Rules of Decorum

by Leigh Lee

  “You have been through a lot and are recovering from a grave illness. There is no need to apologize,” he murmured as he slipped back into the chair next to her bed. “Perhaps I should give you more time. This is a lot for one day. I will return tomorrow night. For the time being, we should concentrate on you regaining your health.”

  She nodded, unable to meet his eyes. “I suppose I am sleepy. Could you ask Mrs. Stewart if I could have some tea?”

  Over the next week, Jeff visited Miss Johnson every evening, spending hours with her and often staying until long after she fell asleep. She had no idea of how frequently he would fall asleep himself and spend at least a portion of the night in the overstuffed chair, nor of the reluctance did he feel each time left her side.

  As she grew stronger, Jeff dreaded the day when she would no longer need him. Everything about her attracted him. Indeed, Miss Eugenia Johnson was irresistible. Repeatedly during his ministrations, his gaze happened upon where the thin nightgown revealed the outline of her breasts. It was a daily battle to retain his professionalism and he berated himself for lust that threatened to stampede out of control. He was a man, for God’s sake and as a man, he ached to touch her. Fondling Victoria Winfred’s breasts had been a terrible accident, but he knew in his soul if he reached out to touch Eugenia’s tender flesh there would be clear intent.

  ~*~*~

  The time with Captain Bradford became the high point of Eugenia’s days, and she eagerly awaited each visit. It was a pleasure to converse with him not as his sergeant—one under his command—but as a woman. Eugenia had never realized how far the deceit had alienated her from not only him, but also from everyone else she had met. True to his word, the captain guarded against exerting any stress on her and kept the conversations light. His wit and sense of humor delighted Eugenia, and she treasured their discussions, especially those about medicine.

  One evening the doctor suggested they go for a stroll down the lane, saying some gentle exercise might help strengthen her legs. Draped in one of Mrs. Stewart’s thick shawls and clinging to his arm, she walked beside him, enjoying the cold night air.

  This night Captain Bradford finally broached questions involving her time spent as his sergeant. “How did you come to be in possession of the spy’s letter?”

  Eugenia recounted how she had been with the soldier before he died and that he had asked her to post a letter. She was quick to add that he had given his name as Fred and with all her new duties, she had merely forgotten about the letter until later when she discovered it still in her pocket. “I was trying to leave it on your desk.”

  His brows shot up. “In the middle of the night? Could you not have waited until the next day?”

  With the mention of that night, the vivid image of his naked body standing in the light of the lantern wreaked havoc on her composure. Failing to suppress those memories, she dared not look at him. Heat spread from her cheeks down to the neckline of her nightgown. She tried to provide an answer. “I—I could not sleep. Once I learned of the letter’s utmost importance, I felt duty bound to deliver it to you immediately. Given the nature of the content, I thought it best to leave it anonymously.”

  “Anonymously?”

  More warmth flooded her cheeks. “I had too much at stake disguised as a male. I thought it too much of a risk should anyone start delving into my past—start asking questions I could not answer. In the end, I might be uncloaked and thought a spy as well.”

  “Ah, I see. So you read the letter,” Captain Bradford summarized with a smile.

  Recalling the anger she had felt after reading it, brought heightened hue to her face. “Yes, and I am glad I did. Though I did not suspect it before, I became convinced that James was writing to Victoria Winfred. I should have known she was up to no good,” she blurted. Too late, she realized her impassioned reaction revealed more than she intended. She sought to move on, hoping the doctor had not noticed, but only managed to ensnare herself again. “And then you returned before I had time to leave and—” Her voice trailed off as visions of his nakedness filled her mind for the nth time.

  He chuckled lightly. “Yes, I’ve relived that night myself, and often. That was a shock to be sure.” His grin was rueful, as he raked one hand through his hair. “Indeed, it was more staggering to discover my sergeant was female than to be surprised in the middle of the night without a stitch of clothing. The latter was at least amusing.” He glanced at the flush deepening on her cheeks and grimaced. “I apologize for my candor. I should not have revealed that part.”

