Page 30 of Duke of Bronze
Fisher appeared, his usual composure utterly ruined by the unmistakable smugness radiating from every inch of him. Worse, he was waving a paper in the air like a harbinger of doom—or, more accurately, scandal.
"They have done it again, Your Grace," the valet announced with entirely too much relish.
Colin merely arched a brow. "Be more specific, Fisher. Society is always doing something again."
"A fresh issue ofThe Mayfair Gazettehas been released," Fisher declared, his eyes alight with mischief. "And you, Your Grace, are once again the subject of its finest work. Yesterday's promenade with Lady Anna is the headline."
Colin was unimpressed. "You appear far too pleased about this, Fisher. I ought to dismiss you on grounds of excessive enthusiasm."
"Perish the thought, Your Grace. It is my solemn duty to ensure you remain apprised of all notable events—especially when they concern your esteemed self."
Colin let out a short laugh despite himself. "A pity your loyalty is wasted on mere gossip sheets."
"No shame in serving one's master with the latest intelligence from society," Fisher countered, puffing his chest in a pantomime of exaggerated pride.
Colin shook his head, amusement warring with exasperation. "Your unflagging dedication to the art of eavesdropping is duly noted."
Fisher grinned but said nothing.
Colin leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers absently against the armrest. "Speaking of outings, I may already have an idea for our second one."
Fisher's posture straightened in evident anticipation. "Oh? Have you settled upon a grand gesture, then?"
"Something close to it," Colin said, steepling his fingers. "I believe I shall take her to the lake."
Fisher nodded approvingly. "A fine choice, Your Grace. The scenery alone shall be enough to charm her."
Colin scoffed, though his lips twitched. "You seem rather assured of the outcome."
"One must always approach an endeavor with confidence," Fisher declared sagely. "Particularly when one intends to win."
Colin eyed him. "You speak as though I am entering into battle."
"Are you not?" Fisher's expression was all innocence, but the glint in his eye betrayed him. "If I may say so, Your Grace, Lady Anna does not seem the sort to be easily won."
Colin chuckled lowly. "No, she is not."
And damn him if that was not half the appeal.
Fisher, looking thoroughly pleased with the discussion, gave a slight bow. "I shall begin the preparations at once, then."
And with that, he disappeared, leaving behind the latestGazette, as if deliberately tempting Colin to peruse its contents.
He did not.
Instead, he stared at the doorway for a moment longer than necessary, his thoughts still lingering on her.
No sooner had Fisher exited than the butler reappeared with a fresh announcement.
"His Grace, the Duke of Giltford, to see you, Your Grace."
Colin leaned back in his chair, one brow arching in faint amusement. "Send him in, then."
Colin barely glanced up from his desk when Giltford walked in, already weary of whatever mischief his friend had undoubtedly come to deliver.
"I heard you had a most diverting time with Lady Anna at Regent's Park yesterday," Morgan remarked, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
Colin barely resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Tell me you are not reading the gossip sheets, as well."
