Kestrel whispered.
“What?” Ronan’s voice cut into the quiet.
“I’m sorry.”
Ronan swiveled to find the target of Kestrel’s gaze. He swore.
Kestrel walked away, pushing past slaves bearing trays laden with glasses of pale gold wine. The lights and people blurred in her stinging eyes. She walked through the doors, down a hall, out of the palace, and into the cold night, knowing without seeing or hearing or touching him that Arin was at her side.
”
”
Marie Rutkoski (The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy, #1))
“
Amy?" he breathed. Two dancers, caught up in the dance, didn't see him standing there and collided with him, nearly knocking him down. "Lord Charles! I beg your pardon!" But he never heard them. He never saw them. He had eyes only for the stunning beauty who was being swept around the dance floor by Gareth's friend Perry. She was a ravishing young woman in shimmering peacock and royal blue whose beauty commanded the eye, the attention, the heart — and made every other woman in the room pale to insignificance. Charles's mouth went dry. His heartbeat cracked his chest and he forgot to breathe. Another set of dancers collided with him, knocking him to his senses. Angrily, he stared into the amused eyes of Gareth's friend Neil Chilcot, another Den of Debauchery member who was partnering a grinning Nerissa. "Gorgeous young woman, isn't she?" quipped Chilcot, sweeping Nerissa past. "You should've stuck around to see her announced, Charles. Not that you'll ever have a chance of claiming a dance with her now, what with all the young bucks before you already waiting . . ." Charles had heard enough. But as he stalked across the dance floor, he heard even more. "Well, His Grace told me she's an heiress . . ." "Not just an heiress, but a princess from some vast Indian nation in America . . ." ". . . came here to offer her tribe's help in the war against the Americans . . ." Charles clenched his fists. Lucien. No one else could have, would have, started and circulated such a preposterously crazy rumor! What the hell was his brother trying to do, get Amy married off to some handsome young swain and out of Charles's life forever? This was no training for a lady's maid, that was for damned sure! His jaw tight, he stormed across the dance floor toward Amy. He saw her hooped petticoats swirling about her legs and exposing a tantalizing bit of ankle with every step she took, the laughter in her face even though she kept glancing over Perry's shoulder in search of someone, the studied grace in her movements that, a week ago, he would've sworn she didn't have. She had not seen him yet, and as Perry, a handsome man who had something of a reputation with the ladies, led her through the steps, Charles felt a surge of jealousy so fierce, so violent, that it made him think of doing something totally irrational. Such as calling Perry out for dancing with his woman. Such as killing Lucien for whatever little game he was playing. Such
”
”
Danelle Harmon (The Beloved One (The De Montforte Brothers, #2))
“
Every now and then she'd see a fine lady in a gorgeous gown that fit her to perfection. Such women didn't have feet, Henry decided. They had rollers - virtually gliding along. And wherever they went, a dozen besotted men followed.
”
”
Julia Quinn (Minx (The Splendid Trilogy, #3))
“
Am I considered a virtuous young lady?"
He surveyed her thoughtfully. The stark black of her dress molded to her lush form, and the neckline, though demure by Lady Barbara's standards, was scandalously low for a proper young lady. Her gorgeous hair hung down her back, and her mouth was soft, damp, abominably kissable.
There were also her eyes. Honey-brown, staring up at him with an unassailable innocence that only a complete fool would miss.
But then, how many people would their time looking in her eyes when there were so many other delectable attributes to gaze upon? "Not likely," he said. "Anyone who spends time in my presence is tainted." He advanced on her slowly, giving her time to run.
She didn't, but she wanted to. He could see the faint startled reflex in her eyes, the momentary flash of panic. But she held firm, tilting her chin up with just a trace of defiance. Poor child. Little did she know that her defiance enchanted him as much as her panic.
He fastened the pearls around her neck, their rich luster luminous against her skin. He resisted the temptation to stroke her bruised flesh, the need to touch his mouth to that abrasion. He resisted the impulse to turn away from her, lock himself in his study, and immerse himself in brandy.
He stepped back, a deceptive half smile on his face. "Lovely," he said.
”
”
Anne Stuart (To Love a Dark Lord)
“
The dresses are indecent," she said stiffly, the rich silk flowing against her body like water.
"But pretty."
She shot him another fulminating glance. His eyes lit with that unholy glint she'd learned to mistrust. "Admit it. It's a gorgeous dress and you look gorgeous in it."
"It's made for a courtesan."
He snorted. "What do you know about courtesans, sweet little lamb?"
She narrowed her eyes. "Knowing about courtesans is no character recommendation."
"Cutting." His smile reeked satisfaction. "Yet still you wear the gown."
"Mrs. Bevan took away my muslin."
"She must need a dishclout."
