Page 28 of In Scandal with the Duke
She smiled. “How unusual. I somehow got the impression dukes were puffed up prigs who expected women to always be a model of decorum and propriety.”
“They only expect it of some women.”
“Is that to say you do not see me as a lady of quality?”
“I see you as a woman who is not afraid of life but wants to reach for all that it could offer. I would never judge you for it but help you find it.”
Fascinated, she took that single, improper step closer, the hem of her gown swirling over his boots. “How would you help me?”
“There is a life in the city that you have no knowledge of. A life of freedom and revelry.”
“A life that you, as a duke, know.”
“A life that every man knows.”
“Ah,” she said softly, “I forgot these ridiculous expectations of propriety are only expected to be maintained by us ladies. What do you get from being this generous?”
“Perhaps I get to enjoy life through you.”
“Enjoy life?” Elizabeth laughed. “You are aduke. I daresay you could wave your hand, and whatever it is you want, you shall receive.”
“Not everything.”
“Is there anything you have ever wanted that you prevent yourself from having?”
“Yes.”
Astonished, she said, “What?”
Something heated shifted in his eyes before his expression closed. “We digress, Elizabeth.”
Oh. “You … you want me.”And he is holding back his interest.
“How fearless you tread.”
“I know,” she said, loving that she could be herself with this man and had no fear of censure or judgment. “I no longer have the hope of marrying in my heart.”
He seemed surprised. “Are you certain?”
“Yes.” Her heart shook violently underneath her breast. “Since the other night, five different men asked me to dance. I refused all except one.”
“Your refusals will not be viewed favorably.”
“My aunt informed me a lady is never to refuse a partner for it will invite speculation and judgment. Everyone who approached me has seen me at other balls. They cared not to ask me then or that I stood on the sidelines without a partner, enduring pitying glances. Now that everyone knows I am an heiress, invitations have poured in, and now I am eligible to dance.”
He veiled his eyes briefly with his long, dark lashes. “Have you formed new plans?”
“Yes.”
“Permit me to enquire about them.”
After a brief hesitation, she said, “I wrote to my father and informed him I would be returning home at the end of the season. Until then, I mean to have fun … with you.”
There was a hint of something hard … almost intimidating about his handsome visage. “A risky proposition. Tread carefully, Elizabeth.”
“Oh?” she drawled provocatively, mimicking his earlier action by placing her finger under his chin, tugging him forward. “Afraid to be my lover?”
His eyes widened, and a thrill surged through Elizabeth.