  Amusing was certainly not the term she would use to describe that night. “There is no need. I am sure it was a shock. Perhaps we should talk of something else?”

  He glanced away as if trying to refocus. “Yes, of course,” he agreed.

  By now, they were back at the house. “Captain? Do you mind if we sit out on the porch a bit before going in?”

  “As you wish,” he said and helped her sit, before lowering himself beside her on wooden steps.

  Eugenia looked up at the starry night. “It is a beautiful sight,” she sighed.

  “Mmm.”

  After a moment, she became aware the captain’s attention was not focused on the sky above, but rather on her breasts, which were partially visible through the thin gown. She clutched the shawl more tightly about her shoulders. “Forgive me. I must take more caution,” she murmured.

  Dragging his eyes away, he turned beet red. Clearing his throat, he rose and began to pace. “Ah, about Miss Winfred. Unbeknownst to her, I wrote to an old acquaintance of mine in the hope of finding information concerning her brother. The response I received was rather shocking, for there is no record of a Lt. James Winfred ever having enlisted in the Confederate Army. It was then that it occurred to me she might possibly be a spy. That was why I had Sergeant Adams—er—you—go with me to attend each meeting. I needed a witness to confirm anything that I might learn. None of which is necessary since the matter now lies in the hands of Army Intelligence.”

  Eugenia paid careful attention to the captain as he spoke. He was acting out of sorts tonight, and she was trying to figure out what might be his problem. Her eyes narrowed as a possible reason for his behavior occurred to her. Since she had known him, the only time he acted this cloddish was when Victoria was around. Did he miss the woman? Did he wish Victoria sat beside him now rather than her? Eugenia’s answer was fueled by jealousy. “I could have told you all that. I never trusted the witch!”

  Her vehement response stopped him in his tracks. He faced her full on. There was an absurd look of delight on his face. “You seem very concerned with Miss Winfred. Why is that?”

  The goading provocation in his voice was undeniable as he stood contemplating her with crossed arms. It forced Eugenia to scramble for a plausible response. “Me?” she asked. “It is just that I—I do not care for her. She is more an actress than the lady she purports to be. That is all,” she huffed, avoiding his stare.

  “That is all? Funny, I find myself thinking back to the time when I gave you an order, and you refused to obey it.” His eyes chased hers about as she evaded his perusal. “You do remember the instance of which I speak, Miss Johnson?”

  Yes. The occasion was quite clear in Eugenia’s mind—and something she did not wish to discuss. She glanced up at him, strong, tall, and so very handsome. She rolled her eyes in exasperation and then concentrated on her clasped hands. “Yes, that is one day I wish to forget. Why must we speak of it now?” she asked, piqued.

  “Will you tell me why you refused to obey my direct order?” He lifted his brows, awaiting an answer. If that damnable smile plastered across his handsome face was not hint enough, the twinkling blue eyes peering upon her proved he was not about to be diverted from the topic at hand.

  Eugenia scrambled for a justifiable reason. A slow, relenting sigh hissed through her lips. “As I told you before, I did not wish to get involved in a dalliance between you and that woman.”

  “Tha
t woman?” He sat down next her, fixing her with a disconcerting stare. “Well, let me see. Funny, but as I look back on that day, it occurs to me there may have been another reason for your behavior.”

  Knowing it was a mistake to ask, she did so anyway. “Such as?”

  “Such as—perhaps—jealousy.”

  “Jealousy?” Eugenia forced a sarcastic snort his way hoping to deter further questioning. Her shoulders straightened, and she clutched the shawl tighter. “Captain! That is preposterous. Jealousy would require a level of caring.” she insisted.

  “Exactly my point.” he pressed. “Even now you display anger at the very mention of Miss Victoria Winfred. I wonder, Miss Johnson, how else to consider it.”

  Eugenia’s eyes studied his chiseled features briefly before finding her nails keenly interesting. “You do not know what you are talking about.”

  He shrugged, spreading his arms wide. “Enlighten me then. Give me a plausible explanation for such a passionate display, and I shall believe your every word.”