She didn't know why she argued. Who could object to wearing something so stylish? While the silk might cling to her body, it wouldn't raise an eyebrow in any London salon. Especially on a lady no longer an ingenue. "No respectable woman would wear this dress."
He trailed one finger down her cheek, tracing a prickling path of awareness. "But, amore mio, you're no longer a respectable woman. You're a monster's paramour.
”
”
Anna Campbell (Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed (Sons of Sin, #1))
“
When the spill was cleaned, she reached to take the pot from Gideon’s hands. He didn’t release it. Reluctantly, she raised her head to see if he was angry. It wasn’t anger that darkened his face, but amusement. His dark green eyes danced and his lips pursed, rising on his left side to create the most gorgeous dimple. Her insides
”
”
Misty M. Beller (The Lady and the Mountain Man (Mountain Dreams, #1))
“
No one knew Greek mythology like my friend. He was no doubt running through the entire story in his head. How Prometheus stole fire from the gods and gave it to man. And Zeus decided to punish Prometheus by making a clay figure of a smokin’ hot chick which he then brought to life. The gods gave that lady, Pandora, all sorts of gifts like beauty, charm, wit, and curiosity. Then Zeus gave her a box, told her she was never to open it, and told Prometheus he could have this drop-dead gorgeous girl as a wife. Prometheus wasn’t stupid; he knew it was a trick and said, “No way.” Zeus got ticked off and punished Prometheus by chaining him to a rock and then let a vulture chow down on him. Prometheus’s brother married Pandora, and the couple settled down for a happy life. But Pandora always wondered what was in the box Zeus gave her. Finally her curiosity won out. She opened the box, and out flew hate, anger, sickness, poverty, and every bad thing in the world. She slammed the lid down and managed to trap one final thing in the box: hope. So today, even when the going gets tough, every human still has hope. No
”
”
Erin Fry (Secrets of the Book)
“
It’s all right,” Kat said softly, sitting beside him. “I wasn’t exactly trying to get away. I should have, though—I don’t want to lead you on.” He gave her a look from the corner of his eye. “Meaning you still have no interest in us.” “I think I could if I let myself—I could have feelings for you, anyway,” Kat said honestly. “I mean, you’re sweet and kind and caring and gorgeous—what more could a girl want?” “But?” Lock raised one dark blond eyebrow at her. “But…” she said reluctantly. “You come with an awful lot of baggage. You know what I mean.” “Yes.” He nodded heavily. “Yes, I do. But my lady, if you could just give Deep a chance…” Kat was already shaking her head. “I’m afraid not, Lock, it would never work. Deep and I—we’re like oil and water—we don’t mix. We can’t even have a single conversation without it turning into a shouting match.” Lock’s broad shoulders slumped. “I know he’s difficult to get along with. But he truly does care for you.” “Then why don’t I feel it?” Kat asked. “I get all these strong emotions from you two but what I mostly feel from him is lust and annoyance. He wants me but mostly I irritate him.” “You’re only feeling what he lets himself feel,” Lock protested. “But under all that, he cares. I know he does.” “Maybe you just want him to,” Kat said gently. “Because you two come as a package deal and I can’t take one without the other. Look, I can tell how hard it is for you and I’m sorry—really I am. But aside from the whole feeling both of your emotions thing and the, uh, way you perform bonding sex which is scary to say the least…” she shivered and wrapped her arms around herself. “Aside from that, the fact is, I just can’t let myself get involved with two guys when one of them can’t stand me.
”
”
Evangeline Anderson (Sought (Brides of the Kindred, #3))
“
he found himself rubbing his chest again. So fuckin’ gorgeous. Outside of his close circle of friends and brothers-in-arms, she was the best person he had ever met. “I just hope we can keep going,” she said. Seeing his question, she continued, “The area is slowly being renovated and some of the buildings have been bought. I know they’re cheap…well, cheap if you have several million to buy and renovate. I’ve heard that there’s someone who’s wanting to buy our building, and that would turn all the residents out. But so far, I’m holding on and I’ll fight anyone who tries to take this away from them.” Seeing the passion in her eyes, he found himself wanting all that passion turned his way. Buying the building out from under her? I’ll have Lily and BJ check to see what they can find out. The meal finished too quickly and he knew he needed to get her back to Ross. Standing, he assisted as she slipped into her coat and with fingers laced they walked outside. The night sky was clear and filled with stars. The wind had died down, leaving the early spring chill not as biting as earlier. As they drove to her building, he parked outside. Turning to each other, they both began talking at once. Laughing, he said, “Ladies first.” “I just wanted to thank you. Gabe, I haven’t had so much fun in a really long time.” Fun. That’s what Jobe said to give her. Smiling,
”
”
Maryann Jordan (Gabe (Alvarez Security #1))
“
THE PLAQUE read HARVEY GOULD, P I. It was the middle of the day, but the blinds were closed. Inside a desktop sat flanked by three non-matching chairs, a creased, leather sofa and a bookcase full of fiction.
