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After exiting the library, Anthony Strallan, anxious to take his leave, quickly made his way down the hall and out the great doors of the Abbey. The older gentleman hadn't bothered having the car brought round, instead opting to collect his keys and fetch the vehicle himself. It was only after settling back in the driver's seat that he allowed himself to reflect on the kiss.
He shook his head, mentally scolding himself for his appalling conduct. Having such disrespect for his hosts as a guest in their home. And with their daughter no less. What on earth had he been thinking. Kissing a young lady he barely knew. Truth was, he'd not been thinking at all just physically responding to the fiesty redhead who seemed, even though they'd only recently met, to know exactly how to push his buttons. The fact that the tall blonde also found himself extremely attracted to Edith hadn't helped matters.
The couple had gotten off to a rocky start upon literally bumping into each other in Ripon. Tonight, Edith continued to behave unpleasantly and their unexpected encounter in the library had led to more bickering, the only type of interaction of which the two seemed capable. Somehow the subject of marriage and physical relations had arisen resulting in Edith expressing disappointment and disdain towards both. And Anthony, for some unbeknownst reason took it upon himself to attempt to change her opinion on such matters.
The baronet gave a self satisfied smirk. Judging from the strawberry blonde's reaction, he thought it safe to say, the young woman had found the feel of his lips pressed to hers rather enjoyable. Truth be told, Anthony was a bit suprised that Edith hadn't slapped his face or at least pushed him away. Instead, she'd moaned, in the most delicious tone and pressed her curvy body even closer to his, eliciting a primal response that shot like a bolt of electricity through his tired old body. With his blood coursing to one particular area of his anatomy, Anthony had forced himself to step away. If he hadn't managed to gain control of the situation, and his body, he might have taken her then and there. He'd certainly been tempted by the thought of Edith's lovely body pressed up against the shelves, her lips panting his name in pleasure while he pumped into her wet warmth and if the young woman's response was any indication she was as eager as he. Thinking just how wet and warm her body must have been, Anthony groaned and turning the ignition headed home to take a cold shower. In the meantime, he hoped to come up with an excuse to see the high strung middle daughter of Lord and Lady Grantham in the very near future.
After speaking with Edith in the library, the Countess returned to gala feeling rather smug. Asking if Sir Anthony had enjoyed the evening so far, the lady was delighted to see her middle daughter blush a rosy pink. I should probably see after him, Edith had stuttered. Wouldn't want you or Papa to be embarrassed by my bad manners. When Cora informed her that the baronet had already left, the young woman stood abruptly, clearly agitated. Feigning a headache, the strawberry blonde made her excuses and retired to her room.
Yes, there was definitely chemistry between the two. Now, getting them in the same room once again. That was the next step. In two weeks, the Crawley's were hosting a dinner party in honor of Mary and Matthew's recent engagement. Cora grinned wickedly. Tomorrow, Anthony Strallan would receive yet another invitation to Downton.
"Cora, my dear" Robert's voice interrupted her scheming, "you seem to be particularly enjoying tonight's festivities."
"Yes" his wife beamed, accepting the flute of champagne her husband offered. "Seemingly, things are going quite splendidly."
In her room, Edith paced back and forth trying with all her might to rid herself of the sensations Anthony's kiss had evoked. Her body thrummed and ached with desire, though, she was loathe to admit it. What was it about this man, a man old enough to be her father that filled her with such raw lust. And he knew it too. Anthony Strallan was completely aware of the effect he had on her. Of that Edith was certain and yet, unlike so many other men who would have pressed their advantage, he'd stopped. Given her a taste of just how consuming passion could be and then casually bid her goodnight. Infuriating that's what he was. A combination of infuriating, intoxicating, and deliciousness was this man, wrapped up in one exquisitely enticing package . And, heaven help her, she wanted more!