Page 26 of The Undesirable Duke
Samuel grinned at Lady Lillian, and they shared a moment that made Samuel believe that she was not referring to her brother, but to herself, and he discovered that he felt the same, that he would not mind living closer to Lady Lillian.
“Your brother told me that you and he are much alike. Is that true?”
Lady Lillian tilted her head to the side and a lock of golden hair brushed her shoulder.
“I do not know what Your Grace means?”
“He mentioned that you are outspoken and persistent, even more so than he is.”
“My brother flatters me, and he is not wrong. But unlike my brother, I enjoy reading.”
Samuel smiled brightly.
“Delightful. What have you been reading of late?”
“I have been enjoying the works of Shakespeare, but my most recent book is a novel called Pride and Prejudice. It is rather good and very well written.”
“That is an Austen novel, is it not?”
“Your Grace knows of her?”
“Indeed. My father had quite an extensive collection of books in his library, and after his passing, I took it upon myself to continue to grow his collection.”
“Father has been allowing me to grow my collection in the upstairs drawing room. Perhaps after dinner, I can show Your Grace.”
Lord Timothy scoffed.
“Dear Lillian. I am certain that the Duke does not want to see your silly little collection of novels.”
“They are not silly. They are wonderful literary works.”
“I would love to,” Samuel said, much to everyone’s surprise.
“Perhaps not,” Lady Welsford said firmly. “It is already enough that His Grace was invited for dinner. I cannot allow you to be in the upstairs drawing room without a chaperone.”
“Mother-”
“It is settled, Lillian.”
Lady Lillian nodded and lowered her gaze. Her mother’s firm response was somewhat unfair, but Samuel understood that Lady Welsford did not wish her daughter to be alone with him, especially because of the rumors around Town.
Throughout dinner Samuel listened to Lord Welsford and Lord Timothy as they engaged in conversation with him, responding appropriately. The ladies at the table did not speak much, apart from Lady Welsford’s occasional comment. Lady Lillian kept mostly to herself, although Samuel could see that she had many things on her mind. He certainly hoped that he was one of those things.
“How long will you be staying in town?” Lord Welsford asked.
“Well, Lord Timothy invited me to spend Christmas with your family, and I believe that I shall return to Cornwall in the new year. Perhaps even sooner if my business here is concluded,” Samuel answered.
“Your Grace, may I ask a question?” Lady Lillian asked suddenly.
“Lillian, I am certain that His Grace does not wish to be bombarded with questions,” her mother warned.
Samuel raised his hand calmly.
“It is alright, my Lady.” He turned to Lady Lillian and nodded. “Of course, Lady Lillian.”
“Is Your Grace’s visit to Town due to my brother’s invitation solely, or does it have anything to do with the rumors about Your Grace?” Lady Lillian inquired, astonishing both her parents and her brother.
“Lillian,” Lady Welsford warned. “This is not a suitable topic of conversation. It is quite improper, so I would appreciate it if you were to stop, right this instant.”