A middle-aged man lay back with a pair of briefs hanging around his ankles. A gorgeous, young lady was bent over him in a pair of pink panties that stretched over her pert buttocks. Her head was bobbing up and down and her long, thick black hair swished around her neck with each bob. Harvey lay motionless, moaning.
”
”
Simon Palmer (Lost Innocence (Tales From the Land of Smiles))
“
Can one of you do a piercing?” Friday calls. Friday is really pretty in a Katy Perry kind of way. She has tattoos on her shoulders and across her back and up her legs. I know about the ones on her legs because I put them there. She has skulls and cross bones and turtles and some really weird shit. And she dresses all retro, like a pinup girl from the sixties. “What kind of piercing?” I ask. Every gaze in the place turns to the woman, and she flushes. “One of those piercings!” Friday yells dramatically. “Pete can do it,” Paul says. Reagan’s mouth falls open. She walks over close to me. “You are not doing a private piercing,” she hisses. I do them all the time, but I don’t even want to do them anymore. She cups her hand around my ear. “The only private places you’re touching are mine.” My heart swells. I like this. I like it a lot. “Sorry,” I say. “The little lady has spoken.” I lift my face, and she bends down to kiss me. Paul looks at Logan, but Emily signs something to him really quickly and he grins. He shakes his head. “Can’t do it,” he says. “Why not?” Paul blows out a heavy breath. “Because I want to have sex tonight,” Logan says. “And tomorrow night. And the night after.” Sam’s not here. He’s probably baking a cake somewhere. And we all know where Matt is. Paul throws down the pencil on the table where he was drawing a tattoo. “You guys are worthless,” he complains. “And pussy whipped.” I’m happy to be pussy whipped. Logan walks over and high-fives me, and Emily grins at Reagan. “Thanks for taking one for the team,” I say to Paul. It won’t be hard on him. The girl is gorgeous. “The things I have to do so you guys can have sex.
”
”
Tammy Falkner (Calmly, Carefully, Completely (The Reed Brothers, #3))
“
Almost every woman inherently wants to have the 'desirability advantage,' but few are willing to admit not to mention work on it. The following advice is strictly meant for sensual ladies: Don't be afraid to be your most gorgeous self or to look sexy. Yes, it will often give you an unfair advantage, but what's really important is that it will teach you the art of living a sensual lifestyle, an art without which life (and love) would be utterly boring if not depressing.
”
”
Lebo Grand
“
Vane met her wide gaze, and managed not to smile wolfishly- no need to frighten the prey. The view he now had- of delectable curves filling a gown of ivory sprigged muslin in a manner he fully approved- was every bit as enticing as the view that first held him- the gorgeous curves of her derriere clearly delineated beneath taut fabric. When she'd shifted, so had those curves. He couldn't remember when a sight had so transfixed him, had so tantalized his rake's senses.
She was of average height, her forehead level with his throat. Her hair, rich brown, lustrously sheening, was confined in a sleek knot, bright tendrils escaping to wreathe about her ears and nape. Delicate brown brows framed large eyes of hazel brown, their expression difficult to discern in the gloom. Her nose was straight; her complexion creamy. Her pink lips simply begged to be kissed. He'd come within a whisker of kissing them, but tasting an unknown lady before the requisite introductions was simply not good form.
His silence had allowed her to steady her wits; he sensed her growing resistance, sensed the frown gathering in her eyes. Vane let his lips curve. He knew precisely what he wanted to do- to her, with her; the only questions remaining were where and when.
”
”
Stephanie Laurens (A Rake's Vow (Cynster, #2))
“
Before Joseph’s eyes, Louisa’s confidence crumbled. Defending her husband’s decisions in Spain, she’d been magnificent, assured, and unfaltering. One mention of her literary talent, and she wilted like a tender plant in a frost. And that, Sir Joseph would not permit. “A devoted knight offers to his lady the most beautiful verse he can find,” Joseph said. “‘How do I learn the number of kisses needed to satisfy my longing for you?’” Louisa’s head came up. Shock registered in her gorgeous green eyes. “Joseph? You know?” He wanted to declaim the entire poem, the entire volume of poetry, but settled for one more line: “‘So many kisses that no intruding eye could count them, nor any gossiping tongue accurately fix their total, much less their precious worth to me.’” “Joseph, you know? You knew?
