Page 36 of Ravished By the Beastly Duke

Eveline shot her a warning look.

“Indeed,” the Duke answered. “And I apologize for that. I hope your journey was uneventful?”

“It wasn’t, albeit the roads leading up to the estate could have been smoother,” Ava muttered, picking up her cup.

“I will have my men see to it promptly,” the Duke assured her, nodding his head.

Eveline watched him to see if he took any offense to her sister’s words, but he looked sedate.

“Your Grace?” Stella asked shyly.

He turned to her.

“I was wondering…” Her sister’s eyes were downcast, and she blushed. “Do you have any friends who are unattached?”

Ava nearly choked on her tea, while the Duke’s eyes widened before he laughed softly.

“Indeed, I do,” he answered. “Why do you ask?”

“I am unmarried, and I will debut soon,” Stella explained. “It might be easier for me to secure a match now rather than wait till my debut.”

The Duke laughed softly, while Ava reddened with embarrassment.

“Stella, this is not a proper conversation,” she scolded.

“I am only trying to improve my chances before I make my debut,” Stella argued stubbornly. “Besides, will not you be happy if I also wed early enough?”

“Still, Stella. You should not behave thus.”

“It is all right,” the Duke interjected. “I do not mind answering her questions.”

“You will forgive me if I do not permit you to teach my sister improper conversation,” Ava snapped.

“It is not entirely improper conversation, but I understand your reservations,” the Duke relented. “Still, I can answer to a certain degree that is not utterly improper. I do have unattached friends, but they aren’t people I would recommend to you.”

Stella pouted, folding her arms. “Why?” she asked.

“Let’s just say I do not think your sister will approve very much of their manners.”

“That is a shame.” Stella frowned.

“Indeed. I shall return to my work, then,” the Duke announced, rising to his feet. “It was a pleasure to meet you both. Enjoy the rest of your visit. Perhaps your next visit would be longer, and we shall be better acquainted.”

“Indeed, Your Grace.” Stella nodded with a bright smile. “I still want to peruse your library.”

“You are welcome to do it any time.” The Duke smiled at her.

He bowed and exited the room.

Eveline turned to Ava with a sharp look. “Why were you so rude to him?” she asked.

“I wasn’t rude to him,” Ava scoffed, taking a delicate sip of her tea.

“You weren’t rude?” Eveline sputtered incredulously. “You nit-picked on everything he said, and that was only when you chose to answer.”

“I was only treating him as I deemed fit.”

“Why?” she protested. “It is not fair for you to treat him so when he hasn’t been anything but kind to me.”

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