God help him, he had almost forgotten the impossible softness of her skin. The kiss lasted far longer than either intended, until at last they drew apart, their breaths were uneven, lips swollen.
Only then did Livia step back. A mental groan passed through him. Livia lowered her gaze, smoothing the edge of her bodice back into place with trembling fingers.
Henry wanted to kiss her again.
Naturally.
He drew in a slow breath. "I…" He cleared his throat, attempting to recover some portion of royal authority. It was difficult while staring at her mouth. "I must go and see the Lord Chancellor. There is much to smooth over."
"Yes," she said softly. "I imagine there is."
"Shall I come back?" he asked.
The hope in his own voice embarrassed him. Livia lifted her eyes to his. He saw the struggle in her clearly.
She gave the smallest nod. "Of course. I shall go and see Lady Bella in the meantime...Surely she has some gossip for me."