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Louisa's Christmas Knight (The Duke's Daughters, #3; Windham, #6))
“
You are being nonsensical, Benjamin. Why are you wearing those clothes?” “Because I did not want my pocket picked, today of all days.” His tone was sober enough that she glanced over at him in puzzlement. “I don’t understand.” “I’m carrying valuables for my lady.” He withdrew a little box from an inside pocket, and Maggie’s heart started trotting around nervously in her rib cage. “Benjamin, what are you about?” “Come.” He took her by the wrist and led her to a low stone wall circling a fountain. “I want to do this properly.” Foreboding mixed with an odd, sentimental thrill as Maggie seated herself on the stone wall. Benjamin took the place beside her, his expression still somber. He flipped open the box, withdrew a gorgeous emerald ring, and tucked the box out of sight again. “With this ring, I plight thee my troth, Maggie Windham.” She watched, dumbstruck, while he took her hand and slid the ring onto the appropriate finger. It was the stone she had picked out—she was almost sure of it—but the setting was nothing she recognized. “You should not be doing this.” She stared at the golden love knot crafted into the setting, stared at it until a teardrop splattered onto the back of her hand. “Oh, Benjamin, this is foolishness. We are not engaged, not truly.” He folded her into his embrace, resting his cheek against her temple. “It has been two weeks, Maggie, or nearly so. I think we are truly engaged.” She shook her head and tried to draw back, but he did not let her go. “I am not with child.” “Your menses have started then?” And still he did not let her go, but damn him, he understood her well enough to make a direct inquiry. “Not yet, but they will. I can feel it.” She would will it to happen, of that she was certain. No woman could conceive a child with this much tension and anxiety swirling in her vitals. “Then we’re still engaged.” “Must you be so stubborn?” He let her go and pulled back far enough to aim a look at her that asked silent, pointed questions about who was being stubborn with whom. “I got a ring for myself, too,” he said. “It’s not fashionable, but my parents observed this custom, and I noted yours do, as well.” “You don’t miss much of anything, do you?” He passed her a gold band that would have been plain, except it was chased with a swirling, interlocking pattern reminiscent of the love knot. “You don’t have to say the words, Maggie, but if you’d oblige me?” He held out his hand, and Maggie felt her heart—already fractured into a hundred sharp, miserable pieces—splinter further. Wordlessly, she took the ring from him and slid it onto the fourth finger of his left hand. “This is not a real engagement, Benjamin Portmaine. I wish it could be, but it cannot.” He kissed her, a sweet, gentle, heartrendingly tender pressing of his lips over hers. “It’s real to me, Maggie Windham. In this moment, sitting here with you, I am betrothed to the only woman I’ve ever wanted for my countess, my wife, and my love.” She
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal (The Duke's Daughters, #2; Windham, #5))
“
I wanted to kiss you,” she said as they waited for Sonnet to be brought out. “When I saw you this morning, whole and healthy. Did you want to kiss me?” In the bright morning sunshine, Louisa’s green eyes sparkled like spring grass wet with dew, and energy fairly crackled around her. And this magnificent, gorgeous woman—who was to be his wife—was confessing to a thwarted urge to kiss him. The grooms were busy in the stable, and the alley was deserted enough that Joseph could be honest. “I find, Louisa Windham-soon-to-be-Carrington, that I am constantly in readiness for your kisses. This state of affairs brings me back to boyhood Christmases, to the sense of excitement and… glee that hung over my holidays. As if delightful developments were always awaiting me.” He
”
”
Grace Burrowes (Lady Louisa's Christmas Knight (The Duke's Daughters, #3; Windham, #6))
“
It was as if I’d stumbled into an eerie dream and was meeting with my own personal gorgeous night terror.
”
”
Kat Blackthorne (Lady Venom Takes a Mistress)
“
They were close enough that she could finally see him clearly.
Her eyes took in the sight of the Scot, standing tall in full Highland dress.
“Oh, delightful,” she muttered to herself. She was at her worst, with seaweed hair streaming water, while Wren had apparently decided to put on his Sunday best.
And didn’t he look absolutely magnificent!
If her heart had not already been doing troublesome things before, it was pounding in brazen excitement as she looked at him now.
This was her husband. Dear Lord. This was her husband.
He was always a very striking man. The cleft of his chin. His sturdy Roman nose. The softness of his dark, sooty lashes over those gorgeous blue eyes. His height, his breadth, his width. His girth? Briar almost giggled. Shush, she told herself.
But now? Gracious, he was unbearably handsome.
There was something about a man in a kilt. Especially the way Wren was wearing it. The dark green Renfrew plaid, shot through with its strands of red and white and gold, was already a lovely thing. Against Wren's form, contrasted against his dark hair, it was a god's finery. Every pleat, every fold fitting his leanly muscled physique.
She swallowed hard, then took another step.
”
”
Fenna Edgewood (Lady Briar Weds the Scot (Blakeley Manor, #1))
“
Тhis is a site where every man can choose for himself a gorgeous girl for an escort. All the girls are individually beautiful, all the characteristics and prices are listed on the website.
