Chapter 7

June felt her heart leap out of her chest at Hardin's words, her lips parted as she tried to say something but there was nothing coming to her head. That kiss had done something to her and she knew deep down Hardin could see it in her eyes.

They both remained still staring deep into their eyes but that brief moment of blissful oblivion was shattered when the maid unexpectedly entered the room.

Startled by what was going on, she quickly averted her eyes and mumbled an apology, "I'm sorry for interrupting. I didn't know you had company, Sir." Her face turned crimson as she hastily headed back inside.

Hardin and June exchanged a sheepish glance before breaking into a light chuckle. "It's quite alright, Maria" Hardin reassured the flustered maid stopping her on her track as she turned around bowing her head to them.

"June, this is Maria, your new housekeeper."

Maria nodded, still blushing, and extended a polite greeting, "Nice to meet you, Ma'am. If you nee