Page 35 of Impassioned
“I think that would be beneficial. And don’t apologize. I have been too busy, and perhaps I should not be. I should have accompanied you to the rout last night, and I should not have left.”
She hesitated a moment, her eyes locked on him with perhaps a glimmer of disbelief in their depths. “I had Evie at my side.”
Evie.Evangeline Renshaw. “You have become quite friendly with Mrs. Renshaw. I didn’t even realize you knew each other. I will pay more attention to your friends and acquaintances.”
She arched a brow at him. “Why? So you can decide if they are appropriate?”
His eyes widened briefly. “Heavens no, why would you think that?”
Her lips parted, and she glanced away. “My apologies. I am used to my parents dictating everything I did, including who I could become friends with.”
“I understand,” he said wryly. “My father voices his opinion on nearly every aspect of my life.”
“He still does that?” At his nod, she added, “Well, I’m…sorry. He should recognize you are your own man and don’t require his opinion—or approval—about anything.”
Her support lit something inside him, spreading an unfamiliar warmth. “Yes, he should.”
“To answer your question, Mrs. Renshaw and I have only recently become acquainted. I like her a great deal. She’s been very helpful, particularly with my new wardrobe.”
“Then I shall thank her. The gown you wore last night was stunning. As is your walking costume.” He glanced over her but didn’t dare look too long lest he start undressing her in his head once more.
“I was afraid you didn’t approve of my dress last night.”
He heard the uneasiness underlying her tone and regretted his behavior at the rout. “I was surprised by it.”By you.“I apologize if my comments made you upset or uncomfortable. You must wear what you wish.”
“Even if it displays too much flesh?” The question was dangerously close to flirtatious.
Constantine still couldn’t bring himself to flirt in return. Because what if she wasn’t being coy? What if she was genuinely concerned? He wanted to alleviate any apprehension she may have. “I trust you to dress appropriately. I cannot, however, promise not to feel a strong possession if other gentlemen feast upon the display.”
Possession.
Her attention dipped to his open neckline once more, provoking another flash of longing. “I’ll keep that in mind,” she murmured.
“I need to go change before my racing club meeting.” He said this in response to his state of undress and also to prompt himself to go. Strangely, that was proving difficult. “Afterward, I plan to call on my father to discuss your becoming Cassandra’s sponsor.”
Her red-gold brows rose. “Thank you.”
“You’re certain this is what you wish? You’ll have to attend a great many events, and my father will be watching to see how Cassandra’s Season progresses.”
She hesitated, and he glimpsed conflict in her expression. “Yes, I’m sure. I want to do it.”
“Very well. I’ll speak with him and let you know what he says this evening. Shall we dine together then? I will not be at Westminster since it is Wednesday.” His lungs squeezed as he awaited her response.
Exhaling, she smiled. “That would be lovely.”
He breathed a sigh of relief. Mayhap she wasn’t just seeking a child at any cost, and there was more behind her new behavior. “Excellent, I’ll look forward to it.” He stood aside and gestured to the door. “After you, my lady.”
“Thank you.” She didn’t move for a moment, then took a final glance at his exposed neck and left the study.
Perhaps there was hope for them yet. Another reason to move things along with the help of a tutor. Constantine would send a note to Lucien immediately.
Chapter 9
Sabrina sat across from Evie at a round table in her drawing room. Her butler had placed a plate of biscuits and a pot of tea between them. As Evie poured their cups, Sabrina pulled an invitation from the Phoenix Club from her reticule. She’d received it earlier that day but hadn’t mentioned it to Aldington. It wasn’t that she’d planned tonottell him, but she’d been nervous about his reaction. Plus, with the Grayson situation, the issue hadn’t come up.
She’d been too distracted. Pleasantly so.
“Is that what I think it is?” Evie asked, setting the pot down.
