Page 11 of A Duke for Hire

“Indeed,” she agreed.

Seraphina nodded toward the woman playing the piano as they danced, and as Hugo followed her line of sight, he saw Theo’s eyes grow wide. Her fingers kept perfect time on the keys, but her head turned to follow them as though she had seen a ghost.

“I believe she is trying to tell you something now,” he murmured on a turn.

Seraphina glanced once more toward Theo, who was indeed mouthing something.

“I am sure she is just praising your acting skills,” Seraphina replied, “They really are quite exemplary. My father does not give me much spending money, but I assure you, all of this week’s allowance shall be going to your brilliant act.”

Amusement filled him as he continued to lead her through the dance, now knowing for sure that some sort of game was afoot. He just had to figure out its rules.

“Is that so?” He mused, turning her again with an elaborate move. “Well I am humbled that you think so.”

She giggled, genuinely this time, and the sound made his lips twitch into a smile.

“Did you study acting as a child?” She asked, “Or were you born naturally with the gift of pretending to be others?”

“I suppose it came naturally,” he played along, “And what of you? Do you like to act?”

“It is not my favorite pastime,” she whispered, her brows drawing together for an instant. “But I must do what is necessary. My mother is…quite forceful with her ideas of me.”

“And what are these forceful ideas?” He asked.

Seraphina glanced around, as if making sure the other dancers were far enough off not to hear, then pressed herself closer. The soft warmth of her figure immediately sent a shot of arousal through him- a strange and rare circumstance. He liked this woman close.

“She will force a scandal if I do not marry in good standing soon,” Seraphina whispered to him.

He picked the faint tone of terror in her soft voice.

“That is not something you want?” He asked, “Even if it did lead to a suitable marriage?”

“Not in the slightest,” Seraphina answered, lines of tension springing up on her forehead. “I am not as foolish as to believe I shall have a love match, but that does not mean I am willing to trick someone into marrying me. But…if I made myself more desirable somehow. Say, by having a handsome noble dance with me, then perhaps such extravagant measures won’t be forced on me.”

“Ah.” He understood now, and smiled at the plot.

“You are a clever lady, then. But do you think dancing will solve everything?”

“No, silly,” she laughed softly, “But dancing leads to conversation. Conversation leads to interest, and hopefully the urge to call on me, despite my reputation. If my mother sees that I can meet potential husband’s this way, she will not force me to take more drastic measures.”

“And you think I am the man that will help?” He asked. “I must say, this is quite the bold plan, Miss Seraphina.”

More questions popped into Hugo’s head as they continued to dance. Who was this woman? What was her reputation? Surely it could not be as bad as his.

“Bold or desperate,” she laughed, looking warmly up to his eyes, “I am not sure. “But I am thankful you are here.”

“Well, I suppose I am happy to help,” he stated, pulling her close. She fit against him like one puzzle piece into the next, though no puzzle ever had those delicate curves or that alluring warmth.

“However, a lady like you should not need to go to such lengths. You are as beautiful as you are elegant. Your sense of humor is quite refreshing, and you seem most kind. Not the type of kindness propped up by stiff, societal manners, but genuinely kind. That is rare.”

Seraphina smiled at him as another blush rose in her cheeks.

“You are not being paid to flatter me,Your Grace,”she replied, “Though I cannot say it is not appreciated.”

“What else do you appreciate?” He asked, his comfort growing. “Do tell as I am most curious.”

“Seraphina,” a voice whispered.

“I was hoping you would be kind,” she went to him, obviously not hearing her name being called, “But you have gone above and beyond. You have no idea how nice it is to hear a man speak to me without condescension. How I wish you truly were a noble. Then perhaps I could convince you to marry me instead.”

---