Page 71 of Married to a Frozen Duke
"Why not?"
"Because..." He paused, clearly searching for a reason that didn't sound ridiculous. "Because we just don't."
"Compelling argument."
They finished the meal in silence, the clink of silverware echoing in the vast room. Dessert was something sculptural involving sugar and fruit Ophelia couldn't identify. It was beautiful and tasted of nothing in particular.
"Would Your Graces care for anything else?" the butler inquired.
"No, thank you," Alexander said, and Ophelia shook her head.
They rose to leave, and Ophelia found herself walking beside Alexander toward the door.
"What do you usually do in the evenings?" she asked.
"Work. Read. Sometimes play billiards."
"Alone?"
"Generally."
"That sounds lonely."
"It's peaceful."
"Peaceful and lonely aren't mutually exclusive."
He looked at her with an expression she couldn't quite read. "What did you do in the evenings at home?"
"Read, mostly. Or listened to my brothers argue about something. Occasionally played pianoforte if no one was around to complain."
"You don't like playing for others?"
"Others don't like me playing for them. I'm competent, not gifted."
"Competent is sufficient."
"For a merchant's daughter. For a duchess?"
"For anyone."
They'd reached the staircase, and both paused.
"I should work," he said.
"And I should... what should I do?"
"Whatever you wish."
"What if I wished to explore the house?"
"Then explore."
"Would you show me?"
He looked surprised. "You want me to show you around?"
"Unless you have urgent work?"
