The evening sunset bathed her room in an orange glow, but she was far too distracted by her afternoon with Cross to observe the beauty of the light. Just what was happening? Biting her lip she paused before the hearth, watching the golden flames lick hungrily at the wood. Was he playing the part? Was he actually pursuing her? Was that what he had meant when he said that she was the only one who agreed to play along? What did that even mean? And how was it that she had known him her whole life—or most of it—and never felt so… she didn't know what to call it. But was a pull, an… Attraction. Essie gasped. That was the strange sensation that completely muddled her mind whenever she was around him! It was maddening, it was… delightful. But Cross? Of all people—rather, of all gentlemen—Cross was the one to create such a powerful lure. But hadn't she felt attraction before? For pity sakes, she had been betrothed not a fortnight ago! Of course, that was obsolete now, but surely she had felt attraction for Trighton.
