Her Devious Scoundrel

Chapter 15

After what seemed like hours, the two travelers were finally on their way. Penelope was excited for the journey, now that she was dressed as a boy, she had a sudden feeling of freedom that she had never had before. Even movement was simpler, without the burden of several layers of heavy fabric, her body felt light and at ease. Though the only draw back was that without all those layers her bottom was directly against the hard leather of the saddle and after just an hour riding, she became very sore.

She had to keep resettling her position to relieve the aching joints of her hips.

However, despite her slight discomfort, she had never felt so alive, though she did not think Johnathan felt the same excitement she did. With their position atop the horse, and her lack of traditional clothing, she could practically feel every muscle in his body and all of them were rigid with tension. Every time she adjusted herself she heard his sharp intake of breath, and soft mutterings. She felt bad for him, since neither were used to such long hours in the saddle nor were they used to sharing a seat. Penelope wriggled once more attempting to soothe the bruising in her buttocks.

The day passed slowly as Johnathan and Penelope rode the old mount they had acquired from the inn. Penelope had started the day in high spirits, but as the sun reached it’s peak, her excitement had dwindled. Which was perfectly fine with Johnathan, as she had finally stopped wiggling in the saddled. The last half day had been the most uncomfortable of Johnathan’s life, with Penelope sitting in front of him, every movement she made sent blood rushing between his legs, he had spent most of this ride hard as stone and trying to hide his condition.

“Shall we stop for lunch?” Penelope twisted to look back at him.

“Yes.” He muttered, grateful to get off the bony nag they were riding. He felt bad for the mount, she looked like at any moment, she might fall over dead. Reining the horse to the side of the road, he stopped in a copse of trees. Dismounting he turned and lifted Penelope from the saddle. He lead the old mare towards a patch of grass, tying her to a near by tree. Turning he found the Penelope had wasted no time, laying out a stretch of cloth, and now pulling out hunks or bread and dried meat for their afternoon meal. He sat and stretched out next to her, watching as she set food before him.

“I am impressed,” He began, “I have never met such a competent woman before.” She stared at him, chewing a piece of meat, confusion coloring her face.

“I was trained well good sir.” Penelope stated a little indignant, “Besides, while most women would be in a twittering heap over this rather odd arrangement, I strive to rise above and face this without fear. Besides, don't you find this all a little fun? I have always wanted to experience an adventure!” Penelope smiled mischievously.

Johnathan sat stunned for a moment, before his face split in a wide smile and he barked out a booming laugh. He clutched his belly as he rolled back, laughing hard and loud. Penelope watched shocked at this sudden outburst, her ears flaming with embarrassment at the realization that he was laughing at her. Slowly that embarrassment turned to irritation, then grew to full on anger at his righteous attitude, and open mocking of her words. It was several minutes before his laughter subsided and he stole a merry glance at Penelope, only to stop short in his humor.

“Penelope, are you okay?” He asked, concerned. Penelope sat glaring daggers at him before raising her arm and punching Johnathan, square in the face. He sat dumbfounded, he had only ever been punched once, at Eton, by a boy a year older. He response to that hit, made sure that no one else attempted such a mistake again, that is until now. In a flash he grabbed Penelope, she froze, staring up at him, fear in her eyes.

“You are going to pay for that!” He growled before pinning her with his body.

“Wait, Johnathan… please, I am sorry!” she pleaded, her eyes fearful. Johnathan moved his legs to either side of her, pinning her arms. He raised his hand and swiftly brought it back down, pressing his fingers into Penelope’s collar bone.

Startled for a moment Penelope started to shake with laughter as Johnathan proceeded to relentlessly tickle her. She wiggled free from his body, and lunged, tackling him back, but before she was able to get a jab in, Johnathan flipped her beneath him. His body stretched over the length of hers.

They paused like this, breathing heavily, eyes alight with laughter. Johnathan’s gaze drifted down to Penelope’s lips, staring intently. Without thought her tongue swept across her lips, wetting them. Johnathan lowered his mouth, pressing his mouth gently to hers. Penelope responded immediately, raising her head to press her lips back to his. Her mouth opened, and his tongue swept inside. Penelope could feel warmth pooling between her thighs, her n*****s tightened as she rubbed the turgid peaks against Johnathan’s chest. Johnathan moved to press closer to her body, which was made easier by her boy clothing. She could feel the hard length of him pressing against her feminine core.

To their left, the old mare stamped it’s hoof and shifted nervously. Johnathan raised his head, glancing at their surroundings. He watched the horse prance around, possibly sensing danger. He quickly pushed himself up, leaving Penelope feeling cold and unsatisfied, her heart pounding breathing ragged. Johnathan held his hand out to help her to her feet, seemingly unaffected by their short encounter.

“We have to go.” He stated thickly and headed for the horse while she quickly cleaned up their luncheon.