The Tiger Within Read Online Free Page B

mean for it to happen, but the fault is still mine.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek, knowing it would create a stir but not caring. “It was beautiful and pure. There is no shame in it. Most of the women and all of the men in this room have felt that pleasure, and want it again. It is usually in a more private place and more difficult to achieve,” he gave her a half smile, “but it is still the same. Even your father has experienced it.” He said with a pointed look at Lord Euston. “It is nothing to be ashamed of.” With that he bent his head and lightly kissed her lips and turned to her father. “Lord Euston, I think it would be prudent to announce our betrothal. We wouldn’t want anyone to get the wrong idea about Amelia’s virtue or what has happened here.”
    Amelia gasped and looked to her father.
    Lord Euston scowled, but nodded his agreement. “I think sooner would be best. I will speak to Featherton. Can I leave her with you without another incident?” He asked and pinched the bridge of his nose.
    “Of course.” Henry inclined his head to Lord Euston and watched as he made his way to their host.
    “Amelia, are you alright?” He asked as he placed her delicate hand on his arm.
    “You do not have to do this. You do not have to marry me.” She looked at him with wide, tear-filled eyes and shook her head.
    “I want nothing more in all the world. You must know that you are more to me than any other ever could be.” Henry smiled down into her beautiful face.
    His words warmed her and she smiled up at him. “Very well then.”
    “Shall we make our way into the dining hall so your father can announce our intentions?”
    She smiled and nodded and allowed him to lead her into the dining room
    .
     

 
     
    Chapter Six
     
    As they entered the room all eyes turned, at least all male eyes turned toward them. Amelia could feel the malice in some and the lust of others. Her mind was bombarded with foreign thoughts. She felt flushed. She needed air. She was beginning to panic.
    After the announcement they were congratulated by everyone. It seemed every person in the room had touched her. She felt so unwell she was afraid she would swoon. Henry quickly became engulfed in conversation with the gentleman at his left and was no help to her at all. Her heart was racing and she began to gasp for air. Then she looked up into the deep brown eyes of her childhood friend, Charles.
    “Amelia. Are you well?”
    “I am unsure My Lord.”
    “Would you permit me to escort you to the balcony for a bit of air?”
    “Yes,” she gasped. “No, I mean I really should stay here.”
    “I fear you must.” Charles looked sadly down at her as he took her arm in a strong grip that she would normally find insulting, but due to her lack of air she did not complain. They had almost reached the doors when Lady Euston stepped in front of them.
    “Amelia, my dear. Hello Charles.” Lady Charlotte intercepted them on their way out.
    “My Lady. Please excuse us. Amelia is not feeling well and it seems the Scottish fellow you have paired her with has little concern for her.” He spat distastefully. “I intend to take her for some air.”
    “I expect you do, but I must insist that she come with me now. I’m sure you will not deny me this Charles.”
    Charles tightened his grip on Amelia’s arm and glared at her mother. “I’m sure you would not want her to feel uncomfortable. She should have some air.”
    At his words Amelia began to gasp desperately for air.
    Lady Euston smiled serenely and reached out to remove his hand from her daughter. At her touch he jerked his hand away as if he’d been burned and stared at her horrified.
    “What are you?”
    “No one you should trifle with I assure you. Now I find it very difficult to say this, but due to your ill treatment of my daughter and your rudeness toward me, I will no longer welcome you into my home. You have proven to be less than trustworthy. I bid you