Page 48 of A Duke But No Gentleman
“Do not sulk, Norgrave,” Tristan said, his expression betraying his annoyance.“The land has been in the hands of tenants for more than a decade.I invited Imogene to join me so I could look the estate over before I rent it again.”
“How convenient the lady was available on that particular day,” his friend drawled.
Norgrave turned away so he did not see Tristan take a furious step toward him or Imogene’s silent plea for him to halt as she divided her attention between the two men.With his back to the couple, the marquess nodded.“And a very cozy arrangement, indeed.I am positively jealous.”
Since his words were closer to the truth than anyone wanted to admit, Tristan glared at his friend.“Come along, Imogene.We need to feed Norgrave before he decides to test his sharp teeth on my arse.”
Chapter Fourteen
The minute the butler had announced the Duke of Blackbern was standing in their front hall and was requesting to speak privately with the Duke of Trevett’s elder daughter, Imogene had forgotten about the letter she was writing and headed for the door.
“If you hope to catch that particular duke, I suggest that you strive not to appear so eager,” her mother said, not even glancing up from her sewing.
“Yes, Mama.It is good advice,” she said, deciding flattery was the best course to soften her mother’s opinion toward Blackbern.
Imogene had not told anyone—not even her marriage-wary duke—but she intended to marry him.The last few weeks, she had demonstrated to Tristan that she was the perfect mistress; now it was time to show him that what he really needed was a duchess to fill his house with love and laughter.
She also had to convince her mother.
“I will pass along your regards to Blackbern,” Imogene said, pretending not to hear the disgruntled sound the duchess made in her throat when she disagreed.She quietly shut the door and headed downstairs.
Tristan had his back to her when she descended the staircase.His attire suggested he had plans to travel.This was not a social visit.
“When are you leaving?”
He turned at her solemn question.His possessive gaze inspected every inch of her.It gave her hope that he would return to her.“Good afternoon, my lady.You look quite fetching in that dress.It puts color in your cheeks.”
“I thought that was your favorite task,” she teased.
“Unfortunately, I will have to delegate the pleasurable task to Norgrave and your other suitors.”His demeanor was formal for the benefit of anyone who might be eavesdropping, but she noted the apology in his eyes.“I have neglected some important estate matters and they can no longer wait.”
“How long will you be gone?”she demanded, resisting the urge to make him feel guilty over leaving her.
“Four days.Maybe longer.”Tristan bent his head near her ear.“I shall miss you.”
Imogene nodded, struggling not to cry.“Have a safe journey, Blackbern.”Before he could step away, she kissed him on the cheek.“I love you.”
He straightened and stared at her as if he could not quite trust his hearing.She swallowed the lump in her throat and the expanding pain in her chest when he did not echo her declaration.It was unfair to demand something he could not offer her freely.
To prove that she could walk away from him, she smiled at him.“If I get betrothed, I will write you so you can return for the wedding.”
Content that she had had the last word, she turned on her heel and walked to the stairs.Her foot had not touched the third step before Tristan had caught up to her, snatched her off the stairs, and kissed her hard enough that she would feel his mouth on hers an hour later.
“I will challenge any man who offers to marry you,” he said, the violence in his eyes contradicting the gentleness of his touch.“If you care for any of these simpering fools, you will wait for my return.”
He stalked off, not even interested in her response.
Imogene brought her fingers to her lips.Suddenly she grinned and her mood lightened.His threat was not the declaration she longed for, but he had days alone to improve on it.
***
Norgrave sought out Imogene as soon as he learned of Blackbern’s departure.
Imogene’s face warmed with affection when he entered the drawing room.“Lord Norgrave, how kind of you to pay us a visit!”She extended her hand, and he was pleased he had a reason to touch her.
He bowed over her hand.
“Lady Imogene,” he murmured for her mother’s benefit.“Your Grace, I trust you are well?”