”
”
ladys one
“
She would prove her dedication to the Lady—gorgeous strangers and dreams of domestic happiness be damned.13
”
”
Kass O'Shire (A Polar Expedition and Other Stimulating Research Opportunities (Shades of Sanctuary, #1))
“
She pointed to a sundress with bright yellow lemons on it. "That's cute. I love lemons." Ay, Dios mio! Carolina cringed. She sounded like a fool. It was like Baby's "I carried a watermelon" line in Dirty Dancing. Why was she so awkward?
"You'd look stunning in that." Enrique signaled to a woman who worked there.
A saleswoman walked over to them from the back of the shop. She quickly and professionally assessed Carolina's body and then picked one of the bright dresses off the rack. "This should fit you. Shall I put it in a room for you, miss?"
"Sure." Carolina followed her right to the dressing room. The dark hair on her arms stood at full attention and her heart raced. Nerves and anticipation swirled through her--- this whole day seemed like a fantasy, but it was tough for her to just live in the moment.
She undressed and slipped the dress over her head. The soft fabric caressed her body, accentuating her curves. She stared at her figure in the mirror. She looked... sexy. Carolina had never seen herself as sensual, but in this dress, in the soft, warm glow of the dressing room lights, she was a knockout.
The saleswoman had also placed some bright red pumps in the room. Carolina loved high heels and never had a problem walking in them, because she had spent so many years dancing with the Ballet Folklórico. Carolina's eyes practically bugged out of her head when she saw their bottoms, and she stroked the red soles--- they were Louboutins, an identifying detail she knew about from Blanca's endless fashion magazines. Blanca dreamed of owning a pair one day. She would be so jealous. Luckily, they were the same size, so Carolina would let Blanca borrow them.
There was only one problem with Carolina's outfit--- her underwear didn't work with the dress. Her broad, wide bra elastics showed under the thin spaghetti straps, and her panties were too dark.
She leaned out of the curtain. "Ma'am."
The saleslady walked back over to her. "Can I get you something else?"
"Yes. A bra and some panties." Carolina told the lady her sizes, and the lady went around the corner, returning later with an adorable matching yellow lace bra and thong.
A thong.
Her face crinkled. "Do you have anything with, uh, fuller coverage?"
"Of course, dear. But not in the yellow. Do you want to match the bra?"
Carolina did want to match the bra. It was such a cute set. She exhaled, stepping out of her comfort zone and into the lingerie.
She again looked at herself in the mirror. She practically couldn't recognize herself--- a gorgeous young woman on a romantic day trip with a man whom she really liked.
”
”
Alana Albertson (Kiss Me, Mi Amor (Love & Tacos))
“
Sure she's beautiful, but step back a moment. Really look at her objectively. She's not the most gorgeous woman you or I have ever seen.
”
”
Maya Banks (Colters' Lady (Colters' Legacy, #2))
“
Now, Zia, Donato had said. And I played along, mostly because we had shared a split of prosecco with lunch, but also because I felt a lightness I hadn’t felt in years. Like this, Donato directed, angling my chin downward and pulling out my hair clip. You look gorgeous like that! Hannah was in a fit of giggles. It’s no use, I said. Photos of me do not turn out. Donato sent Hannah to ask for another split of prosecco. It’s that cardigan, he said after she’d gone. It is for an old lady. Take it off. I hesitated; he had that teasing look about him again. But that heat at the center tempted me. We are playing a game, I told myself. Bellissimo. Bellissimo. He took the photo. I hurried to put the cardigan back on before my niece returned. Let me see, I said. He held his phone to his chest. For my eyes only. He would not even show Hannah.
”
”
Liska Jacobs (The Worst Kind of Want)
“
Her lady bits stood to attention.
Even from this far away, gorgeousness emitted from him in an invisible cloud of radioactive masculinity that set her sex-Geiger counter into the red. But her brain kicked in before she lost herself in any serious admiration of his hotness.
”
”
Teresa Morgan (Older Woman, Younger Sheikh (Hot Sheikh Romance))
“
Τα χαϊκού της Άνοιξης
Ι.
Στο φόρεμά σου
- Ω, Άνοιξη πανώρια -
Ρόδα ανθίζουν
The haiku of Spring
Ι.
On your dress
- Oh, gorgeous Spring -
roses bloom
ΙΙ.
Το φως του ήλιου
Στα μαλλιά σου στάθηκε
Καλώς σε, Κυρά!
II.
The sunlight
stood still upon your hair
Welcome, my Lady!
Haiku and Translation by Irene Doura-Kavadia
”
”
Irene Doura-Kavadia
“
I give her another once-over, taking in her long, toned legs, her smooth stomach, thankfully visible due to her why-bother-wearing-me top. Her body is drop-dead gorgeous, but when you reach her eyes, they speak nothing of vixen, rather more like pure innocence. A total contradiction that has my mind reeling. “So, what are you supposed to be? A cat?”
