Page 57 of Her Infuriating Duke

Christopher let out a long sigh. “Why? The two of you seem more than capable of entertaining yourselves.”

“Perhaps, but it is still rather rude to ignore your dining companions.”

“How am I ignoring you?”

“You have barely said two words to poor Amber!”

“Amber, do you feel neglected?”

“Of course, she does!” Felicity answered before Amber could even open her mouth. “She’s absolutely devastated. How can you be so cruel?”

“Felicity, it’s quite all right. If he wants to be anti-social, then I don’t see why we shouldn’t let him.”

“Actually taking my side? A sure sign I must be the one in the wrong.”

“So you’re going to actually enjoy our company?” Felicity lit up.

“Yours? I suppose, but Amber’s,” he sighed. “You ask too much.”

“You don’t need to worry,” she assured. “I feel the same way.”

“Now, I feel insulted.”

“You should. The insult was intended.”

Felicity laughed. “You tell him, Amber. We are far too good to want his company.”

“Then why did you say I was neglecting you?”

“Because it was true, but that doesn’t mean we enjoy your company.”

“Then allow me to return to enjoying my own company. I would hate to infringe on your time together.”

“But then we are right back where we started!”

“And is that such a bad thing?”

“I should think so!”

“And why is that?”

Amber sighed, shaking her head. “He truly doesn’t understand the importance of good manners, does he?”

“It would appear not. I do apologize for my brother’s behavior.”

“It’s quite all right. I know you shouldn’t be held responsible for his poor behavior.”

“What a relief! I would hate for you to lump me in with him.”

The pair continued to banter and giggle throughout the meal. Christopher couldn’t help but notice how natural they seemed together.

He shook the thought from his head. He just needed to get his thoughts in order. Amber was on a mission. Their banter was just part of that.

It was a game. He knew that.

It wasn’t real.

Wasn’t to be trusted.

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