  Surprised at his persistence, she let her gaze settle on his for a moment. The thrill in his blue depths had her quickly looking away again. “I just do not approve of that woman,” she finally muttered.

  “What concern was it of yours to approve or disapprove of her?” he asked, lifting his shoulders.

  She stomped her foot in frustration. If he sought to arouse her temper, he would see it now. “Ugh! You were blind. The conniving witch strung you along so swimmingly that you never came up for air long enough to notice the one who really cared!” Abject embarrassment replaced her anger as soon as she realized how much she had just revealed.

  Twisting around to face her, his eyes widened in mock horror. “You are jealous,” he announced with certainty.

  Her denial was swift. “Of course not. I was merely concerned for your welfare.”

  “Forgive me, Miss Johnson, I do not mean to belabor the issue. I am still trying to understand what occurred that day.” He chuckled. “Yet might I assume—are you admitting—that you do have a care for me?”

  The man was an excellent interrogator and the way his eyes twinkled told her he was feeling very much in control. However, she had not survived the last three years without some cunning of her own. “You are twisting my words.” She sniffed with irritation. “I said no such thing.”

  The captain laughed and leaned forward, causing her to shrink back. “I think you did. Miss Johnson, you are sweet on me,” he teased.

  Eugenia fell into silent humiliation. Death might be more favorable to the abject mortification she felt. There was no way she could meet his eyes, for she knew the truth, the deep love she felt for him would be shining in hers. What was it Mrs. Stewart had said about the delirious declarations of love she had made to the captain while she was sick? Her discomfort increased. “What atrocities did I blubber during the throes of fever?”

  “Really, Miss Johnson?” A flash of undeniable longing appeared on his face, and he leaned closer. “You are going to blame the fever for your confessions?”

  Feeling very much like the trapped rat, Eugenia felt heat rushing into her face. Never had her feelings been so deftly unmasked. Did he mock her? “Confessions? I must say it is very arrogant of you to suggest such a thing.”

  Those all-seeing eyes swept her face. “And that is a blatant lie, Miss Johnson.” His victorious gleam was unnerving.” Suppose we put it to the test?”

  Her heart lurched in response, and her traitorous body trembled with anticipation of his closeness as he scooted a fraction closer. “What sort of test?”

  “A kiss. Give me one kiss. If you do not find it agreeable, then I will accept your claim that you hold no affection for me.” He wagged his finger. “But you must be truthful. Is that possible?”

  “One kiss?” Eugenia scoffed.

  “One.” He leaned back, resting his elbows on the porch rail, the thrill of challenge resplendent in his blue eyes.

  “This is ridiculous.”

  The captain was not easily deflected. “Admit it. You are afraid you might swoon.” He snapped his fingers. “I suppose I win by default.”

  Surely, he did not just claim victory before the deed was done. “If you insist, I shall play your foolish game.” Soaring high on the bravery of indignation, she leaned forward and pecked him on the prickly beard of his cheek. “There! Still conscious.”

  The captain roared with laughter. “What an adorable little cheat you are! You call that a kiss? My saintly mother kisses me with more enthusiasm! Come,” he urged, leaning closer. “Kiss me, sweet Eugenia.” He tapped his lips indicating her target. “Right here.”

  His bold, familiar use of her given name tantalized. Of all the ways she had dreamed of kissing him, this was not one. His enjoyment of the confrontation shone a bit too bright in his eyes for her liking. He had to be mad as a hatter. Yet, as he goaded her, she had a hard time denying her heart had skipped several beats at the prospect. He had thrown down the gauntlet, and she must now take up the challenge or forever feel a coward, if not the ultimate loser.

  “Very well,” she replied, rallying her courage. She raised her eyes just in time to catch a glimpse of gloating victory on his face. Such arrogance told her he already had her served up on the platter as the clear loser.

  Pursing her lips, she leaned toward him until she could smell his clean, spicy scent. The sight of his mouth curling up at the corners steeled her resolve. If it were possible to wipe the egotistical grin off his face, she would do it. Tilting her chin, she closed her eyes and met his lips with unexpected force that almost drove him backward.