She glances at her outfit and sighs, taking another sip of her beer. She almost seems bored to be at the party. “I’m pretty sure I’m supposed to be a panther but my roommates fell short in the costume department.”
“Yeah, really short,” I add, eyeing her barely-there skirt. “Please tell me you’re wearing something under that.”
“Nope,” she answers, sipping her beer and then smacking her lips. “I like to feel the wind in my undercarriage when I’m walking.”
I wince. “Undercarriage? Fuck, I don’t want you to call it that.”
She laughs and shakes her head. “I’m not a lady of the night, Knox. Of course I have something under this skirt.” She lifts up the side, flashing tiny black boy shorts. “Honestly, I’m going to be a librarian. I need to be sensible.”
Sensible? More like hot as fuck. I saw partial ass cheek.
I grip my beer close to my mouth and take a deep breath. “A sensible librarian wouldn’t flash a horny college guy her underwear.”
“Well, maybe I’m more of a modern-day librarian then.” She winks and starts to walk away.
“Hey, where are you going?”
She looks over her shoulder. “I have more people to flash. Don’t think you’re the only lucky one.”
Damn, that doesn’t sit well with me.
Not one fucking bit.
”
”
Meghan Quinn (The Locker Room (The Brentwood Boys, #1))
“
For a few minutes I sat dazed by the sudden flood of light greeting me from the many open windows; then, as the strongly contrasting features of the scene before me began to impress themselves upon my consciousness, I found myself experiencing something of the same sensation of double personality which years before had followed an enforced use of ether. As at that time, I appeared to be living two lives at once: in two distinct places, with two separate sets of incidents going on; so now I seemed to be divided between two irreconcilable trains of thought; the gorgeous house, its elaborate furnishing, the little glimpses of yesterday’s life, as seen in the open piano, with its sheet of music held in place by a lady’s fan, occupying my attention fully as much as the aspect of the throng of incongruous and impatient people huddled about me.
”
”
Anna Katharine Green (ANNA KATHERINE GREEN Ultimate Collection: Amelia Butterworth Series, Detective Ebenezer Gryce Mysteries, The Cases of Violet Strange, Caleb Sweetwater ... Door, The House of the Whispering Pines…)
“
Would you like me to tell you about it? It sits on acres of land. If you can believe it, I dig around in the earth. Me. I’m not going to be joining the garden club anytime soon but there have been carrots.” My laugh punctures the politeness. She relaxes. “We made food and sat on the lawn. I was nervous, but a friend of mine had recently been through cancer and I thought, if she can be here … It was a filthy gorgeous day. I mean really it was greedy of us. Slight breeze. Air you could get drunk on. Even the grass was shining. The food was good, well, the food was okay. We did our best but the steak kebabs were dry. Another friend made a silly remark when she walked outside—a silly joke, but we were crying with laughter. Do you remember, a million years ago, when the old lady walked through the screen door? It was like that. Everyone in a good mood on the same day. I didn’t want it to end. It felt like a sin when the sun set. But then the yard was filled with fireflies. I’d been in the city for so long I forgot about fireflies. I stood in the center of the lawn, everyone stood around me. I said, ‘I’m Simone.’ Everyone said, ‘Hi, Simone.’ That was it. We sat down and ate the crappy kebabs.” She pantomimes eating kebab. Her wrists are thin and mapped with veins, like mine. She holds this woman’s grace and the person I used to know’s ability to entertain with an offhanded gesture. She is simultaneous. Wholly present. Wholly past. Wholly grandmother. Wholly bird. I struggle to lace up my understanding.
”
”
Marie-Helene Bertino (Parakeet)
“
lady?” My whole body tenses. Damn it, I’m caught, my disguise didn’t work! Abort! “You’re no horse buyer. You’re a regular horse whisperer.” I spin, and see an elderly man—a real one—smiling at me with a set of pearl-white veneers. From his tailored three-piece suit, shiny snakeskin boots, and even shinier gold Rolex watch, I can tell right away he’s got money. But his demeanor is friendly. Gentlemanly. Almost bashful. “And such a lovely one, too,” he adds, with the tip of his felt cowboy hat. I realize this old-timer isn’t trying to blow my cover. Far from it. He’s trying to hit on me. “You’re very kind, sir,” I say, forcing an innocent smile. “My name’s Wyland. Cole Wyland.” He gestures at the stallion. “Always been partial to Belgian warmbloods too. Gorgeous creatures, ain’t they?” I’m confused.
