Page 27 of Romanced By the Orc

“We are friends, are we not? And shall we remain so as we support one another’s ventures in this alliance?”

“We should both take every advantage of this match, Daisy,” Albion said in his mesmerizing baritone. “And our friendshipshall grow all the stronger for it as we get to know one another better.”

While Diana owned no desire to live in a city different from her sister’s ever again, deep in her heart, she still longed for new experiences and feared she might never have another. And that, she was certain, was near the same as death when it came to one’s soul.

“I do want to get you know you better, Albie,” Diana said. “And your homeland. And your family as well.”

Her fiancé—and how extraordinary to think of him as such—tilted his head winningly

“Do you remember the lady who accompanied Dunc and me to Lady Bellingham’s garden party? I believe you mentioned spotting the two of them together?”

“Your brother seemed smitten.”

His pitch rose once more to the tone she was accustomed to hearing from him in public. “Deuces if Dunc didn’t propose! Though I love him dearly, he’s a hopeless grouse. I never thought he would marry. Blast it all if it didn’t take me by surprise. And she said yes! Can you imagine?”

“Countess Jessup seems like a fine woman,” Diana said.

“Countess. Quite. I shall tell you the story behind it all soon enough. It is an astounding turn of events.”

“I welcome the chance to hear it.”

“Would you do me the honor of accompanying me to the ceremony, lovely one?”

“Oh!” Diana’s heart thumped madly. Thoughts raced through her head, vying for attention. Primarily, what would the Orcan family make of another son’s involvement with a human woman?

Usually, she considered trust a quality to be cultivated and earned over time. Yet she trusted Albie. He would not have invited her if he thought any trouble would come of it.

“I happily accept, but this shall be a new experience for me. What should I wear? What should I bring?”

“Orcan functions are always rather subdued affairs,” he offered. “Even those meant to serve as celebrations. And particularly those that involve my brother. But I think you will find elements of romance in our customs, for all their practicality.”

A subtle change, a slight narrowing of his mouth, and renewed focus in his eyes once more promised the passionate version of Albion—one who would break free from the amicable persona he wore like armor in Society. She caught the fragrance of his cologne mingled with the salty masculinity of his natural scent, a combination she suspected could drive her mad.

Diana dipped her spoon one last time into the thick glacé, casting a glance in Isaac’s direction. He had finished his ice in due order and now lounged under a tree before the quiet horses, looking for all the world as though he might sink into a nap.

“I can’t stay overly long,” Diana said,“lest we set tongues wagging. But let’s meet again to tend to the details and timing of our ceremony. Perhaps after your brother’s wedding.”

“Come to think of it, I’ve not had the pleasure of viewing the relics inside the British Museum.”

Diana clutched her hand to her chest in a mock swoon. “That must change at once. I live nearby. It shall be most convenient to show you the collection.”

“Then you shall guide me through your history? I could not ask for more.”

“Trust I do not do so solely from the kindness of my heart. I expect you to serve as my guide through Orcan history and culture as well. Understand I have an abundance of questions.”

“You are intent on interrogation, madam?”

“I trust you can handle it,” she replied, pleased with her saucy tone.“We know so little of the Hidden Realm.”

“By design, I assure you. I only hope that what you learn of Orcan culture doesn’t frighten you.”

“What could possibly frighten me? After living among theton?”

“Is this what the young gentlemen of thetoncall a proper courtship?”

“I’m not sure. Such gentlemen do not lack cheek.”

Albion extended his hand. She shook it tentatively, liking the feel of the smooth kid leather gloves and the look of her hands, in his.

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