Page 33 of A Duchess Bound
“Many ladies are interesting and kind.”
Gerard nodded, conceding the point. “But I wantthisone,” he said. “There is something about her that I like, something I cannot quite find the name for.”
“And does she return your interest?”
“I think so.”
Lady Everleigh lowered her embroidery and stared at him in disbelief. “Youthink? How can you be unsure?”
“I have given her until Saturday to tell me if she wishes to engage in an affair with me, and I am uncertain how she will answer me.”
Lady Everleigh arched an eyebrow. “Why would you do something like that?”
“What do you mean?”
She laughed. “I mean, why would you give her time to consider the decision? That is unlike you. Usually, you want an answer at once. Why is this lady different?”
He hesitated. “She came to me. That makes her different from most.”
“I fail to see how that would factor into your decision.”
Gerard sighed deeply. “She is not as easily taken by my charms as some. She is not a naive, young miss.”
“A widow?”
“A spinster.”
Lady Everleigh’s expression grew thoughtful. “Hm.”
“I want to be certain that she wants this,” Gerard said, “and I suppose I thought that the wait would make the victory sweeter.”
“If it is a victory,” Lady Everleigh said dryly. “Someday, you are going to meet a lady who simply is not taken with you, my lord.”
“I fear it might be this one.”
“And so, you have returned to your old haunts,” Lady Everleigh said, smiling sympathetically. “In what? The hopes that I will encourage your pursuit of this young woman?”
“Honestly, I have no answer.”
“Well,” Lady Everleigh said, “I have a suggestion for you, but I doubt you will like it.”
“Oh?”
“I think it is time that you begin considering options for a bride.”
“You are right. I do not like that suggestion.”
Lady Everleigh set aside her embroidery and clasped her hands in her lap. “I would not call you a friend.”
“Nor would I you.”
“But I enjoyed our time together, and I feel that I know a great deal about you. More than you likely want me to.”
Gerard snorted. “I doubt that, my lady.”
She arched an eyebrow. “Shall we find out? Humor me.”
“As you wish.” He took a sip of tea. “What grand insight have you gained into my character?”
