Page 44 of The Duke's Spinster

He cupped her chin and asked, “What do I need to do? Bring you chocolates again?”

“You may always bring me chocolates.”

“I shall bring you pale pink peonies, chocolates, and all the ices you desire.”

He was smiling. A large, guileless smile. As if he really did want to marry her. As if he weren’t just doing the honorable thing.

It wasn’t love. At least, not that she could detect. But her sisters had made some observations, so it wasn’t entirely implausible…

“I need time to think.”

“Take all the time you want.”

She sighed in relief.

“Wait. I take that back. Take some time. One and a half days at most, if it pleases you.”

It did not please her. “Why one and a half days?”

“I’d like to know your answer before the fencing tournament.”

“Why is that?”

“It will either fuel me in anger or fuel me in delight.”

A notable avoidance of the word love was not unappreciated.

He continued, “What would be the worst scenario is if I’m still in limbo awaiting your answer during the tournament. Liminal space is the least desirable space by the human race.”

“Ah…so it all comes down to fencing. I can’t say I disapprove of that sentiment. I shall give you my answer before the tournament.”

It was a good thing that Wesley had given her a deadline, else she could have spent countless days and weeks mulling over his question.

As it was, she knew the next day and a half were going to require every ounce of mental and emotional fortitude she possessed. So it was unfortunate that the man lying beside her left her so weak in the knees. That meant, first thing tomorrow, it would be time to rally the troops.

*

Before breakfast, Boudiccahad messages sent to her sisters to meet in her room. Joan and Nobi rushed in with concern wrought on their faces, while Mimi sauntered in with a smile.

“So…did you change?” Mimi asked.

Boudicca blushed.

“Good. So I was right?”

“Right about what?” the other two asked.

“The duke was here last night.”

“Oh my God, Mimi. Don’t you think that’s news for me to share?”

“He was here?” Mimi gasped. “Oh my God, oh my God, I was right?”

“You just said that,” Boudicca rolled her eyes.

“Yes, but I didn’t think it. It was a ploy to see if you would divulge the truth. And then you did. And he did come. And I was right.”

How annoying to have young sisters who were right at the worst possible times.

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