Chapter 9

“My vision,” I began, my stomach twisting into nervous knots at the same instance other parts of my body pulsated with a heat brought on by Jasper’s presence. “I was engaged in very carnal activities…” My cheeks and ears burned pink and my fingers went to my lips, stifling a girlish giggle.

“Carnal activities with whom?” Jasper posed the question.

I cleared my throat and raised my chin defiantly. “I fail to see why that is necessary to your experiment, show yourself out.” My nightdress, swished around me as I turned away.

The sensation of his warm hand on my shoulder made me still. “Was it with me?”

I plainly saw that I hadn’t given Jasper enough credit for his keen intuition. “Yes. Do you still believe your stupid rock shows the beholder their deepest desire?”

“I told you about my vision, Lydia.”

I harrumphed, stopping him. “Your grand desire to return to Cambridge and receive highest merits for your work.”

“With you.”