”
”
James Patterson (13-Minute Murder: Dead Man Running / 113 Minutes / 13 Minute Murder)
“
Call Girls In Karachi-->03281666653<--Cheap & Sexy Karachi Call Girls
For Booking/Appointment Contact us on these Number:
03210033448
03093803000
03274048030
03281666653
03278838827
03272111153
03010449222
CALL GIRLS IN KARACHI – RS 25000 WITH FREE 24X7 HOTEL DELIVERY
Today, lots of people go to Karachi to conduct business or for other reasons. Some would rather spend time with Karachi girls to relax their mind and body. Finding a gorgeous lady is not an easy job and you should think about contacting an established agency to fulfil the essential needs. Karachi Call Girls Agency is renowned for its standing in the market that provides various types of call girls services in Karachi with affordable rates. We offer our services to all 3* 5*/7* Star Hotels in Karachi. We offer opportunities to discover amazing girls in and in Karachi to share great times with them.
Getting a Unique Sexual Experience in Karachi
Karachi is renowned for its historic sites and other attractions that draw many visitors from different parts of Pakistan. However, people may feel lonely and depressed as a result of their busy life. Our agency lets clients select women to call in Karachi at budget-friendly rates for the most complete pleasure. Additionally, our girls are well-trained and know how to affect the minds of their clients on the bed using professional methods. The other thing to note is that they come from various kinds of backgrounds, allowing customers to be more secure and secure when it comes to sexual activities.
Friendly Call Girls Right Away Within Your Budget
If you want to stick to your budget, our call girls, other than VIP, are the best choice. In our storehouse, we stock our Stunning Call Girls at low prices ranging from 2500 to 15000. A few of the Cheap Call Girls in Karachi have rooms available; however, you will need to reserve rooms for some. Find the perfect call girl that fits your budget by calling us or looking through our rate page, which includes a rate list. It is optional to release cash in advance. However, we expect each customer to attend the meeting on time and make the payment to the call girl before the beginning of the meeting.
Real Photos of Karachi Call Girls
Most men want to spend time with the romantic partner of their dreams to gain more enjoyment and thrill. At Karachi Call Girls, our principal goal is to meet the desires of our clients during sexual interactions. We offer pictures of Karachi call girls and their telephone numbers that allow users to choose a girl. They are, in fact, genuine and are not fake or copied because we don’t promote the use of fakes. Customers can choose the girls they see in the pictures. In addition, they can see numerous photos of call girls on WhatsApp, which could help them gain more ideas.
Getting Updated Karachi Call Girl Pictures Online
Anyone seeking more attractive female companionship could employ call girl services for a shorter duration. Our agency will post the most recent photos of Call Girls in Karachi with contact numbers on the internet so that customers can easily browse through them. Additionally, we’ll send latest images of our call girl to our clients via WhatsApp and clients can reach them directly to inquire about their details, including pricing. Clients also get to spend time with our call girl in their preferred places to build lasting relationships with them.
Photos of Call Girls in Karachi
The expectations of customers may differ when they wish to have a sex session with beautiful girls. This is why we will post the most recent photos of the call girls on our website, and users can choose one after an extensive investigation. Our website will include pictures of models, college student’s models, models, and other national girls, helping clients make wise choices. One can avail of Call Girl services in Karachi
”
”
Call Girls in Karachi
“
Call Girls in Lahore || 03210033448 || Beautiful & Sexy Girls Available 24/7
For Booking/Appointment Contact us on these Number:
03210033448
03093803000
03274048030
03281666653
03278838827
03272111153
03010449222
CALL GIRLS IN LAHORE – RS 25000 WITH FREE 24X7 HOTEL DELIVERY
Today, lots of people go to Lahore to conduct business or for other reasons. Some would rather spend time with Lahore girls to relax their mind and body. Finding a gorgeous lady is not an easy job and you should think about contacting an established agency to fulfil the essential needs. Lahore Call Girls Agency is renowned for its standing in the market that provides various types of call girls services in Lahore with affordable rates. We offer our services to all 3* 5*/7* Star Hotels in Lahore. We offer opportunities to discover amazing girls in and in Lahore to share great times with them.
Getting a Unique Sexual Experience in Lahore
Lahore is renowned for its historic sites and other attractions that draw many visitors from different parts of Pakistan. However, people may feel lonely and depressed as a result of their busy life. Our agency lets clients select women to call in Lahore at budget-friendly rates for the most complete pleasure. Additionally, our girls are well-trained and know how to affect the minds of their clients on the bed using professional methods. The other thing to note is that they come from various kinds of backgrounds, allowing customers to be more secure and secure when it comes to sexual activities.
Friendly Call Girls Right Away Within Your Budget
If you want to stick to your budget, our call girls, other than VIP, are the best choice. In our storehouse, we stock our Stunning Call Girls at low prices ranging from 2500 to 15000. A few of the Cheap Call Girls in Lahore have rooms available; however, you will need to reserve rooms for some. Find the perfect call girl that fits your budget by calling us or looking through our rate page, which includes a rate list. It is optional to release cash in advance. However, we expect each customer to attend the meeting on time and make the payment to the call girl before the beginning of the meeting.
