#Chapter 54 The Kiss (Almost)

I immediately raised my hand to cover my mouth. I cringed when I felt Arthur’s lips make contact with the back of my hand. This was something that I would not easily get out of. As he removed his lips, I slowly lowered my hand. I watched as his eyes opened and color flooded his cheeks. “I am so sorry,” Arthur offered before I could say anything. “I got caught up in the moment. I was just so excited for you and let it get the better of me, that’s all.” My heart ached for him. The poor man was so embarrassed. “It’s all right,” I said, smiling slightly. “It happens to all of us.” He smiled back, but I could see that it didn’t reach his eyes. “We best get to work,” he said. He motioned toward the table. “After you, my little fan.” - * * That night after all my appointments, I couldn’t stop thinking about my almost-kiss with Arthur. I could still feel his lips on the back of my hand, like an awkward reminder of how close