  The contact was staggering. Eugenia had never kissed a man before, but instinct told her how. Sweet sensations flooded her senses as her lips moved over his, savoring the taste of him. My goodness. How soft and pleasantly yielding his lips were. When he kissed her back, she couldn’t help herself. Her hands flew to either side of his face pulling him closer. Her brain turned to mush. This was even better than her wildest dreams.

  As her lips caressed his, he granted her the lead, allowing her to take it where she would. When at last she drew back, she watched for a hint of his reaction. When he opened his eyes, she gained a private moment of glee. The stupefied amazement she saw upon his handsome face left no doubt. She had indeed brought the arrogant captain down a peg or two.

  There was no time to revel in her glory for an instant later, he lifted her from the porch step and deposited her onto his lap. His arms slipped around her, and he stared down at her mouth. “Now, I would have my turn,” he avowed, his voice laced with husky emotion.

  Her eyelids lowered. His tempting lips were close. Her heart pounded with so heady a desire, she could not muster more than a few weak words. “You shouldn’t.”

  “Yes. I. Should.” With suddenness, his lips pressed to hers. His kiss was more fervent—the kiss of a man with unheeded desire coursing through his veins. Crushing, searching, and demanding, he compelled from her surrender. A rapturous moan escaped him when she yielded, melted in his arms.

  If Eugenia thought the first kiss was thrilling, this one far surpassed it. Sensations she had not known possible awakened in her. Reaching up, she curled her fingers into the thick dark hair she had longed to touch many times over. She pressed nearer, and the captain answered by gathering her into an embrace so close that she could feel the savage beating of his heart against hers.

  Unbridled love was etched on his face when he leaned away. Still breathing hard, he stared at her, outwardly savoring the experience they had just shared. With great reluctance, he lifted her from his lap and deposited her back on the porch. He took her hand holding it for a long moment, as if unwilling to break away from her.

  Eugenia blushed. Of all the times she had dreamed of him, never had she thought his kiss would be so wonderful. His ardor had been apparent when he lifted her onto his lap. The tenderness with which his strong arms enveloped her seemed to confirm what she had hoped for and imagined. Even in he
r passionate haze, she had not missed the smitten look on his face as soon as he pulled away. He felt something for her as well.

  Relishing this amazing discovery, Eugenia batted her eyes. “It was you who almost swooned.”

  Jeff blinked disbelief. “You incorrigible minx, dare you bait me?” He moved in for another kiss. “This time I will render you so breathless, you will not be able to toss around sassy taunts.”

  As he bent near her, an unexpected “Ahem” startled them both.

  Chapter 16

  Of all the damnable luck! Jeff cursed inwardly as he rose to his feet. Maddie Stewart stood in the open doorway holding a tray. “I thought you might like to join us for some tea, doctor.”

  At present, Jeff felt the need for something far stronger than tea. Switching from the seducer to the physician was taxing considering his thundering heart, but he hoped he could achieve a modicum of professionalism as he answered her. Tugging at his collar, he cleared his throat. “Ah, Mrs. Stewart. I am pleased to say that our patient is recovering quite well.” Reaching down, he helped Eugenia stand. “I agree. Tea is exactly what we need.”

  Maddie cocked her head to one side and eyed him with concern. “Doctor, you look a mite flushed. I hope you are not coming down with Miss Johnson’s sickness.”

  Mrs. Stewart’s observation brought about an unexpected fit of laughter from Miss Johnson. “He does appear about ready to swoon,” she dissolved into bubbly giggles that had her almost collapsing into his arms. “Had you not come just when you did—” she was forced to stop and gulp air before continuing, “—I fear he may have dropped, face first.”

  “Thank you for that,” Jeff said frowning at his patient. “I think you’ve had enough excitement for one evening.” In return, she had further nerve to taunt him with a saucy salute, her eyes daring him to retaliate. The brazen act left him sorely tempted to carry out his threat with Mrs. Stewart in attendance.