Real Photos of Lahore Call Girls
Most men want to spend time with the romantic partner of their dreams to gain more enjoyment and thrill. At Lahore Call Girls, our principal goal is to meet the desires of our clients during sexual interactions. We offer pictures of Lahore call girls and their telephone numbers that allow users to choose a girl. They are, in fact, genuine and are not fake or copied because we don’t promote the use of fakes. Customers can choose the girls they see in the pictures. In addition, they can see numerous photos of call girls on WhatsApp, which could help them gain more ideas.
Getting Updated Lahore Call Girl Pictures Online
Anyone seeking more attractive female companionship could employ call girl services for a shorter duration. Our agency will post the most recent photos of Call Girls in Lahore with contact numbers on the internet so that customers can easily browse through them. Additionally, we’ll send latest images of our call girl to our clients via WhatsApp and clients can reach them directly to inquire about their details, including pricing. Clients also get to spend time with our call girl in their preferred places to build lasting relationships with them.
Photos of Call Girls in Lahore
The expectations of customers may differ when they wish to have a sex session with beautiful girls. This is why we will post the most recent photos of the call girls on our website, and users can choose one after an extensive investigation. Our website will include pictures of models, college student’s models, models, and other national girls, helping clients make wise choices.
”
”
Poetry of Dhiman (Strong Enough: Poetry & Prose for Hope, Healing & Selflove)
“
Escorts in Islamabad | +923274048030 | Islamabad Escorts & Top Call Girls.
For Booking/Appointment Contact us on these Number:
+923210033448
+923093803000
+923274048030
+923281666653
+923278838827
+923272111153
+923010449222
slamabad Escorts | Need Female call girls in Islamabad? Contact us
Are you looking for beautiful, young female companions in the capital region of Islamabad? We asked you this since we’re eligible for your pleasure for high-profile, beautiful Islamabad Escorts Girls. If you’ve been on your own for a while, then your time has come to an end. We’re here to present the most important services available within Islamabad and provide you with the best. We are talking about the escort service in Islamabad with an array of the most beautiful Call Girls in Islamabad.
We go into the depths of our souls to see our desires, and that is what keeps us ahead of all the others. It is a real challenge being alone in this beautiful city of the country. Islamabad call girls could be an excellent option for spending quality time with loved ones and having romantic dates. The most significant part is that these professional lovers are offered at affordable costs.
Escorts in Islamabad will satisfy you by sensual massaging
We offer gorgeous maiden escorts for Islamabad that will satisfy you by sensual massaging with a dick. It’s ‘a paid female escort’. It’s a bit difficult to find a trustworthy person for free unless you’re not attractive; therefore, don’t be afraid to shell out money for something satisfying to you. All things are paid for in this modern world. Even the lifestyle you’re living is a loan for a few years. Services for escorting in Islamabad have been an excellent alternative for many pleasure seekers over the years.
Most importantly, you have to be aware that escorting and prostitution are two distinct sides of the rope. It is impossible to put the two in the same category, but combining it with dating agencies and friendship isn’t offensive. We’ll learn more about these service providers in Islamabad for both adult and young males. The unique characteristics and benefits are listed below.
Islamabad escorts are an excellent choice to enjoy
Independent Islamabad escorts– Everyone dislikes limitations; however, this aversion increases in love. The slightest resentment from your partner can turn out to be an issue, and you can avoid this by hiring independent call girls in Islamabad. Independent Islamabad escorts are an excellent choice to enjoy the romance of your life in many ways. These girls are teachers, doctors, engineers, and even college students.
Housewife escorts to Islamabad, and X-sized hips, full-size boobs, and stunning seductive moves are all the hallmarks of the housewife. If you like to go crazy on the bed, then taking these ladies as your mates is the ideal way to go. They are just as they are mature and show their character according to the demands of their partners. If you’re looking for someone to have fun with sex with, you should look into housewife escorts for Islamabad.
#low price Escort in Islamabad || #Islamabad Escort || #Islamabad Escort contact no || #Escorts in Islamabad || #Escort Islamabad || #Islamabad escort Escort || #Escort Islamabad number || #Islamabad Escorts service || #Islamabad Escorts numbers || #cheap Islamabad escorts || #Islamabad Escorts number || #Islamabad Escort number || #Islamabad cheap escort service || #Escort numbers || #Islamabad Escort mobile number || #Islamabad Escort contact number || #Escorts service in Islamabad || #Islamabad Escort no || #Escort number Islamabad || #escort girls in Islamabad || #Islamabad cheap escorts || #cheap escort service in Islamabad || #Escort service in Islamabad || #Escort service Islamabad || #Escort Number || #Sex Girl Number || #Escorts Islamabad || #Islamabad Escort service || #Escort Contact Number
”
”
Islamabad Escorts