Page 31 of Stolen By the Duke of Ice
A dreamy sigh was heard, causing Peter more irritation than he would normally feel. He considered all that he learned about the Hill Family in the few hours that he spent with them. After his initial astonishment, he saw their biggest flaw: that they relied too heavily on love. And that would lead them to no place good. He knew this. To let love conquer you in all aspects, as this family seemed to have, was not only foolish—it was dangerousas well. He had learned that from his own father, from the wreck he’d turned into upon the death of his wife.
“I shall answer on her behalf.”
Beside him, he felt Dahlia stiffen, but he felt it his duty not to let these falsehoods circulate. His voice was even though his unsmiling mien drastically lowered the others’ excitement. He looked at each person who raised the question as he gave them the answers.
“No, we were not secretly in love; we hardly knew each other in fact. And no, I had most definitely not been following Lady Dahlia; I just happened to be there with my friend on business with one of the solicitors in the area when the hijackers attacked.”
“No, Lady Dahlia’s novels were most definitely not a secret code between us. There was no need for us to communicate with each other in the first place.”
“We have agreed that marriage would be the wisest course of action to assuage the scandal. Children are not relevant in the arrangement.”
“There will no longer be a next novel. Lady Dahlia has agreed to that.”
“The wedding shall happen, and it shall be in four days’ time.
“And finally, yes. She will no longer be the only unmarried female of her age group in this family.”
He looked around the group who had remained silent upon hearing him.
“I hope I have answered all your questions.” He turned to Dahlia, who had stayed quite still since he spoke. “Would you like to add anything else, Lady Dahlia?”
“No, Your Grace, you have answered all questions quite clearly.” She did not look at Peter. “There can be no misinformation and misunderstandings now.” Her voice rose in pitch as the sentence ended. “Excuse me, I must—I must see to something.”
Her hands covered her mouth as she hurried out of the room.
Dahlia’s family looked at each other, but no one could look at him. Peter heard them mumble various excuses and move away to join other groups. The hum of conversation resumed shortly, leaving Peter to himself for the first time that night.
He had glimpsed her face as she left the room. Dahlia’s eyes were wet. Peter knew he should not feel bad, for indeed, he did nothing but answer her family’s questions with complete honesty. With answers that Dahlia herself was aware of. And yet, there he sat, feeling like a brute. He glanced up to see the Dowager Marchioness watching him.
Those green eyes.
He stood up and quickly left the room, aware that everyone watched his exit.
Why was she crying? From the very first, she knew that Peter meant what he said when stated that theirs would be a marriage of convenience. Had he not laid down the reasons, discussed the plans, and even on occasion asked for her approval? He answered all her family’s ridiculous questions with correct answers. In his own words, he had protected her welfare. Then why did she feel as if he had betrayed her?
Because Peter has finally given everyone confirmation and proof of what they all say and think about me.
Running deeper into the gardens, Dahlia let herself cry. How unlucky she was to have been born into a family who naturally found love when she could not secure it for herself. She allowed herself another moment before willing the tears and the self-pity to stop.
How shall I ever return inside now? My face will be red and blotched. Perhaps, I can have Benson summoned. I can head home first and have him return for Mama and Papa.
She nodded to herself. With her plans secure, Dahlia turned to leave. So surprised was she to see another person there—let alone Peter—that she nearly jumped.
“What is it? What do you want?”
“I am—I am unsure.”
“If you wish to leave, please go ahead. Consider your duty fulfilled in meeting my family.”
“Dahlia, I am under the impression that I have done something wrong.”
“You? Do something wrong? Why that would be impossible[ you are always right, Your Grace.”
“Dahlia.”
“What?”
“We are to be married.”
