Page 66 of If the Duke Dares
Instead, he made a sound like an owl, hooting several times. The noise drew her attention, and as her gaze settled in his direction, she walked straight toward him.
Acton’s heart thundered as she neared the tree behind which he was stationed. When she was close enough, he whispered, “I’m here, behind the tree.”
She found him a moment later. “Are you supposed to be an owl?”
“It was all I could think of to get your attention. And it worked.”
“It did indeed, though I don’t think an owl hoots with such intensity.”
He smiled, glad that he could at last flirt with her without incurring her wrath. “They might if they were trying to attract a beautiful, captivating female owl.”
“Is that how you see me?” she asked, and he knew the question was genuine. Little lines marred her forehead. “Or is this just something you say when you meet a woman alone in the dark?”
His smile faded. “I thought about that as I was standing here—I mean, my being here. I nearly left, but then I saw you come outside, and I was unable to move.”
“Do you mean that too?” she whispered.
“With every fiber of my being. I know you’ve no reason to believe me. And you’ve every reason to think I’ve done this a dozen times, all with the goal of seduction.”
“Only a dozen?” she teased, which helped him relax. He’d become very tense. Or nervous. This moment was unlike anything that had come before.Shewas unlike anyone he’d ever known. She stepped closer to him, so that they nearly touched. “Is seduction your goal tonight?”
“I just wanted to see you. Alone. The way we used to be.”
“When I constantly refused your help, and you couldn’t help but flirt with me?”
He grinned. “How did I manage to win you over?”
“I could say it was when you rescued me from that brigand. It is awfully hard to dislike a gallant hero. However, I think it was the rats that endeared you to me. It was the first time I truly saw you as a person. Not a rake or a duke or a rogue.”
Her words stoked the desire that had been swirling through him all day. No, longer than that—since they’d first kissed. “But I am those things,” he said quietly. “Or at least I was. Except for the duke part. I’m afraid I’m stuck with that.”
She searched his face. “Is that how you feel? Do you feel trapped as a duke?”
“If I said yes, I think that would make me sound like an ungrateful wretch. And no, I don’t. It’s just…I’m not sure I’m doing it…right? My father had high expectations, but he died suddenly, and I realized there are so many things I don’t know.”
“Such as?”
Acton lifted a shoulder. “How to persuade my peers to join with me in certain causes. I find I am often in the minority when I speak with others about issues, especially in the Lords. My father and I didn’t discuss such things, at least not specifically. I think he would probably not care for some of my views. For instance, I support expanding the rules on who may vote. Many of our elections are corrupt, and I would like to see reform.”
He’d become rather wrapped up in his confession and now noticed that she was staring at him, her mouth slightly open. “Did I say something wrong?”
She shook herself gently. “On the contrary, I am shocked but glad to hear such things. I’m sorry you feel as though your father didn’t prepare you or wouldn’t approve of you. I know that’s not what you said, but it sounds as though that may be what you fear. I certainly know what it’s like to not have a parent’s approval. Not approval, exactly… I know what it’s like to have their pity, to understand that they find you lacking.”
Anger spiked through Acton. “Why on earth would you deserve that?”
“Because I’m not as pretty or as graceful as my sister.”
Acton interrupted her, feeling like an ass. “Your sister! How is her ankle? I’m so sorry I didn’t ask right away.”
“It’s all right. Her ankle is fine.” Persephone appeared troubled. “A pair of young ladies we’ve known for years gave her the cut direct and laughed at her. Pandora did not take it well. She doesn’t want to go out again.”
“Who are these young women?” Acton demanded. “I will ensure they aren’t invited anywhere.”
Persephone laughed lightly. “You sound like my aunt. You are so kind to take up for Pandora, but I’m not sure it will help.”
“It will make me feel better. Won’t it do the same for you? And Pandora?”
“Probably. You must do whatever you think best, but I don’t believe ruining two young women socially is the answer.”
